A Legacy of Excellence: The Cadet Tradition at Prince of Wales College
Prince of Wales College in Moratuwa, Sri Lanka, is one of the most prestigious educational institutions in the country, known for its long-standing tradition of cadetting. This legacy is now being celebrated as the college prepares to mark two significant milestones: its 150th anniversary and the 125th anniversary of its cadet platoon. This article highlights the achievements of the cadets from 1966 to 1986, a period that saw remarkable contributions to the college’s reputation and values.
Celebrating a Rich History
The cadet platoon at PWC has always been a symbol of discipline, leadership, and national pride. In 1979, the college commemorated the 75th anniversary of its cadet platoon with a grand event that was attended by the Prince and Princess of Wales, students, and the people of Moratuwa. This celebration was one of the most memorable in the college’s history, marking the beginning of a long tradition of honoring cadet excellence.
By 2029, PWC will celebrate the 125th anniversary of its cadetting program, an achievement that few schools in Sri Lanka have reached. The cadets have consistently demonstrated passion, discipline, and commitment, inspiring new generations to uphold the high standards of the college.
The Role of Leadership and Training
Under the leadership of Principal M. E. C. Fernando from 1977 to 1986, the college achieved outstanding results in both academics and sports. Capt. Raj Fernando, along with Master-in-Charge officers such as Gilbert Fernando, P. Jayasekara, and Kalvin Perera, played a crucial role in maintaining the high standards of the cadet platoon.
The Platoon Sergeant was responsible for leading the cadets through rigorous training, which was essential for qualifying at the selection camp. This intense preparation ensured that only the most dedicated and capable students were chosen for the platoon, making it a highly competitive and prestigious opportunity.
Honoring the Heroes
PWC proudly remembers the heroes who gave their lives for the nation. These individuals include:
- Lieutenant Colonel Srimal Mendis (1982) – SL Army
- Admiral Clancy Fernando (1992) – Commander of the SL Navy
- Lieutenant Sumith Serasundara (1985) – SL Army (1983 Platoon)
- Group Captain Fizal Cazeer (1990) – SL Air Force
- Lieutenant Colonel Susantha Punchihewa (2000) – SL Army (1983 Platoon)
Their service continues to inspire all Cambrians, reminding them of the importance of sacrifice and dedication.
The 1983 Cadet Team
The 1983 cadet squad is remembered for their outstanding performance at the annual Hermann Loos competition in Diyathalawa. They won the Sports Trophy, securing their place in PWC history. Key members included:
- Uditha Costa – CSM, 3rd Battalion
- Srinath Fernando – Sergeant
- Susantha Punchihewa – L/Sergeant
- Thilak de Silva – Corporal
- Mahinda Weerasooriya – Corporal
- Lasantha Fernando – L/Corporal
- Bandula Fernando – L/Corporal
Many of these cadets went on to achieve senior ranks in the Sri Lanka Army, bringing honor to both the college and the nation.
Legendary Cambrian Cadets (1966-1986)
During this era, many cadets rose to prominence in sports, academics, and national service. Some notable figures include:
- Air Vice Marshal Shriyan Samararathna – J/Lance Sergeant (1967/68). Head Prefect (1971/72), Cricket Captain 1st XI (1971/72), Athletic Captain (1971), Manager, Sri Lanka National Cricket Team (2007/09).
- Lieutenant Colonel Srimal Mendis – RSM, 1st Battalion (1974), Sergeant (1973).
- Thilak Jayawardana – RSM, 1st Battalion (1975), Sergeant (1974), Head Prefect (1975/76).
- Eng. Hema Gunawardena – RQMS, 1st Battalion (1975), L/Sergeant (1974), Athlete. Academics: BSc Engineering / MSc Engineering – University of Surrey, UK.
- Pemlal Fernando – CSM, 1st Battalion (1976), Sergeant (1975). Cricket Captain 1st XI (1976/77), led PWC to victory in the Big Match against St Seb’s. Island-wide best bowler (1976). Scored 1,000 runs, Runner-up best all-rounder (1977). Coach Level II – Cricket Australia. National Coach – Thailand. First Class Cricket Coach – Bangladesh Premier League & Sri Lanka. Head Coach – PWC (Present).
- Lieutenant Manjula Fernando – CSM, 3rd Battalion (1978), Sergeant (1976).
- Rohitha de Mel – Sergeant (1977).
- Group Captain Fizal Cazeer – CQMS, 3rd Battalion (1977), J/Sergeant (1975).
- Eng. Air Commodore Ajith Abeyasekara – Sergeant (1978), Athletic Captain (1978). Academic: Civil Engineering – University of Moratuwa.
- Major Uraj de Silva – CSM, 3rd Battalion (1980), Sergeant (1979), Cricketer/1st XI, Athletic Captain (1979).
- Sampath de Silva – J/Sergeant (1976), Head Prefect (1980), Rugger Captain-1st XV (1980), Athletic Captain (1980), Cricketer/1st XI.
- WO II Devaka Pieris – Corporal (1980), J/Sergeant (1977).
- Commodore Sudharman de Silva – J/Sergeant (1979), Cricketer – W/Captain 1st XI (1983).
- Commander Chandana Meegahapola – Senior Cadet.
- Jagath Mahasen – Sergeant (1980), Head Prefect (1981), Soccer Captain (1980).
- Lieutenant Colonel Modestus Fernando – Senior Cadet, Rugger; Deputy Commissioner General of Rehabilitation. Academics: MBA (HRM) – University of Colombo.
- Geethaka Warnakula – RQMS, 3rd Battalion (1981), Corporal (1980), Rugger Captain (1980).
- Captain Gethsri Peris – RQMS, 3rd Battalion (1982), Sergeant (1981), Rugger.
- Major Janaka Malpahana – L/Sergeant (1981), Rugger Captain (1981), Athlete.
- Athula Mendis – CQMS, 3rd Battalion (1982), L/Sergeant (1981), Athlete, Rugger W/Captain (1982).
- Major General Arunashantha Liyanage – L/Corporal (1981).
- Dampriya Gunathilaka – Sergeant (1982), Leader – Cadet and Eastern Band.
- Uditha Costa – CSM, 3rd Battalion (1983), Sergeant (up to the Independence Camp 1983), First President Scout, Athlete. Academic: MBA (General) – University of Southern Queensland, Australia.
- Srinath Fernando – Sergeant (1983), brought the Sports Trophy (1983). L/Sergeant – Independence Camp (1983).
- Lieutenant Colonel Susantha Punchihewa – RQMS, 3rd Battalion (1984), L/Sergeant (1983), Deputy Head Prefect (1984), Athlete, Rugger.
- Brigadier Mahinda Weerasooriya – Sergeant – NCO Camp (1984), Corporal (1983).
- Thilak de Silva – L/Sergeant – NCO Camp (1984), Corporal (1983), Athlete, Cricketer/1st XI.
- Amarasiri Wijayasinghe – Sergeant (1984).
- Major General Rasika Fernando – Deputy Chief of Staff (2020), SL Army. Senior Cadet, Head Prefect (1983/84), Athlete, Rugger.
- Major General Gamini Sirisena – Senior Cadet, Cricketer/1st XI.
- Major General Suneetha Dunuwila – CSM, 3rd Battalion (1986), Sergeant (1985), Rugger.
- Major Thakshila Gamage – Sergeant (1986), brought the Leadership Trophy and Drama Trophy (1986). Athlete, Rugger.
- Major Channa Waduge – Senior Cadet, Rugger.
The Enduring Spirit of Cadetting
Cadets at PWC have always demonstrated remarkable versatility and courage, bringing honor to the college as soldiers, professionals, and leaders. With the strength to face challenges and the wisdom to make decisive choices, they stand as true reflections of the College spirit. Their passion and confidence continue to be shaped by the prestige and discipline instilled through College cadetting.