Fourteen civilians from Angulana have been recognized by the Sri Lanka Navy for their role in rescuing 11 naval personnel after a fast attack craft encountered distress off the western coast in August.
The Sri Lanka Navy has formally acknowledged the efforts of 14 residents from Angulana who assisted in a rescue operation following an emergency involving Navy Fast Attack Craft P 4447. Vice Admiral Damian Fernando, the Navy's Commander, presented letters of appreciation to the civilians during a ceremony held at the Western Naval Command Headquarters in Colombo on August 18.
The incident occurred on August 15 when the fast attack craft ran into difficulty at approximately 11:40 a.m. while returning from a routine patrol near Angulana. The rescue effort involved coordination between Navy personnel, other authorities, and members of the local fishing community. According to the Navy, the swift response from civilians played a key role in ensuring the successful rescue of the 11 naval personnel.
Vice Admiral Fernando highlighted the civilians' actions as an exemplary demonstration of civic responsibility and humanitarian concern, noting that their prompt intervention underscored the value of community cooperation during emergencies. Rear Admiral Jagath Kumara, Commander of the Western Naval Area, attended the recognition ceremony alongside senior and junior naval officers from Navy Headquarters and the Western Naval Command.
Following the incident, one naval officer remains unaccounted for, with search operations continuing. The 11 rescued personnel are reported to be receiving medical treatment and are in stable condition.
