Dear soldiers,
Honourable Chief of the Defence Staff,
Ladies and gentlemen,
National Armed Forces celebrate their 100th anniversary this year. 100th anniversary of Lāčplēsis Day is only a week away. That is why I am deeply pleased and delighted to announce today’s promotion to the highest military rank of general of Latvian army. 29 years ago, when Latvia regained its independence, rebuilding of the National Armed Forces was one of the top national priorities. Then, and especially now when the global security situation requires us to be ‘highly vigilant’, smart, dedicated and skilled army officers are indispensable to Latvia. We now have our own professional and well-equipped army and strong National Guard that has proven its competence and capabilities. National Armed Forces are moving in the right direction and today’s promotion is yet another proof of that.
Brigadier General Egils Leščinskis has demonstrated high level of professionalism and determination throughout his military career and service to Latvia and its people. He began his ascent as a regular member of the National Guard Special Forces. 27 years later Brig Gen Leščinskis became the Commander of the National Guard and Latvia’s representative to NATO Supreme Headquarters in Mons, head of the Training and Doctrine Command and National Defence Academy. In 2004, he joined the Latvian unit of multinational division headquarters in Iraq. His track record is a vivid example of how powerful our NAF officers are.
I would like to thank and congratulate the wife of Brig Gen Leščinskis, Laila, and both of his daughters. Thank you for the support without which this outstanding achievement of the National Armed Forces would not have been possible.
I wish Egils Leščinskis all the best in his further military career and day-to-day service which contributes to better national defence capabilities and promotes the overall development of capabilities of the National Armed Forces.
All Latvia is proud of you! I have no doubt you will do whatever is necessary to ensure that our motherland is protected at all times.
