Honor Guard Absent for a Week at Freedom Monument and Riga Castle

The iconic honor guard, a familiar sight at Latvia's Freedom Monument and Riga Castle, will be absent for over a week due to mandatory annual military exercises. The National Armed Forces (NBS) announced that the Staff Battalion's Honor Guard Company will be engaged in training at the "Mežaine" military training ground in Skrunda, Kuldīga municipality, from August 16 to August 23.

All personnel within the Honor Guard Company, including those serving their national defense service, will participate in these exercises. Consequently, the ceremonial guard posts at the Freedom Monument and Riga Castle will not be manned during this period. The absence will commence on August 15 and conclude on August 26, encompassing the entire duration of the training and allowing for necessary preparations and post-exercise activities.

This annual training is a standard procedure for the NBS Honor Guard Company, ensuring their readiness and proficiency in various military drills and ceremonial duties. While the absence of the guard may be noted by visitors and locals at these significant landmarks, it underscores the operational demands placed upon the armed forces and the importance of continuous training.