The Cradle of Heli Pilots Celebrates Their Silver Jubilee
9:02am on Tuesday 24th September 2019
No. 7 Helicopter Squadron, fondly known as the cradle of the Rotor wing pilots, celebrated its Silver Jubilee on 23 September 2019 at SLAF Base Hingurakgoda. The squadron, originally established as No. 401 Squadron on 23 September 1994 with Bell 212s and Bell 206s, was re-designated No.7 Squadron on 23 March 1996.
Since its inception, No.7 Squadron contributed immensely during both war and peace, flying day and night. It is and has been a training squadron for primary and secondary pilot training, air gunner training, war exercises training for tri-forces and police, and aircraft maintenance training. During the Humanitarian operation, the support given by the No.7 Squadron was unparalleled, while it has always been at the forefront in supporting the civilians during times of national calamity. For the remarkable service it had rendered to the nation, No.7 Squadron was awarded with President Colors this year.
Marking the occasion of its twenty fifth anniversary, a parade was held at the squadron which was reviewed by Commanding Officer of No. 7 Squadron, Wing Commander PDSS Gunawardane. Speaking on the occasion, he expressed his sincere thanks for the contribution given to uplift the glory of the Squadron and wished all the personnel and their families, the very best in their future endeavors.
Further, a get-together was held at the Hingurakgoda Base where all serving personnel of the squadron participated. Group Captain NHDN Dias, the Base Commander of SLAF Base Hingurakgoda graced the occasion as the chief guest.
During the celebrations, they remembered all those who have contributed towards the success of the Squadron with deep gratitude and paid tribute for fallen heroes of No. 7 Squadron.
A ‘Bodhi Pooja’ was also done in Bosath Temple as a traditional in seeking blessings from the Triple Gems for the wellbeing of the future activities and its’ personnel.
Since its inception, No.7 Squadron contributed immensely during both war and peace, flying day and night. It is and has been a training squadron for primary and secondary pilot training, air gunner training, war exercises training for tri-forces and police, and aircraft maintenance training. During the Humanitarian operation, the support given by the No.7 Squadron was unparalleled, while it has always been at the forefront in supporting the civilians during times of national calamity. For the remarkable service it had rendered to the nation, No.7 Squadron was awarded with President Colors this year.
Marking the occasion of its twenty fifth anniversary, a parade was held at the squadron which was reviewed by Commanding Officer of No. 7 Squadron, Wing Commander PDSS Gunawardane. Speaking on the occasion, he expressed his sincere thanks for the contribution given to uplift the glory of the Squadron and wished all the personnel and their families, the very best in their future endeavors.
Further, a get-together was held at the Hingurakgoda Base where all serving personnel of the squadron participated. Group Captain NHDN Dias, the Base Commander of SLAF Base Hingurakgoda graced the occasion as the chief guest.
During the celebrations, they remembered all those who have contributed towards the success of the Squadron with deep gratitude and paid tribute for fallen heroes of No. 7 Squadron.
A ‘Bodhi Pooja’ was also done in Bosath Temple as a traditional in seeking blessings from the Triple Gems for the wellbeing of the future activities and its’ personnel.
