BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 22. At Simonas Daukantas
Square in Vilnius, 70 graduates of the General Jonas Žemaitis
Military Academy of Lithuania crossed the symbolic threshold
between learning and service – they were awarded their first
officer rank of lieutenant, Trend reports citing the country’s Defense
Ministry.

This marks not only a personal achievement but also a commitment
to Lithuania.

This year’s graduating class includes 58 men and 12 women, among
them 8 officers who earned a master’s degree and specialized in the
Air Force. All graduates completed a cycle of physical,
psychological, and leadership training.

Minister of National Defense Dovilė Šakalienė, addressing the
newly commissioned officers, emphasized:

“The officer’s oath carries even deeper meaning today. We live
in a time when security in Europe can no longer be taken for
granted. Russian aggression, cyber and information threats, the
emerging axis of evil, and the growing influence of
authoritarianism are rapidly reshaping our security environment.
That’s why Lithuania needs professional, strategically-minded
officers who can work effectively with our allies. You represent
this new generation. From today, you not only protect the state but
also become defenders of its values — both with weapons and with
your decisions. Lithuania is proud of you.”

The Academy’s commandant, Colonel Ričardas Dumbliauskas,
reminded the new officers:

“To lead means not only to give orders — it means to inspire, to
be worthy of trust, and to lead by example. This path will require
you to decide when others hesitate. Be the kind of leaders whom
soldiers will follow without question.”

As per tradition, during the solemn ceremony, the President of
the Republic of Lithuania, as the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed
Forces, touched each graduate’s shoulder with a sword, saying: “Do
not raise it without reason, do not lower it without honor.” This
symbolic moment marks a cadet’s transition into an officer.

Deputy Minister of National Defense Karolis Aleksa awarded the
Sword of Honor, given to the top graduate of the class.

This year, the sword was awarded to Lt. Justas Budrikas from
Šilutė. From the beginning of his studies at the Military Academy,
Justas stood out for his leadership qualities, excellent academic
and military performance, and his strong motivation and commitment
to the cadet’s oath, earning the respect of both peers and
commanders.

“Each of my classmates has their own story. And today, I do not
stand here alone — I stand for all of us, for our course, which
over the years became not just comrades-in-arms but a family.
Together, we endured challenges — doubts, fatigue, failures — and
shared in our achievements. At the Academy, we grew not only as
soldiers but also as people. This is our shared victory,” Lt.
Justas Budrikas said in his speech.

After the ceremony at Daukantas Square, the celebration moved to
the Academy’s hall, where the graduates received their bachelor’s
and master’s diplomas. From now on, they are officers — ready to
defend the country, lead troops, and shape tomorrow’s defense
forces, assuming responsibility not only for themselves but for
their homeland and the safety and well-being of its citizens.

The newly sworn-in officers will continue their service in
various Lithuanian Armed Forces units across the country.