Medal Awarding Parade Honours 9th SLAF Contingent's Commitment
to Minusca at Central African Republic
November 04, 2024
The prestigious United Nations Peacekeepers' Medal Awarding Parade of Sri Lanka Air Force 9th Aviation Contingent deployed in Bria, Central African Republic was held glamorously yesterday (30 October 2024). Brigadier General Simon Ndour, the Force Chief of Staff of MINUSCA took the salute during the ceremony as the Chief Guest and reviewed the parade.
The Sector Commander of Sector East and other Military/Civilian dignitaries of MINUSCA were present at the ceremony.
The Chief Guest was received by the Contingent Commander of the 9th Sri Lanka Aviation Contingent, Group Captain Asanka Ratnayake upon his arrival. The Air Liaison Officer of the Contingent, Wing Commander Nishantha Udagedara commanded the parade, which was followed by a traditional "Kandyan" dancing performance with drum percussion and a drill display.
The Chief Guest expressed his profound appreciation with respect to the exceptional level of professionalism and unwavering commitment of the members of Sri Aviation in executing the MINUSCA mandate. Further, he praised Sri Aviation's crucial contributions to the MINUSCA mission, specifically emphasizing their courage and bravery displayed in overcoming severe hardships and mission critical situations in Birao, Amdafok, Thiringoulu and Bambouti areas.
The 9th Sri Lanka Air Force Contingent was deployed in MINUSCA on 04 December 2023 and comprises of 21 Officers and 89 airmen. The Contingent has contributed to MINUSCA by carrying out Air Transport Operations, VIP flights, Medical and Casualty Evacuations and Armed Reconnaissance Missions whilst transporting 2483 passengers, 340,044 kg of cargo and logging over 1100 flight hours during last eleven months.
Courtesy - www.airforce.lk