The successful completion of the No.53 Drill Instructor and No.62 Gunner Instructor Techniques courses was marked recently at SLAF Combat Training School Diyatalawa. The event saw the awarding of pace sticks, lanyards and canes to highly skilled and proficient instructors, under the patronage of the Provost Marshal of the Sri Lanka Air Force, Air Commodore Chaminda Wickramaratne.

A total of two instructors qualified to receive the distinctive Pace Sticks, while thirty-five airmen earned their Lanyards and Cane, equipping them to take on new roles as instructors in the Air Force.

The courses spanned a demanding duration of 4 to 5 months, focusing on equipping personnel with expertise and knowledge to excel as instructors and mentors. The comprehensive curriculum emphasized the development of leadership, discipline, and instructional abilities, while providing exposure to various indoor and outdoor experiences.

Addressing the ceremony, Air Commodore Chaminda Wickramaratne expressed appreciation to the trainees for their commitment during the strenuous training period. He highlighted the significance of these courses in fostering a culture of discipline and excellence within the Air Force. Commending their dedication to self-improvement, he emphasized the importance of continuously enrolling in future courses.

The closing ceremony witnessed exceptional skill demonstrations by the newly qualified instructors, showcasing their proficiency in various areas. The demonstrations included obstacle course clearance, Air Defence Gun Drill, Drill Display, as well as training aids developed by the trainees themselves.

The event was attended by Commanding Officer SLAF Combat Training School Diyatalawa, Air Commodore Vajira Senadeera, Officer Commanding Training, and all the Officers and other ranks of the School.

Special Award Winners
Best All Round Drill Instructor
Corporal Sampath HBKK

Best All Round Gunner Instructor
Leading Aircraftman Abeysinghe YMAMGJB