Formation Day Of SLAF Unit Koggala
This is one of the most beautiful establishments of the SLAF. Surrounded
by the calm and fascinating Koggala Lake and the Indian Ocean. This
Unit performs an important role in VVIP and VIP arrivals to the Southern
region and in addition provides remarkable facilities for SLAF
personnel with Chalets and Transit rooms situated in a calm and quiet
environment.
This unit posses a long and proud
history originating during the period of the 2nd
World War. After the ‘Pearl Harbour’ attack in 1941, the Royal Air Force
decided to establish this Air Field as a launching pad for
reconnaissance missions over the South/ East Indian Ocean considering
the tactical and operational importance of the area. In March 1942 No.
413 Sqn (Canadian Sqn) of the Royal Air Force was sent to Sri Lanka with
04 Catalina flying boat. One of these aircraft captained by
then Sqn Ldr Leonard Birchal managed to detect the Japanese enemy fleet
while they were en route to Sri Lanka.
After
Independence in 1948, the airfield was abandoned by the RAF.
Later on 19 Oct 1984 SLAF Koggala was re-established under the command
of Flt Lt AD Paul and has been commanded by 21 Commanding Officers to
date.
On the 19 October 2011, the Commanding Officer
and all ranks of SLAF Koggala celebrated the formation day. Along with
the formation Day celebrations, the unit arranged a shramadana campaign
to clean the Amathayana School premises at Meepe in addition to the
cleaning work of the Pradeshiya Sabha Road
Habaraduwa.
On 19 Oct 2011, after the Formation Day
parade a tree planting campaign, a special sports event, an all Ranks
Lunch and a Beauty culture programme were held. To end the celebrations
at night a musical and entertainment event was held.