Defense educators awarded

TALLINN - Estonian Defense Minister Urmas Reinsalu awarded letters of commendation to three Guard Battalion conscripts who, on a volunteer basis, taught national defense to schoolchildren, reports LETA. At the battalion’s morning roll call, the defense minister commended Junior Sergeant Jaanus Vast, Corporal Kaupo Irs and Corporal Olari Uik for helping to organize a national defense camp for youth in Ida-Viru County.

During the three-day camp, 40 Ida-Viru County school pupils gained basic knowledge of national defense. They received an introduction to barracks life, received instruction in handling of weapons and participated in a forest camp, where they learned orienteering, camouflage techniques, pitching a tent and preparing meals.

Vast, Irs and Uik took part in organizing the camp during their holiday, on their free time.
“Thank you for showing goodwill and helping introduce national defense to schoolchildren,” Reinsalu said in handing over the letters of commendation. “I believe your role model raised the trust these children have in the Estonian state and several of them just may become a good Defense Forces member in future.”

The defense minister also gave letters of commendation to Guard Battalion members Lt. Col. Kalle Teras and to Warrant Officer Aivar Pennert.

The national defense camp at the end of June was carried out by the NGO Riigikaitse Rugement and the Estonian NATO Association.