30.09.2009.

90 years of Reserve Commanding Officers Association marked

The ceremonious academy held in SAF Central Dome, in the presence of the Minister of Defense Dragan Sutanovac and the representatives of SAF GS 90 years of the existence of the Reserve Commanders was marked today.

Minister Sutanovac stressed that reserve commanding officers were part of the defense system, and the association was an organization which has had its role in political and social events in our country. Minister took this opportunity to acquaint the representatives with the key issues in the sphere of security policy and reform.

Minister repeated Serbia’s commitment to solving all issues through peaceful and diplomatic means, including the question of Kosovo’s status which, as he said, should be solved through compromise. KiM was the greatest security threat in the region and not only to Serbia, and reiterated that no matter the outcome of the initiative to recognize illegally proclaimed independence of Kosovo, Serbia would never accept that.

Sutanovac stressed the remarkable results achieved in the sphere of international military cooperation, military education, and military economy, with Serbia striving to become a full member of EU. He remarked that he expected not only suggestions but also criticism of MoD’s actions.

The Chairman of the Association Djordje Malenkovic reminded of a rich history of the organization, and the current moment in which our country finds itself in. The commitment of the association members to cherishing the traditions and the help they provide to the civilians was especially highlighted by the Minister.
Malenkovic commented that special strategic documents have been adopted along with the course of further reorganization, and said that this association would strive to gather as many young reserve officers and NCOs as possible. The cooperation with MopD was quite good as he said, and said that he had recognized his future tasks in minister’s address to young officers o the promotion ceremony. Malenkovic said that the role of the Association would be verified through the laws and bylaws.

This celebration was an excellent occasion for the most prominent members to get rewards and acknowledgments.

The association of reserve commanding officers was formed on 15 September 1919 and the first Chairman was Duke Stepa Stepanovic. Even though the new normative acts do not envision the existence of this organization, its members are doing everything to maintain this association alive. The Training program is scheduled to be adopted next year which will be harmonized with the Mod and SAF GS.