Minister of Defence of Estonia Kalle Laanet recognises nearly 140 people who have made a significant contribution to national defence with decorations.
‘The mainstay of Estonia’s defence capability is its people – active servicemen, conscripts, reservists, volunteers, Allies, officials and specialists, as well as cooperation partners from the public and private sectors – who contribute to the development of comprehensive national defence,’ said Minister of Defence Laanet.
‘Cooperation with our partners and Allies is essential, enabling us to feel each other’s support while standing shoulder to shoulder at critical moments, especially in these volatile times,’ Laanet noted.
In recognition of important co-operation, the Minister of Defence presents Janis Karlsbergs, Undersecretary of State, Policy Director of the Ministry of Defence of Latvia, with the Cross of Merit of the Ministry of Defence, Second Class, for his outstanding contribution to the development of defence cooperation between the Baltic Republics and bilateral defence cooperation between Estonia and Latvia. Also receiving a Cross of Merit of the Ministry of Defence, Second Class, was the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Defence of Finland, Jukka Juusti, for his long-term and professional contribution to the development of Estonian-Finnish bilateral defence co-operation. The Ministry of Defence recognises Major General Indrek Sirel with the Cross of Merit of the Ministry of Defence, Third Class, for his outstanding contribution to the development of an Estonia’s, regional and NATO defence solution.
For the second year in a row, society is affected by the COVID-19 virus, which has also been actively addressed within the area of government of the Ministry of Defence, by supporting civilian structures with vaccination and medical supplies and raising awareness about vaccination. The Ministry of Defence recognises Lieutenant Colonel Targo Lusti with the Cross of Merit of the Ministry of Defence, Third Class, for his outstanding contribution to combating the COVID-19 virus within the area of government of the Ministry of Defence and providing the necessary support to civilian structures. The Ministry also recognises Major Anu Mill with a Silver Badge, for her significant contribution in the raising of awareness and organisation of vaccination.
Significant attention was given to education and youth workers, who have contributed in the capacity of national defence instructors, developers and leaders of youth organizations, and organisers of national defence lectures.
‘I certainly acknowledge the private sector, with which we have developed the country’s defence capabilities and industry. Your will and contribution are valuable and support the defence readiness of the state,’ confirmed Laanet.
People were also recognised with decorations and letters of appreciation for their exemplary work in the following areas: defence planning, defence cooperation with Allies, volunteering in the activities of the Defence League, coverage of national defence issues, participation in international operations, cyber security, capability development, information technology and infrastructure development.
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