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

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