Daily Mirror - Print Edition

Anuj, rejected in Sri Lanka, makes it to US Army

02 Jun 2020 - {{hitsCtrl.values.hits}}      

By Darshana Sanjeewa Balasuriya 

Anuj Pujitha Gunawardena, who was rejected by Sri Lanka Army twice, is currently serving the Advanced Attack Helicopter Division in the US Army.  

In a Facebook post, Anuj said yesterday: “I wanted to join the army when I was 18. I went for an interview to join as a cadet officer, but was rejected because I did not have the required weight and chest size. However, due to my love for the uniform, I went to the same interview a year later only to be rejected for a second time. The interviewers laughed at me saying I should eat well and build my physique if I wanted to come back for another interview. On the third occasion, I applied to join the CID, but received a letter stating I would not be recruited without an interview. These continuous rejections discouraged me from applying for jobs in the security forces but since I have always loved to wear the uniform, I never gave up on my dream of joining the army. In the meantime, I had the opportunity to come to the US. One day, while I was studying, a group of army officers came to my school. I saw them talking to students about the possibility of being recruited to the army. I was also extended the invitation to join the US Army. My instant reply was ‘YES!’ Everything else from thereon felt like a dream.” 

 

 

  • Anuj is a past pupil of Ashoka College, Colombo and a graduate of the Colombo University 


Anuj had aced the written exam and passed the physical fitness test too! He is currently working as a high-tech helicopter repairman in the Advanced Attack Helicopter Division which handles the AH-64 Apache -- the most advanced multi-role combat helicopter in the US Army.  Anuj is a past pupil of Ashoka College, Colombo and a graduate of the Colombo  University. 

 

 


 

  • I wanted to join the army when I was 18. I went for an interview to join as a cadet officer, but was rejected because I did not have the required weight and chest size
  • I was extended the invitation to join the US Army. My instant reply was ‘YES!’ Everything else from thereon felt like a dream