Aivars Krjukovs: Why My and Your Time in the National Guard is Now
Translated from Latvian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
Opinion
Sources not specified
Context piece
- A Latvian National Guard member urges citizens to join, emphasizing that patriotism requires action beyond emotional displays.
- The article highlights the Zemessardze as a place where patriotism transforms into practical skills for national defense.
- It calls on individuals, especially those in critical infrastructure roles, to contribute to societal readiness and national security.
The Latvian National Guard, or Zemessardze, is more than just a military structure; it is presented as a vital form of societal readiness, requiring active participation from all citizens. A member of the guard emphasizes that true patriotism involves taking responsibility and acquiring the skills necessary to protect the nation, moving beyond mere emotional expressions often seen during national holidays.
The Latvian flag on my shoulder is not just a uniform element. It is a task. And this task is quite simple: to ensure that tomorrow this same flag is on another person's shoulder โ a person who is ready to take responsibility. a secure shoulder. And so every day.
The author argues that while many Latvians love their country, patriotic feelings alone are insufficient in critical moments. The Zemessardze offers a tangible path for citizens to translate their love for Latvia into concrete skills. It provides a framework where individuals become an active part of the nation's defense shield, understanding their specific roles within the broader plan for national defense. The guard comprises professionals from diverse civilian backgrounds, including doctors, programmers, and engineers, who maintain their daily lives while dedicating themselves to national defense.
Patriotic emotions alone do not defend anyone, and at a critical moment, beautiful words are not enough to truly protect what is dear to each of us.
With a current strength of over ten thousand members and a goal to reach twelve thousand, the Zemessardze aims to build an ecosystem of twenty thousand individuals, including reservists and supporters. The core belief is that national defense is not an elite project but a daily choice for every citizen. The article specifically appeals to those working in critical infrastructure sectors, energy, communications, logistics, and medicine, stressing that their expertise is crucial for maintaining state functions during crises. Modern conflicts, it notes, target societal nerve centers, making the continuity of essential services paramount. The Zemessardze seeks individuals who can ensure these systems remain operational under pressure, thereby strengthening the nation's resilience.
The Zemessardze is a place where patriotism turns from emotion into concrete skill. Where words gain form, discipline, and meaning.
DistantNews Editorial
Originally published by Delfi Latvia in Latvian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.
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