24.09.2011.

Soldiers on voluntary military service took their oath

The September 2011 generation of soldiers on voluntary military service and the 136th cadet Military academy class took their oath of allegiance today in the third Training Centre in Leskovac. Soldiers serving on a voluntary basis and the cadets of the Military Medical Academy were sworn in training centers in Valjevo and Sombor as well.

The ceremony in the "Petar Bojovic" barracks in Leskovac was attended by the SAF Chief of General Staff Gen. Miloje Miletic, the Commander of the Training Command Lt. Gen. Aleksandar Zivkovic, the 3rd Training Centre Commander in Leskovac Colonel Mijodrag Djurovic, including the representatives of the Ministries of Defense and Interior, as well as numerous representatives of the Serbian Orthodox Church.

General Miletic told cadets and soldiers to remember the oath they had just taken, to take pride in it because it would contribute to the future security and reputation of the Republic of Serbia and the citizens who live in it.

- In December last year, the last generation of conscript soldiers was sworn in, and on that occasion I said it would not be the last time we hear the words military oath. The Serbian Army keeps military traditions of our people and will always remain open to all citizens of Serbia - General Miletic said, adding that this was the best confirmed in training centers in Sombor, Valjevo, where the soldiers also took oath.

Addressing the cadets of the 136th class of the Military Academy, Miletic said that a soldier's job was a very responsible one, while at the same time the most beautiful and honorable profession. He said he believed that they would successfully complete their education and turn into modern military officers able to meet the challenges of their profession in the 21st century.

- Taking the oath you have made another significant step on the path to the first officer rank. This path will not be easy and only those who work, study and the adopt military virtues thus confirming their commitment to the officer's call can succeed on this path. Always remember the words embroidered on the flag of the cadet brigade - "Honor is what we possess" - said General Miletic.

General Miletic commended the second generation of soldiers on voluntary military service for opting to sign up, reminding them if they wanted to become professional soldiers they would have to spend the nest three months constantly learning and improving.

- You have shown that young people in Serbia are well how important it is to defend our country, and make it secure. Your commanders will help you to master military skills, to test your mental and physical abilities and to boost your confidence and in the military as well. During your stay in yours units you will learn the true meaning of teamwork, discipline and courage. You will have the opportunity to preserve the country's honor and the prestige of the profession as well as to gain valuable life experience, while forging lifelong friendships in such surroundings - General Miletic observed, adding that they were today rightfully proud.

Miletic said that the Serbian Army is undergoing changes and reforms to grow into a strong, modern, organized army according to the best international standards, capable of responding effectively to all security challenges and to fulfill its fundamental social role.

- After the professionalization, we continued with improving the training system and the modernization of our weapons and military equipment. We are developing cooperation with the armed forces of countries from all continents. Whenever necessary, in accordance with the possibilities, we help citizens as our people and country come first. The successes we have achieved in the reform process in the Armed Forces are an important contribution for Serbia to join the European Union. Furthermore, be sure that on our path to European integration, the Serbian Army will not do anything to harm the citizens of Serbia - General Miletic stressed, concluding that the citizens of Serbia have recognized these efforts, as can be seen in a rise of their confidence and great interest in young men and women in serving the military service voluntarily and then to pursue military profession.

STATEMENTS OF SOLDIERS AND PARENTS

Not only are young men and women but their future commanders are proud too. The tradition of being a proud member of the army continues even when they sign for voluntary military service, while relatives left the barracks content with their hearts brimming with joy.

- Today I am very proud because my son, Aleksandar Krstic, a cadet of the Military Academy, has taken the oath thus carrying on the family tradition which has spawned many officers.

The most important thing is patriotism, and that he likes the military, and this will help me in my further education - says Ljubisa Krstic from Grabovac in Trstenik.

Lots of young people find themselves puzzled at what choices to make, which way their life will go, where at the very crossroads of their life's journey they opt to start a military profession. Despite considerable challenges, this call also brings the possibility of employment.

- I plan to finish my military service, and after that I will see - Maybe, I will stay to work as a professional soldier. Today's oath is the beginning of a great thing and a great honor to our parents - said Branko Bozinovic from Soko Banja, who has volunteered to serve military service over the next three months.