As in World War I, many Royalists, all former Cadets, served in World War II from 1939 to 1945. Amongst the Royalists decorated for overseas service, was Capt. (Dr.) A. Thenuwara of the Royal Army Medical Corps, who served in the Middle East and Malta under the British Army. He was awarded the “Africa Star”. Major A. N. Weinman and Wing Commander W. G. L. Wambeck had the distinction of serving in both wars.
From 1942 the school population was uprooted from their traditional home, and Royal College was scattered to some bungalows in Turret Road and Glendale at Bandarawela. Major L. V. Gooneratne broke a long link by taking over the Battalion in 1923, first as a Lieutenant and then as a Captain and a Major. He gave his heart and soul to the College Battalion. A burly man, his stirring, stentorian commands on the Parade grounds still ring in the ears of those who knew him. He was much loved by the pupils of his era and he will not be forgotten at the College.