Today, a ceremony was held at the “General Mihailo Apostolski” Military Academy, to promote the 24th class of second lieutenants, the students of the Officer Course for services in the initial officer rank and the students of the basic NCO course in the rank of sergeant. Minister of Defense Vlado Misajlovski spoke at today’s ceremony addressing the new leaders in the Army, officers and non-commissioned officers: “Leadership is not only about authority, leadership is about inspiration, setting an example and nurturing a working environment in which everyone can progress, and you are called upon to lead with wisdom, courage, determination, and make decisions with honesty and integrity, which in turn will reflect the values that define our Army.”
In front of those present, Misajlovski emphasized that today’s promotion is a recognition of their effort, but also a proof of the trust that has been given to them to become part of the institution with the greatest trust among the citizens. He expressed his gratitude for the decision to serve the state and citizens and to their families for the support and understanding of their determination.
In his address, Minister Misajlovski emphasized the importance of the Military Academy in regional frameworks.
“This year at our Military Academy, cadets from Montenegro and Bosnia and Herzegovina are also receiving their first officer rank. It shows our serious commitment to regional stability and security. We have created human capacities, officers, who lived together for the past 4 years, they were educated and trained on how to master the tasks before them. I believe that you will remain good friends and that you will actively cooperate and jointly contribute to strengthening peace, security and stability in the region and in the Alliance,” Misajlovski said.
The President and Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, Gordana Siljanovska Davkova also spoke at today’s ceremony, addressing the new officers and non-commissioned officers: “I know that your lives are different. But today, here and during your studies, they have come merged together. Life is a bumpy, unstoppable march towards freedom, towards knowledge, towards success. Never forget that the road was paved and opened by the Ilinden Uprising members, the partisans, the ASNOM members, and then you.
The Army is, in fact, a family of personal stories, but it is not just an ordinary collection of members. There is something in common – all of you here, of whom I am proud, officers, non-commissioned officers, soldiers, are bound by something sacred, by a solemn oath, to defend the freedom, sovereignty, independence and territorial integrity of our Macedonian homeland. Of course, the military requires discipline, not just dedication. That is why you should be disciplined, conscientious and responsible, in the same way as during your studies, while performing your obligations and duties as defenders of the freedom and honor of the motherland” and added “Never forget where you come from. Never forget your oath, that you are here first and foremost for the Macedonian citizens and for the defense of the Macedonian republic”.
“With your persistence and determination, you have shown that any obstacle can be overcome.” Together, with dedication and faith, you overcame all doubts and confirmed your strength. Each of you has a role to play in this success story. And today, you stand here not only as individuals, but as proof of what can be achieved when working together, with self-belief. This is your time to prove your abilities, to show what true courage means and to build a bright future for the Army and the country”, said the Dean of the Military Academy, Colonel Mitko Bogdanovski to the new officers.
Today, 38 cadets were promoted to second lieutenants, 24 of them for the needs of the Macedonian Army (12 women and 12 men), 8 from Montenegro and 6 from Bosnia and Herzegovina. 60 trainees were promoted to the first officer rank – lieutenant, who underwent a six-month professional training and specialization course in the period September 2023 – February 2024 and February – July 2024, for officers for services for the needs of the Ministry and the Army and 60 non-commissioned officers were promoted into the rank of sergeant.
Today’s ceremony was attended by the Chief of the General Staff, Lieutenant General Vasko Gjurchinovski, the Minister of Sport Borko Ristovski, representatives of the military diplomatic corps from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro and other high-ranking guests from the Ministry and the Army.
