Today, the service personnel of the Special Forces Battalion (SFBn) marked March 1, the Day of the Unit with a military ceremony at the Ilinden Barracks, commemorating the formation of the first special and professional unit in the Army, known as the Wolves, established in 1994.
The Defense Minister Vlado Misajlovski, in his address, thanked the unit members for their professionalism, dedication, sacrifice, and patriotism, which serve as an inspiration for young individuals aspiring to join the Army.
“With all of this, you express your immense love for the homeland, Macedonia… Not only do you radiate professionalism, you radiate preparedness and continuously, through your daily training, you are becoming better and more efficient. This also shows your greatness. Tirelessly working on yourselves and your skills in service to the security of every citizen,” said Misajlovski, adding that the special unit members are the best, most capable, and best-trained, as confirmed in every assessment.
The Army Chief of the General Staff, Major General Sashko Lafchiski, publicly acknowledged all former members for their work and contribution, which enabled the building of the unit, emphasizing that being and remaining at the top is not an easy task.
“You are the first unit to lay the foundations for implementing NATO standards, the first unit in the Army decorated with the Order for Military Merits, the first unit to selflessly share its knowledge with other Army units and partner countries. Being first is prestigious, but being first and remaining first is your duty and legacy,” emphasized General Lafchiski, urging them to stay true to their profession and sincere to themselves and the unit.
The Commander of the Special Forces Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Blagoj Naumov, described the unit as a pillar of freedom, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. He emphasized the unit’s role in producing many commanders, generals, and leaders in management positions.
“We continue on the path set by our predecessors, building on it, improving ourselves, and now we can proudly say that we stand shoulder to shoulder with our NATO partners, while preserving true national values,” Lieutenant Colonel Naumov said.
During today’s ceremony, the battalion awarded a plaque to the U.S. Office of Defense Cooperation (ODS) for the 30 years of collaboration. Additionally, plaques were presented to the Minister of Defense and the Chief of the General Staff. Incentive measures were also awarded to unit members who achieved exceptional results in their duties over the past period.
The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Chief of the Army General Staff, Major General Azim Nuredini, Army generals, former unit commanders, unit commanders from the Ministry of Interior, and other guests.
Prior to the Unit’s Day, the Wolves collaborated with the Tiger Special Operations Regiment in a blood donation and humanitarian action, demonstrating their commitment to solidarity and community service.
