The inaugural conference marking the official establishment of the SLAF Operations Air Veterans’ Association (SLAFOAVA)—a recognized body comprising former senior and junior officers of the SLAF Operations Air Branch/Trade—was held with great pride on 12th September 2026 at the "Danthure Hall" within the Ex-Servicemen's Institute premises in Colombo.

The event was graced by distinguished special invitees, including Wing Commander R. H. Hulangamuwa(Retd), current President of the Air Force Ex-Servicemen's Association (AFESA), Air Vice Marshal Hemantha Soysa (Retd), and former AFESA President, Air Vice Marshal Elmo Perera (Retd).

Attended by 35 distinguished veterans from the Operations Air discipline, the inaugural meeting formally adopted the constitution of the association and elected its pioneering Executive Committee and Board of Patrons:

Board of Patrons

Patron: Wing Commander R. H. Hulangamuwa (Retd)

Vice Patron: Air Commodore S. C. K. Pallawela (Retd)

Executive Committee

President: Air Vice Marshal M. W. T. I. De Silva (Retd)

Vice President: Mr. T. T. H. Jankeer

Secretary: Wing Commander K. D. I. D. S. Saparamadu (Retd)

Assistant Secretary: Mr. M. A. Sagara

Treasurer: Mr. L. W. S. Gunaratne

Assistant Treasurer: Mr. W. A. N. Wijetunge

Chief Organizer: Mr. J. R. Fernandopulle

Committee Members:

Mr. P. K. K. S. Panduwawala

Mr. T. A. K. Chitrasena

Mr. A. L. A. N. Senaratne

We extend our warm congratulations and best wishes to the newly appointed office bearers on this proud milestone, which unites all veterans across the Operations Air sector.