IMO recognises four Sri Lankan naval personnel for their bravery at sea

Navy Commander Vice Admiral Nishantha Ulugetenne presented certificates of commendation under the ‘IMO Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea – 2021’ to four naval personnel, during a special ceremony held at the Auditorium of Naval and Maritime Academy, Trincomalee recently.

The certificates of commendation were issued by the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) taking into account the bravery of these individuals.

Each year, the International Maritime Organisation recognises individuals of the International Maritime Community who have responded beyond their call of duty, showing exceptional bravery, seamanship skills and courage in the face of great adversities at sea.

Four naval personnel of Sri Lanka Naval Ship (SLNS) Ranarisi were recognised by IMO for their bravery in rescuing crew members of fire-hit ‘MT New Diamond’.

Following the directives of the Navy Commander, SLNS Ranarisi was deployed by Sri Lanka Navy, remaining true to an international obligation of a coastal State, with a view to rescue crew members aboard the fire engulfed vessel in eastern waters on 3 September 2020.

As a measure of recognition for the commendable act carried out in special circumstances, SLNS Ranarisi Commanding Officer Commander K.R.G.R.S. Rantenna who carefully planned the entire rescue mission against all odds, as well as Lt. K.G.A.S.M. Wijerathne, Leading Engineering Mechanic D.L.K. Mudiyanse and Able Seaman W.G.G.U. Senarathne who volunteered to bring the injured third engineer from the fire engulfed ship back to SLNS Ranarisi even disregarding the risk attached to their personal lives, were bestowed with the acclamation by IMO.

The event was held adhering to COVID-19 protocols and it was participated by Commander Eastern Naval Area Rear Admiral Sanjeewa Dias, senior officers from Navy Headquarters and Eastern Naval Command and a limited group of naval personnel.