Today at the “Ilinden” barracks in Skopje members of the Honour Guard Battalion (HGBn) celebrated November 11th – the Unit Day, with a military ceremony. On this occasion, the Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Major General Azim Nuredin, and the Commander of the Honour Guard Battalion, Lieutenant Colonel Dejan Velichkovski, addressed the attendees.
The Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Major General Azim Nuredin, congratulated the members of the Honor Guard Battalion on their Unit Day. He emphasized that the HGB, as the most recognizable and one of the most representative units of the Army, not only symbolizes military discipline and professionalism but also embodies all the values that uphold the dignity and honor of our Army.
“As proud bearers of the state symbols, I expect you to continue upholding the established high standards by consistently adhering to the Guard’s Code and flawlessly executing all assigned tasks,” added General Nuredin.
Addressing the Battalion members, the unit’s Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Dejan Velichkovski, emphasized that it is an honour to command a unit composed of humble and dedicated people who contribute unreservedly to the unit’s legacy and the fulfillment of its mission. Among other things, the Commander urged the guardsmen to maintain their self-confidence, personal and collective values, as well as mutual trust, by demonstrating their enduring commitment to their ethos “Where one stands, we all stand!”
On the occasion of the Unit’s Day sports competitions were held, at which the best teams were awarded diplomas and cups, and the best platoon was also declared, which emphasised the commitment of the Commander to continuously improve the psychophysical readiness of the personnel. Stimulative measures were also awarded to individuals who have particularly distinguished themselves in the performance of their tasks in the past period.
The ceremony was attended by the Deputy Chief of the General Staff, Major General Azim Nuredin, representatives of the commands and units of the Army, the Adjutant of the President, and a large number of former members of the HGBn, who with their work and commitment left a mark on the identity of the unit.
The Honor Guard Battalion celebrates the Unit’s Day as the bearer of the traditions of the First Macedonian-Kosovo Liberation Brigade, formed on November 11th, 1943, in the village of Slivovo.