Profile of 2002: A year of integration to NATO

 A momentous day of the year was June 6, the 10th anniversary since the establishment of the National Defence School, reorganised in 1994 to the Military Academy of Lithuania.

The Military Academy played host to roughly 250 guests – rectors of the universities of Lithuania; defence attachés accredited to Lithuania; commandants of military schools of Latvia, Estonia, Czech Republic, Poland, Germany, and Virginia Military Institute, the USA, and other state and public officers.

110 graduates earned Bachelor of Administration Diplomas and motorised infantry platoon commanders’ certificates. Besides the school graduated 109 students by correspondence.

The class of 2002 was a pioneer of a new military training programme, worked out in co-operation with Great Britain Forces’ instructors.

 In 2002, the Military Academy opened a new course of 18- months master studies and a 5-months captain course. New courses will train specialists for NATO-integrated staffs, National Land Forces company commanders, and battalion staff officers. Captain course was welcomed in particular, since it was first in Lithuania to train infantry battalion staff officers in compliance with NATO standards.

 Master studies enrolled 10 students and officer course – 16 officers.

 Much has been done accomplishing infrastructure plans. The school successfully completed the restoration of the 19th century building for cadet club, built a new hostel and renovated and installed classrooms for captain courses, athletic complex and eating-facilities.