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It is with immense pleasure that I am here with you today, here at the Makarios Stadium, for the swearing-in ceremony of the 2023 ESSO soldiers.
Sensing the responsibility and duty we have as Greeks of Cyprus towards our homeland and our history, I officially welcome you to the National Guard and convey to you the sincere feelings of satisfaction of the state for your conscious decision to serve.
Together with your families, we have recently witnessed you proudly reciting the military oath.
To swear "allegiance to your country" and to undertake the sacred duty and obligation of defending the independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus.
The highest good of security is what allows the state and institutions to function and the political leadership to claim justice for our people.
Serving in the National Guard is a great honour and obligation for all.
Be proud of your opportunity to defend the freedom and security of your country.
Always remember that the high level of manpower is the spearhead and decisive factor for the National Guard, in the effort to fulfill its mission as a force of defense and deterrence against any threat.
This is what we will all continue to do as long as our country is under the illegal Turkish occupation.
Serve by demonstrating seriousness, consistency, responsibility, a spirit of cooperation and a willingness to acquire new knowledge and cultivate and develop new skills and abilities.
Make the most of your military service, and make it a creative, productive and beneficial chapter of your life.
Remember that in the great family of the National Guard, of which you are now active members. You have not only to give, but also to receive.
Strengthen your character with the military virtues of philanthropy, bravery, fortitude, military spirit and, above all, discipline.
So do not hesitate to exert yourself.
Without effort you will not succeed in achieving your goals.
"[...] The gods of virtue sweat were immortal [...]", Hesiod teaches us in his epic poem "Works and Days", stressing that the immortal gods put sweat before virtue, because the conquest of virtue requires sweat and effort.
Be proud to serve your term of service, as we and your parents feel proud of you.
Proud parents, your children will dedicate an important part of their lives to the service of their country and join us in supporting them during their term of service.
I want to assure you that your children, for the duration of their military service, will be our children as well.
We will strive to make the National Guard a second family for all our National Guardsmen.
Rest assured that during their service we will make sure that they are completely safe.
This is what I ask of today's sworn in members. First and foremost, put your safety and the safety of your neighbor first.
I also wish to congratulate the Commands of the Formations and Units, and all personnel who participated in the enlistment process of the 2023 NCOs, for the effort made during this time to welcome and smoothly adjust and integrate our National Guardsmen into the National Guard.
Dear National Guardsmen,
We greet and welcome you once again to the National Guard and wish you wholeheartedly health, strength and a good and productive service.
(AF/SX)
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