“After the restoration of Latvia’s independence, we created the Latvian National Armed Forces anew. Then and now, when the global security situation once again makes us wide awake, Latvia needs smart, purposeful, and skilled officers. The granted service ranks today prove the fact that our armed forces are developing in the right direction,” stated the President of Latvia.
“Being a soldier of one’s country is the supreme confirmation of patriotism. We are proud of you and your accomplishments because we know that you will do everything to protect our country, people, and land at all times,” stressed Raimonds Vējonis while addressing the audience.
At the ceremony in the Riga Castle, the President of Latvia granted the rank of Major General to Brigadier General Ivo Mogiļnijs and the rank of Brigadier General to Colonel Georgs Kerlins.
This year, a unique tradition has been restored in Latvia when a sword is awarded to the cadets of the National Defence Academy of Latvia becoming lieutenants. Upon the incentive of the President of Latvia, swords were also awarded to senior officers in the active service of the National Armed Forces: Lieutenant General Leonīds Kalniņš, Major General Ivo Mogiļnijs, Major General Andis Dilāns, Brigadier General Imants Ziediņš, Brigadier General Georgs Kerlins, Brigadier General Ainārs Ozoliņš, and Admiral of the Flotilla Ingus Vizulis in the Riga Castle today.
The President of Latvia thanked the family of every officer because support of the beloved is crucial both in daily work and in the darkest hour.
