Sailors, Defence Minister, ladies and gentlemen,
Today is a big day for Navy Patrol Boat Squadron, the whole Liepāja and Latvian Naval Forces.
Today we unveil your unit’s flag.
The squadron itself was established already in 1999, as part of the costal defence fleet, and it became a separate Patrol Squadron in 2004.
But, as we know, a military unit is complete only when it has its own flag.
Marine salvage and rescue operations are the core responsibility of Patrol Boat Squadron. It monitors shipping safety in Latvia’s territorial waters.
You have made a considerable progress since your early days. Squadron is equipped with new and modern vessels. You have saved many people from trouble. Shipping in Latvian territorial waters is safe under your watchful eye, and you help contain spillages and pollution whenever you can.
Dear sailors and officers,
Every soldier and unit hold their flag sacred. It leads them into the battle and must be protected at all cost, even the price of one’s own life.
There is a lynx on your squadron’s flag. It symbolises agility and speed. There is also a shield and a sword, which symbolise relentless tenacity. And there is sea with three white foaming waves that depict past, present and future.
Dear navy men,
As Ukrainians are fearlessly fighting for their independence and their state and Russian invaders continue to commit war crimes, we must not forget that we may have to defend our country, our people and our democracy at any time. We, the Latvian people, are confident that National Armed Forces, including Patrol Squadron, are ready to meet the task.
Your flag says, ‘Guarding the sea as our duty and honour demands.’
I hope you will hold this noble flag high above your heads and will always remain loyal to its motto.
This flag is your navy squadron’s soul and spirit. It embodies your fighting spirit and loyalty to Latvia.
God bless Latvia!
