A total of 441 new sailors from the A-2026 batch formally joined the Bangladesh Navy after completing their bootcamp training at the BNS Sher-e-Bangla parade ground in Patuakhali on Thursday. The oath-taking and graduation ceremony featured a parade reviewed by Navy Chief Admiral M Nazmul Hassan, who also distributed awards to top-performing recruits. Md Shahriar Tutul received the Navy Chief’s Medal for overall excellence, while Md Samiul Islam Shakil and Md Kader Mia earned the Comkhul and Sher-e-Bangla medals respectively. Mos Marzia Akter was recognized as the best female sailor with the Pritilata Waddedar Medal.

In his address, Admiral Hassan paid tribute to fallen naval heroes of the Liberation War and highlighted ongoing modernization efforts, including the addition of helicopters, unmanned aerial vehicles, a hydrographic survey ship, and an anti-drone system. He commended the Navy’s role in supporting civil administration, ensuring security of key installations, and assisting during the 13th national election.

The Navy Chief urged the new sailors to uphold integrity, discipline, and loyalty while working alongside the Army and Air Force to safeguard national sovereignty.