NO. 7 HELICOPTER SQUADRON CELEBRATES 31st ANNIVERSARY
The No. 7 Helicopter Squadron located at SLAF Base Hingurakgoda, which asserts a glamorous history from 1994 to date, rendering 30 years of dedicated service to the nation, celebrated 31st anniversary yesterday (23 September 2025). The Squadron was initially established as the No. 401 Squadron on 23 September 1994, with Bell 212 and Bell 206 helicopters. Later on, it was re-designated as the No. 7 Helicopter Squadron on 23 March 1996.
Marking the occasion, the customary Working Parade was held at the squadron premises, which was reviewed by the present Commanding Officer of No. 7 Squadron, Group Captain Kanchana Liyanarachchi, followed by his address to the officers and other rankers.
Following the parade, a fellowship was held to commemorate the anniversary with all squadron personnel, along with several entertainment events. The Base Commander SLAF Base Hingurakgoda, Air Commodore Dinesh Jayaweera, graced the event as the Chief Guest.
In line with the anniversary of the No. 7 Helicopter Squadron, cleaning and sanctification programme was conducted at the surrounding area of the Hingurakgala Temple and Christ the King Catholic Church Hingurakgoda. These programmes were carried out under the supervision of the Commanding Officer with the participation of all members of the squadron.
In addition, a Bodhi Pooja ceremony was held at the Hingurakgoda Buddhist Centre, invoking blessings on all members of the No. 7 Helicopter Squadron and in remembrance of those who have sacrificed their lives. The event was participated by the all members of the squadron and was also marked by the notable participation of a large number of local residents.
Marking the occasion, the customary Working Parade was held at the squadron premises, which was reviewed by the present Commanding Officer of No. 7 Squadron, Group Captain Kanchana Liyanarachchi, followed by his address to the officers and other rankers.
Following the parade, a fellowship was held to commemorate the anniversary with all squadron personnel, along with several entertainment events. The Base Commander SLAF Base Hingurakgoda, Air Commodore Dinesh Jayaweera, graced the event as the Chief Guest.
In line with the anniversary of the No. 7 Helicopter Squadron, cleaning and sanctification programme was conducted at the surrounding area of the Hingurakgala Temple and Christ the King Catholic Church Hingurakgoda. These programmes were carried out under the supervision of the Commanding Officer with the participation of all members of the squadron.
In addition, a Bodhi Pooja ceremony was held at the Hingurakgoda Buddhist Centre, invoking blessings on all members of the No. 7 Helicopter Squadron and in remembrance of those who have sacrificed their lives. The event was participated by the all members of the squadron and was also marked by the notable participation of a large number of local residents.
