56 Luxembourg Soldiers Receive Recognition Medals for Missions Abroad

The Luxembourg Army recently held the 205th “Solemn Promise of Recruits”, in the presence of Luxembourg’s Minister of Defence, Yuriko Backes, Chief of Staff of the Luxembourg Army, General Steve Thull, Commander of the Forces, Colonel Alain Schoeben, Esch-sur-Alzette Mayor, Christian Weis, as well as members of the Army, in front of the Hôtel de Ville (town hall) in Esch-sur-Alzette.

In a press release, the Luxembourg Army reported that 45 volunteer soldiers, who had demonstrated commitment, integrity and reliability, took the oath after successfully completing initial training. They pledged obedience to the Constitution, the laws of the State, military regulations, as well as loyalty to the Grand Duke and the flag in the performance of their military service. Their success marked the end of the volunteers' four-month basic training and the beginning of their military service within the Luxembourg Army. The next steps for the soldiers will be advanced individual training followed by specialised individual training, to best prepare them for their commitment within the various units, with the aim of creating robust, more operational and available troops.

According to the army, the "promise" ceremony is an expression of the “esprit de corps” of the Luxembourg Army. As is tradition, the fourragère (fodder), symbolising the conversion of recruits into full-fledged soldiers, was awarded to the recipients. In addition, five soldiers were recognised for their excellent performances during their basic training: Nick Delles (1st place), Joao Teixeira Valente (2nd place), Alexis Dos Reis Vincendeau (3rd place), Maël Van Dessel (best shooter) and Pedro Ferreira Santos Caetano (best athlete).

The Recognition Medal for Mission Abroad was also presented during the ceremony. This is awarded by Grand Ducal decree, upon the proposal of Luxembourg’s Minister of Defence, to military personnel, or other individuals of Luxembourg or foreign nationality, who have participated in a military mission. The Luxembourg Army described this distinction as an integral part of a nation's military traditions that is awarded to recipients in recognition of professional merit during their mission. A total of 56 Luxembourg soldiers and six foreign soldiers (Germany, Belgium, France) received medals during the ceremony.

Minister Backes said that "given the current geopolitical situation, it is essential to invest more in our defence. These investments are essential to achieve our objectives. But our personnel are just as important. We need more qualified and motivated women and men in our army. They are the foundation of our defence".