Fifty-two newly trained officers joined the Bangladesh Navy on Saturday in a formal commissioning ceremony at the Naval Academy in Patenga, Chattogram.
The event, known as the President’s Parade, marked the end of three years of training for the cadets. It also marked the beginning of their official service in the military.
General Waker-Uz-Zaman, the Chief of Army Staff, attended the ceremony and received the parade salute. He also delivered a speech to the graduates.
“You must always stay prepared,” he said. “The sea is a key trade route. Its safety depends on you.”
The Sword of Honour went to Midshipman Mehedi Hasan Mridha for top overall performance during training.
The graduating group included 44 midshipmen and 8 direct entry officers. Among them were 8 women and 4 foreign cadets.
General Waker urged officers to lead with integrity and defend the nation in all conditions.
The Bangladesh Naval Academy by the Karnaphuli River trains future naval officers. Its annual President’s Parade marks a major milestone.
Family members, military officials, and guests watched the ceremony from the stands.
The officers are expected to take on roles in operations, logistics, and command assignments. For most, this is the first step in a long career at sea.
They stepped off the parade ground with more than just new ranks — they carried new duties too.
Their time in training is over. Their service has begun.
