We are deeply saddened by the sudden and tragic loss of Aircraft Engineer and Flying Officer Peshan Warnasooriya from the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF), who was an alumnus of St. Anne's College.

The tragic incident occurred when the trainer aircraft carrying Peshan crashed shortly after takeoff from the Sri Lanka Air Force Academy in China Bay, Eastern Province. Also on board was Wing Commander Tharindu Herath, an alumnus of our neighboring Maliyadeva College, who faced the same fate as Peshan.

He was an old boy from the 2015 batch and joined the Sri Lanka Air Force just 2 years after leaving the College. He also completed his higher education at the General Sir John Kotelawala Defence University.

Peshan, as an Air Force officer, soared the skies above to keep us safe on the ground. His memory will forever remain in our hearts, just as the vast sky above.

May the brave souls of our dear Peshan Warnasooriya and Tharindu Herath from Maliyadeva Rest in Peace and attain the Supreme Bliss of Nibbana. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families and loved ones of both as we offer our final tributes.