19.09.2014.

Taking the oath of enlistment

The September generation of soldiers in voluntary military service, first-year cadets of the Military Academy and the Military Medical Academy as well as students of the Reserve Officers Course took their oath today in the First Training Centre in Sombor and in Vojvoda Zivojin Misic barracks in Valjevo and Vojvoda Petar Bojovic barracks in Leskovac.

The ceremony in Valjevo was attended by the Minister of Defence Bratislav Gasic, Training Command Commander Major General Djokica Petrovic, representatives of local authorities, church and numerous relatives and friends of the soldiers, cadets and students.

On this occasion, Minister Gasic said to the ceremonial line of troops that today they brightened the face of Serbia, as well as their parents, spouses and friends.

- You have decided to honourably and proudly serve the homeland, to continue the glorious military traditions of our people, and serve the noble cause – security and reputation of our country. Today as well, when we are marking the centenary of the Great War, Serbian soldiers defend and selflessly help their people. Always committed, always honest, always willing to sacrifice themselves for the sake of the interests of their people. It has always been like that. No matter how difficult is the challenge before you, recall our ancestors. Loving their homeland, they helped Serbian state to survive – the Minister said. He told the youngest members of the military to carry the colours of their flags with honour, regardless of whether they are in Serbia or in a peacekeeping mission.

Gasic stressed commitment to maintain the existing capabilities and build the new ones, thereby strengthening the defence potential of the defence system and the entire state. He told the parents that the state of Serbia will do everything for young soldiers, students and cadets to successfully complete their education and military service.

At the ceremony in Leskovac in Vojvoda Petar Bojovic barracks, which was attended by Chief of General Staff of the Serbian Armed Forces General Ljubisa Dikovic, 143 troops on voluntary military service of September 2014 generation, three professional soldiers, four non-commissioned officers and 49 cadets of 139 class of the Military Academy swore in before the national flag.

General Dikovic pointed out that the military oath has always occupied a special place in the rich and glorious history of our nation and the military.

- Taking the oath expresses willingness to serve noble cause, our people and homeland. Cadets, soldiers and non-commissioned officers, by today's solemn act you ranked among those who are willing to fight for their country, to defend it and save it, like soldiers, with courage, honour and dignity – the Chief of General Staff pointed out telling everyone lined up to remember the oath they have given, to keep it in their heart, because it binds for a lifetime.

The swearing-in ceremony in the First Training Centre was attended by Deputy Chief of General Staff of the Serbian Armed Forces Lieutenant General Jovica Draganic who said that it was a great day for our military and that taking the oath shows its readiness to serve its people.

In Sombor, 161 soldiers on voluntary military service swore in, including 12 girls and two female professional soldiers.

Photo galleries:
Taking oath in Valjevo
Taking oath in Leskovac
Taking oath in Sombor