PASSING OUT CEREMONY OF DRILL INSTRUCTOR COURSE 133

The Drill Instructor Course 133 of the Sri Lanka Military Academy culminated in a grand Passing Out Ceremony on 26 May 2025. The event marked the successful completion of a rigorous and transformative training programme aimed at developing the excellence in military drill and discipline.

Fifty nine Senior Non-Commissioned Officers (SNCOs) from 22 Regiments of the Sri Lanka Army - participated in the course, which was conducted from 29 January to 27 May 2025. The course is meticulously designed to instill the principles of Discipline, Respect, Integrity, Learning, and Leadership, aligning with the ethos represented by the acronym “DRILL”.

The event was graced by Major General M J R S Medagoda RSP USP ndc psc IG, the Commandant of the Sri Lanka Military Academy, who attended as the Chief Guest. He was accompanied by the Deputy Commandant, Wing Heads, Senior Officers and Officers of the Sri Lanka Military Academy.

During the ceremonial parade, the newly qualified Drill Instructors (DIs) were formally recognized and awarded their Drill Instructor Badges, signifying their professional readiness to lead and instruct. In his address, the Chief Guest emphasized the critical role of drill in fostering discipline, enhancing leadership, and reinforcing the proud traditions of the military. He encouraged the DIs to apply their newly acquired theoretical and practical knowledge in shaping the next generation of soldiers.

To commend exceptional performance, several awards were presented during the ceremony:

Army Commander’s Challenge Pace Stick for First in Order of Merit: Sgt Nandasena KA - 6 Sri Lanka Light Infantry

Champion Shield for Best Instructional Skills & Personal Drill: Sgt Nandasena KA - 6 Sri Lanka Light Infantry

Champion Shield for Theoretical Assessment: S/Sgt Udayanga KWMRS - 1 Commando Regiment

Best Section Drill Instructor: Sgt Chathuranga KYD - 9 Gajaba Regiment

Best Platoon Drill Instructor: S/Sgt Gamage GGIK - Sri Lanka National Guard

These accolades reflect the hard work, precision, and dedication exhibited by the participants throughout the demanding course.