US trains Sri Lanka Navy divers on underwater UXO recovery

The United States Navy recently concluded a three-week training session in Trincomalee to train Sri Lanka Navy divers in underwater Unexploded Explosive Ordinance (UXO) recovery.

Members of US Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit (EODMU) 5 conducted the Underwater Unexploded Explosive Ordinance recovery training program for the Sri Lanka Navy Divers from 22 August to 8 September in Trincomalee.

The training program helped the Sri Lanka Navy Divers to enhance their knowledge and capabilities, the Navy said. The US team also donated a new underwater camera, GPS units and related equipment which are very much useful for Underwater Explosive Ordnance Disposal mission.

Commander Eastern Naval Area, Rear Admiral Travis Sinniah graced the conclusion ceremony as the chief guest. Commanding Officer US Navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 5 Commander Benjamin Cipperley joined the closing ceremony distributing certificates among the participants who completed the course successfully. The occasion was attended by a host of officers and sailors from the Eastern Naval Command. Mementoes were also exchanged symbolising the significance of this occasion.