The Sri Lanka Air Force was awarded with the President's Colour in the year 1976 in recognition of the dedicated service rendered to the Nation during its brief existence of 25 years. Since then the role and the functions of the Sri Lanka Air Force has expanded many fold and today, The SLAF is heavily depended upon with the other two services to safeguard the National Sovereignty.

This onerous duty entrusted to the Sri Lanka Air force is fulfilled through the dedication and commitment by the Bases and Formations formed there under. Contributions from these Bases and Formations over the last 50 years have been of immense value to the Air Force and to the Nation and deems merit recognition similar to that of the colours awarded to the Air Force in 1976.

On the occasion of SLAF Golden Jubilee, SLAF Base Katunayake and No 1 Flying Training Wing Anuradhapura were honoured to receive the President's Colours as the pioneer Base and Flying Formation of the Air Force.