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President Ilves congratulates Estonian Defence Force members serving in Afghanistan by video link
24.02.2011
This morning, the President, Mr. Toomas Hendrik Ilves, and the Commander of the Defence Forces, Lieutenant General Ants Laaneots, congratulated the Estonian Defence Force members in Afghanistan by video link.
“I wish you a happy and safe anniversary of the Republic of Estonia. I assure you that today, during the celebrations, many families are thinking of you as you are far from home protecting Estonia’s independence and security,” said President Ilves to the defence force members serving in Afghanistan.
The soldiers and officers of Infantry Company ESTCOY-11, deployed in the Helmand Province, assured the Head of State that they have expanded the area controlled by the unit with the assistance of the Afghanistan army and police, and the attitude of the local population is quite supportive.
“They are happy with security in the region,” said the Commander of ESTCOY-11, Major Ranno Raudsik.
According to the Defence Force members, unmanned reconnaissance planes that were recently sent to the units are highly beneficial, as they are used to control the area beyond daily controlling routes as well as the new mine launchers, which allow for more accurate aiming than the earlier versions.
The Head of State assured that he is proud of the service of the Estonian Defence Force members who are participating in the most difficult international operation and he wished them all soldier’s luck.
Office of the President
Public Relations Department
Phone +372 631 6229
