News archive 2023
Newly-commissioned lieutenants join the ranks of officers
2023 06 23
On 23 June 2023, the Class 30 has graduated from General Jonas Žemaitis Military Academy of Lithuania (MAL) the primary mission of which is to train officers for the Lithuanian Armed Forces. President of the Republic of Lithuania Gitanas Nausėda has commissioned 59 cadets, including 48 males and 11 females as lieutenants in Simono Daukanto Square, Vilnius. The newly-commissioned lieutenants have sworn to loyally serve Lithuania and spare no effort and life to defend its freedom and independence.
The lieutenants will serve in the army (44), air force (6) and navy (2) units, others – in Training and Doctrine Command, Lithuanian Grand Duke Gediminas Staff Battalion, Military Police.
Every year, the best graduate is awarded for the best academic achievements. This year, the award went to Jurgis Bekampis who is well acquainted with the traditions of the Lithuanian Armed Forces, is professional and persistently pursues the set goal to serve Lithuania with honour.
As a symbol of military honour, the best graduate received a souvenir sword from Minister of National Defence Arvydas Anušauskas and cash prize from the Lithuanian community in Canberra, Australia.
Vice-minister of National Defence Žilvinas Tomkus and Commandant Brig Gen Almantas Leika awarded Bachelor’s diplomas to the graduates of Management of Defence and Security Institutions, International Relations and Management of Modern Defence Technologies study programmes.
The cadets also completed a military training programme. The majority of them received the certificates certifying the infantry platoon commander qualification, completed basic air force officer military training and navy junior officer commander training programmes.
By tradition, the celebration was finalized by planting an oak tree in the inner courtyard of the MAL.
Photo credit: Eimantas Genys
