On Friday, October 2nd 2020, the Deputy Minister of National Defence, Mr. Alkiviadis Stefanis, attended the oath taking ceremony for newly-recruited Airmen in the 124 Basic Training Wing.
Addressing the newly-recruited Airmen, the Deputy Minister of National Defence stated the following:
“Under the umbrella of the Battle Flag, you took the Military Oath of honour and loyalty to the Country and you have been officially admitted to the large Air Force family.
The oath does not only involve a moral commitment, but also an invisible tie to those who defended the Nation’s values throughout its historical course. You should analyze it carefully and you will find in each phrase the resultant of your obligations.
Whilst your enlistment in the Greek Armed Forces is a constitutional duty, it is at the same time the highest honour and the ultimate right that you have as citizens.
The military service makes the greatest contribution to the Country and Greeks all over the world. We serve a Country with a centuries-old history, a cradle of global civilization and a people that learned to live in freedom. You should be very proud of the opportunity that you are given to defend the most important human asset: freedom.
Human resources constitute our most valuable weapon system and our most important force multiplier. Let me assure you that you are the center of our attention and there is considerable concern about providing to you all the tools to become worthy fighters.
The challenges that you are going to face during the months of your service are numerous and primarily relate to your adjustment to a different way of life.
You should deal with difficulties with optimism, with a smile, with faith and positive thinking. You should share the spirit of “I can do that”, as well as the spirit of the winner. Arm yourselves with patience and perseverance; perhaps two of the greatest human virtues.
Move forward with faith, a smile and loyalty to the duty and commit yourselves with eagerness, enthusiasm and with all your powers to the completion of your military training.
For each and every one of you, I wish to thank your parents who are not here with us today, due to the implementation of State measures to deal with the health crisis, and who have entrusted us with their children.
New Airmen,
You have been asked to offer your valuable services to the Country and to contribute to the protection of freedom and its independence. National Defence requires collective effort and consistency that is based on conscious discipline.
You should feel extremely proud and it is particularly important to understand what it means to wear the gallant uniform of the Greek Airman.
You have to remember that upright men are not fatalists and deal with difficulties with serenity.
I wish you health, strength, a fruitful and creative military service”.
After the oath taking ceremony for newly-recruited Airmen, the Deputy Minister of National Defence visited the Town Hall of Tripoli, where he met the Mayor, Kostas Tzioumis.
