Lieutenant Koyan Chamitha of the Sri Lanka Navy’s elite Special Boat Squadron (SBS), who made national history by becoming the first Sri Lankan to successfully complete the United States Navy SEAL training program, passed away in the early hours of today at the Walisara Wardroom.
He was in Colombo at the time to take part in the upcoming Independence Day parade.Lieutenant Chamitha earned international recognition after completing the gruelling 14-month U.S. Navy SEAL training program, widely regarded as one of the toughest military courses in the world. With an attrition rate exceeding 75 per cent, the program tests candidates’ physical endurance, mental resilience, leadership, and tactical proficiency.
Upon completion, he was awarded the prestigious SEAL Trident pin, marking a historic first for Sri Lanka and bringing immense pride to the Sri Lanka Navy and the nation. His achievement was previously reported as a major milestone for the Special Boat Squadron, highlighting the growing professionalism and global standing of Sri Lanka’s elite naval forces. Fellow officers described him as a highly disciplined, dedicated, and inspirational figure within the SBS, whose success motivated many young naval personnel to strive for excellence.
According to initial information, Lieutenant Chamitha is believed to have passed away while asleep, with a possible heart attack cited as a preliminary assumption. However, authorities have stated that the official cause of death has not yet been confirmed, and further details are awaited.Lieutenant Chamitha hailed from Gampaha, where his family resides, and was an old boy of Bandaranaike College, Gampaha. News of his sudden passing has sent shockwaves through the Sri Lanka Navy, particularly within the Special Boat Squadron, where he was regarded as one of its most outstanding officers.
The Sri Lanka Navy and the wider defence community are mourning the loss of a trailblazing officer whose service, achievements, and dedication will be remembered as a defining chapter in the history of the SBS.
