Helsinki on 13 March 2025
Honoured veterans of our wars. People of Finland.
Today, 85 years have passed since the Winter War ended. When the heavy fighting stopped, few would have thought that Finland would have to endure several years of war. Our wartime generation fought for our independence. The war shattered young people’s dreams, destroyed homes and left scars that never healed. Thanks to those heroic sacrifices we have enjoyed peace ever since.
There are fewer and fewer veterans among us. By caring for each and every one of them, we are paying our debt of honour. At the same time, we are entering a new era in which the veteran’s legacy and cultural heritage will be cherished by the next generation. The heritage association Tammenlehvän Perinneliitto now takes over the tasks of the veterans’ associations and promotes national unity and the will to defend our country.
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.
The generation of veterans has carried its burden. It is time for the next generation to take responsibility for our country and its independence, with awareness of its history. The memories must never fade.
Commander-in-Chief of the Defence Forces
President of the Republic of Finland
Alexander Stubb
