The United Nations Peacekeepers' Medal Awarding Parade of Sri Lanka Air Force 10th Aviation Contingent deployed in Bria, Central African Republic was held glamorously today (22 October 2025). The Force Commander of MINUSCA, Lieutenant General Humphrey Nyone took the salute during the ceremony as the Chief Guest and reviewed the parade. 

The Governor of the Fertit Region, The Head of Office of Sector East, The Sector Commander of Sector East, The Joint Task Force Commander for Bangui, fellow Contingent Commanders and other Military/Civilian dignitaries of MINUSCA were present at the ceremony.

The Chief Guest was received by the Contingent Commander of the 10th Sri Lanka Aviation Contingent, Group Captain Uditha De Silva upon his arrival. The Air Liaison Officer of the Contingent, Wing Commander Krishan Gunarathne 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 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 specifically in Zemio, Birao, Amdafok, Bangassou and Rafai areas.

The 10th Sri Lanka Air Force Contingent was deployed in MINUSCA on 06 December 2024 and comprises of 23 Officers and 93 airmen. The 10th Sri Aviation Unit has flown over 1200 Hours averaging more than 120 hours per month by carrying out Air Transport Operations, VIP flights, Medical and Casualty Evacuations and Armed Reconnaissance Missions whilst transporting over 450 Tons of cargo and carried over 2800 passengers. Moreover, it has conducted 24 CASEVAC/ MEDEVAC flights, including five night CASEVAC missions during past eleven months.