The swearing-in ceremony for the new Permanent Non-Commissioned Officers of the National Guard, Class of 2026, was held today at the “Stylianos Kalbourtzis” military camp in Delikipos.
In his remarks, Defense Minister Vasilis Palmas highlighted the important role that non-commissioned officers play in any modern military, welcomed the new non-commissioned officers to the National Guard, and wished them every success in the work they are to carry out.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
Read Mr. Palmas’s greeting in its entirety:
“It is a particular pleasure and honor for me to be here today at the official swearing-in ceremony for the new permanent non-commissioned officers of Class of 2026.
I must admit that the induction of new personnel into the ranks of our National Guard always brings us great joy.
It is a process that contributes significantly to the renewal, modernization, and strengthening of the force’s operational and administrative capabilities, as it bolsters the National Guard’s personnel with highly capable officers who are able to meet the increased needs and demands of the modern operational environment.
Non-Commissioned Officers of Class 2026,
At a time when the challenges we face are more complex than ever before, the contribution of our personnel in addressing them is of critical importance.
In modern armies, noncommissioned officers are considered one of the cornerstones upon which their structure and functionality rest.
In this light, your contribution will be decisive and will span a wide range of areas.
From ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of the units and making decisions at the tactical level, to the critical role that noncommissioned officers play in training and mentoring personnel, helping them acquire knowledge, skills, and the necessary military mindset.
Through their presence, experience, and example, noncommissioned officers foster a spirit of cooperation and solidarity and strengthen the cohesion, discipline, and morale of the units.
In this context, a constant commitment to the principles governing military service becomes even more important.
Maintain a high standard of discipline.
Discipline is what ensures the effectiveness and reliability of every military unit.
Faithfully enforce and demand the faithful enforcement of regulations and applicable laws.
Remember that this is a fundamental prerequisite for the smooth functioning of the military and the successful execution of our mission.
Cultivate mutual respect among yourselves and in your relationships with your subordinates and superiors.
Respect for superiors is a main pillar of military organization, while demonstrating respect for subordinates strengthens trust and unit spirit.
Always remember that leadership is not reflected solely in one’s rank and duties, but first and foremost in one’s conduct, leading by example, and the way in which you make the most of the people serving alongside you.
I know full well that your commanders and superiors will treat you with trust and respect.
Use this trust as motivation and make every effort to improve yourselves, both as individuals and as professionals.
Do not become complacent.
Be humble, but constantly strive for knowledge, progress, and excellence.
“Cherish what you have, but strive for what is better,” as the ancient Greek orator Isocrates advised us.
Approach what you have already achieved with a level head—without underestimating it, but also without viewing it as your final destination.
Because every achievement is just one more step—not the end of the journey.
Dear new Non-Commissioned Officers,
In your journey thus far, we must acknowledge the crucial role played by your families and loved ones.
Behind every decision, behind every effort, and behind every moment of success or disappointment, there were people who stood quietly by your side.
People who supported your choices, who shared in the difficulties of the journey you’ve taken, and who encouraged you through their example.
Your personal journey is based to a large extent—beyond your own personal effort—on the stable environment of trust and support that has surrounded you all these years.
In this light, your graduation from your respective academies also reflects their own discreet yet profoundly meaningful presence throughout this entire journey.
Young Noncommissioned Officers,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
With more than six decades of continuous service to our country and our people, the National Guard continues to be the key deterrent against any threat and the primary defender of the fundamental principles of freedom and democracy.
In a country where a large part has been under Turkish occupation for fifty-two years, the sense of responsibility and duty takes on particular significance.
In this context, the mission of the National Guard is steadfast and non-negotiable, and consists of defending the independence and territorial integrity of the Republic of Cyprus.
This responsibility rests collectively with all those who serve in its ranks.
As of today, you, too, are officially members of the National Guard.
Confident that you will prove worthy of our history and the expectations of our state and people, I congratulate you once again on your success, welcome you to the National Guard, and wish you good health and every success in the work you have to carry out.”
