Egils Levits
Valsts prezidenta Egila Levita sveiciens Lāčplēša dienā

Dear Latvians,

Dear citizens of Latvia,

Lāčplēsis Day marks the greatest victory in the history of the Latvian army. Every year, on 11 November, we pay tribute to Latvian soldiers who set out to defend the newly founded Latvian State in a War of Independence.

Our army had to fight the War of Independence in very harsh and even hopeless conditions at times. Latvia was devastated, ravaged by outbreak of diseases and hunger. But the dream of free Latvia had been fulfilled.

We, too, must remain strong, take care of each other and face the current challenges together in a united front. I invite everyone to light Lāčplēsis Day candles at home this year. Let us commemorate these victories alone and together with our loved ones. Let us pay our respect to those who fought for our Latvia.

Congratulations of Lāčplēsis Day everyone!