by Staff Writer 03-03-2019 | 7:12 AM
Colombo (News 1st) A special ceremony to commemorate the 68th Anniversary of the Sri Lanka Air Force took place at SLAF Base Camp in Hingurakgoda this morning (March 2). This ceremony was presided over by President Maithripala Sirisena.
The President's awards were presented to the SLAF's No 7 Helicopter Squadron and the SLAF's No 8 Light Transport Squadron for the service done to the nation.
Speaking at the event President Siriseana said that our forces are blessed with the qualities of heroism, honesty, dedication and resilience.
He said "I would like to commemorate the service you have done towards the survival and territorial integrity of the nation during the past 68 years. You have been a part of great history".
The SLAF's No. 7 Helicopter Squadron was launched on March 23rd, 1996. The current Commander of the SLAF Air Marshal Kapila Jayampathy was the former commander of this squadron.
The President also declared open the Air Tatoo and Carnival of the SLAF to commemorate its 68th anniversary.
The President visited the Air Force Training Center. He was presented with a book on training.
The Head of State also launched a new website during the event.