The Commander of the Sri Lanka Navy, Vice Admiral Damian Fernando has commended 14 civilians from Angulana for their assistance in rescuing 11 naval personnel following an emergency involving Navy Fast Attack Craft P 4447 off the western coast on August 15.
The Navy Chief presented letters of appreciation to the 14 civilians at the Western Naval Command Headquarters in Colombo today (18), recognising their contribution to the rescue operation.
The fast attack craft encountered distress at around 11:40 a.m. while returning from a routine patrol off Angulana. The rescue operation involved the Navy, other authorities and members of the local fishing community.
Vice Admiral Fernando expressed the Navy’s appreciation for what he described as an important act of civic responsibility and humanitarian assistance.
He said the civilians’ prompt response during the emergency contributed to the success of the rescue effort and demonstrated the importance of public solidarity during critical situations.
The Commander of the Western Naval Area, Rear Admiral Jagath Kumara, together with senior and junior naval officers from Navy Headquarters and the Western Naval Command, attended the ceremony.
Meanwhile, the Navy continues search operations for a naval officer who remains missing following the incident. The rescued personnel are reported to be receiving medical care and are in stable condition.
