Honourable Minister for Defence, honourable Chief of the Defence Staff,
dear young officers of the Latvian army, ladies and gentlemen,
Latvian State is built upon firm statehood aspirations of our nation. Our will to form our own state and defend it, to determine our own future. That is what the first paragraph of the Preamble of Satversme, our constitution, says.
Latvians have always been ready to defend their people, land and state. Our riflemen, those who fought in the War of Independence, Latvian army soldiers and post-war partisans all did that. Despite the odds, many followed their heart and fought because they were loyal to Latvia.
Latvia is free and independent today. We have our own state and we continue to shape and strengthen it together as much as we can.
More than a hundred years after the formation of Latvian army, our officers and soldiers continue to stand on guard for our land, people and values.
Latvian National Armed Forces assure the security of our country and every person living here.
I am fascinated by what Latvia has achieved in terms of security. Our armed forces continue to grow every day – troops and better skills and knowledge multiply. Our army is modern. It changes to be able to address new challenges. Our troops are respected by allies and our people. They have done well on international missions.
As more cadettes graduate from National Defence Academy, army gets more new officers in its ranks. Each academy alumni makes our defence sector stronger.
Dear young officers,
Congratulations on the higher education diploma. But this is not a regular university diploma. It is issued by an academy that gives professional skills and competencies and one of whose goal is to shape character and individuality. Only National Defence Academy can do that. It develops personal qualities required to lead others and be an excellent officer. Now you have these skills. You have outstanding professional and personal moral standards.
You succeed and follow prior generations of Latvian army officers. You have chosen this challenging profession despite the Russian aggression against Ukraine.
Russian invasion of Ukraine is a clear reminder of why we need our own troops that we can rely on.
We are supported by our NATO allies, who have arrived in Latvia to defend our country. The same way we are ready to defend them and other allies. We have already demonstrated that by fighting side-by-side in Afghanistan, Iraq and other hotspots.
Becoming an army officer is the noblest way to show your allegiance to your country. People will now turn to you for well-weighed and wise advice.
Rank of an officer is a major milestone. You and your dear parents should be proud about this serious achievement. But it also raises expectations placed on you. You are now considered leaders and expected to inspire the troops.
I am very proud about you, dear officers. I am confident that you will do your best to always keep Latvia, its people and land protected. Be strong and vigilant; be the best role model for your troops at all times!
I hope you all feel happy and proud of your place in the National Armed Forces. Congratulations!
