Honoured veterans of our wars and members of the Lotta Svärd organisation, Ladies and Gentlemen,
On this day 85 years ago, Moscow Peace Treaty ended the Winter on 13 March 1940. The war had lasted for 105 days. The Finnish troops were hard pressed on the Karelian Isthmus as the overpowering enemy surged towards Vyborg. The peace terms were harsh. History has later attached to the miracle of the Winter War the value it deserves. The veteran generation knows best the sacrifices that those difficult times required.
During my first year in office, I have appreciated enormously all my encounters with veterans. My spouse and I particularly remember the main event of the National Veterans’ Day in Vaasa last spring and the reception for veterans before Independence Day. The veterans’ positive attitude to life and appreciation of our country have come across in the moments we have shared with them.
Honoured veteran generations,
You deserve every respect for your service and sacrifices. More than that. I thank you for everything you did for this country. You fought for our independence in the most difficult moments of our nation and rebuilt this country. You turned Finland from a poor agricultural society into a modern welfare state. Your children and grandchildren today have prosperity beyond your dreams. Finland’s story is unique in the history of the world’s nations. You built the foundation for the success of Finland.
After the Second World War, you have enjoyed a long life in a stable and safe Finland. It is our duty to join you in passing on Finland’s story, again and again. This will help us avoid the mistakes made in history and ensure that Finnish people learn to appreciate what your generation did. This is needed because nations have short memories. We must regularly reiterate what peace really means: how quiet everyday life without fear can be so beautiful.
Bearing in mind the lessons of history is particularly vital in these uncertain times. Our neighbouring areas may expose us to unrest and attempts to influence us, but Finland will stand firm. Our authorities give excellent service on their watch, and our preparedness is first class.
Honoured veterans’ associations,
This day marks a change of the guard. A structural change in the veteran work has been underway in Finland for some time, as different organisations merge under the umbrella of Tammenlehvä Perinneliitto. This change will now become visible to the general public, as this is the last year in which we celebrate the National Veteran’s Day in its current form. In practice, this means that we will focus on cherishing the veterans’ heritage and memories. The organisation will still consider supporting veterans an honour.
I would like to thank you on behalf of the veterans, their families and all Finish people. The results of your work include the front veteran’s supplements, rehabilitation services, supported travel and various services that support living at home. The important work you have been doing for decades has enabled the veteran generations to have a good life.
Today I am issuing the Commander-in-Chief’s Order of the Day, the first during my term of office. As an expression of my respect for the veterans of our wars and the preservation of their heritage, I have granted Tammenlehvän Perinneliitto the right to use the Cross of Liberty on its flag.
Dear veterans,
Russia’s war of aggression against Ukraine has been going on for over three years. Finland has been steadfast in its support for Ukraine as the country fights for its independence. This war has touched Finnish people in a particular way, with our history and the sacrifices of your generations as our mirror.
Through your story and experience, we are also able to fully appreciate the freedom of our country in these troubled times. We have gathered here today to give thanks for your heroic achievements. The memories must never fade.
Thank you.
