Mr Minister of Defence, Honourable Commander, soldiers, dear guests!
Today is a big day not only for the School of Communications and the Training Command, but also for the entire Latvian National Armed Forces. Today you received the flag of your unit. A unit is complete only when it receives its own flag.
The School of Communications was founded on 15 May 1992. However, its origins go back a year earlier, when the Defence Forces took over the Defence Communications Base in Sigulda and began training liaison officers. You also have a succession with the Communications Unit of the Electrotechnical Division, founded in 1919.
Since 1991, when you started to work with old and simple equipment, the tasks of the School of Communications have changed radically. Computers, software and encryption technologies at NATO and European Union level became the part of communications speciality.
A lot of work has been done in these years. Successful modern communication technologies require intelligent, educated and creative soldiers. It is your school's job to educate and prepare them for all National Armed Forces.
How effectively you fulfil your task could determine the success of our soldiers and units in real combat operations, in the defence of our homeland. It is a big responsibility.
Dear troops of the School of Communications!
For every soldier and unit, its flag is a sacred thing to be guarded more than life itself.
Your school flag features both your school emblem and an ancient Latvian warrior fighting the Black Knight. We do not have to go far to say who is the black knight today.
At a time when Ukraine is fighting valiantly for independence and freedom, when we see the crimes committed by the Russian invaders, we are clearly aware that we must always be ready to defend our country, our people and our democracy. I am confident that the National Armed Forces, including the School of Communications, are ready for this task.
The flag carries your motto: "Bright lightning flashes - thunder is fighting with us." I wish you to carry this flag high with pride and to be faithful to its motto today and in the future!
This flag captures the essence of the School of Communications. I hope it will become synonymous with your fighting spirit and the patriotism of Latvian soldiers!
