TRIUMPH IN THE BLUE SKY

Paratroopers are a critical and versatile element for military forces in modern warfare. The concept of airborne operations originated during World War II, where they descended into combat zones to disrupt adversaries and seize strategic objectives. They have evolved to participate in global conflicts and peacekeeping missions, showcasing their importance in joint and combined military operations. Hence, the Sri Lanka Army has given undue prominence to parachute training and is now equipped with skilled parachuters who are decorating the blue sky above Sri Lanka.

The “MNDF Basic Parachute Course - 4” commenced on 3 January 2024 at Commando Regiment Training School, Uva Kudaoya. Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, the Commander of the Army and Major General A C A DE Zoysa USP Hdmc Lsc, the Provost Marshal of the Sri Lanka Army and the Colonel Commandant of the Sri Lanka Corps of Military Police, along with 18 Maldives National Defence Force members and 14 members from the Sri Lanka Army, have successfully undergone a vigorous and extensive specialized Parachute Course at CRTS.

Soaring to a new height and displaying heroism as valiant superiors, Lieutenant General Vikum Liyanage RWP RSP ndu, the Commander of the Army, and Major General A C A DE Zoysa USP Hdmc Lsc, the Provost Marshal of the Sri Lanka Army, and the Colonel Commandant of the Sri Lanka Corps of Military Police have achieved a milestone in the blue sky by successfully completing a rigorous jump on 22 and 23 January 2024 at Uhana Air Force Base drop zone. During this dignified moment, following dignitaries also were presented as an independent witnesses:

Mr. M I Y Rahaman - Attorney at Law (District Court, Akkaraipattu)

Mr. M M P K Wijerathna - Attorney at Law (District Court, Ampara)

Mrs. K V Chandima Priyadarsdani - Attorney at Law (District Court, Ampara)

Dr. S Thisara Lakmal - Medical Officer (Anesthesia and ICU)

Dr. W G Saranga Niwarthana - Medical Officer (Anesthesia and ICU)

In a thrilling display of courage and determination, the Army Chief and the most Senior Officer of the SLCMP took the plunge into the exciting parachute jumping above the sky. This daring endeavor is not only showcases the personal bravery but also delivers a powerful message of inspiration for all subordinate officers that leaders should never halt challenging themselves, and it encourages others to move out of their comfort zones to take on challengers.

This outstanding achievement is a significant milestone in the chronicles of the Sri Lankan military history, as it marks the first-ever attainment by a distinguished individual holding the esteemed ranks of the Sri Lanka Army. Further, this triumph in the skies marks a significant chapter that symbolizes the heights one can reach through perseverance and a commitment to mastering new challenges.

While being associated with the Commander of the Army, Major General Clifford De Zoysa was showered with rains of courage and motivation, which pave the way for him to stand on new horizons and achieved the much-awaited, long-standing dream. At this memorable juncture, Major General Clifford De Zoysa took time to extend his deep hearted gratitude and appreciation to the Commander of the Army, Commander of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Colonel of the Regiment of Commando Regiment, Commandant and Chief Instructor of CRTS, Commanding Officer of the Parachute Training School - Ampara, Meticulous training team of versatile at CRTS and seasoned military professionals for their motivation, guidance and vigorous standards of excellent training.

The entire army has been illuminated by this historic moment and added a new chapter to the legacy of the military history of Sri Lanka. Moreover, the entire nation has been astonished by the unwavering commitment of the exemplary and charismatic military leadership of their Defenders of the Nations. All Officers, ORs of SLCMP, and the entire army joined hands to wish and offer praise to the supreme leaders for embracing challenges in the sky domain.