Latvian celebration of Lāčplēsis Day and Independence Day

The state of Latvia was proclaimed on 18 November 1918. Its existence, however, had to be defended against the supporters of former German and Russian empires and the Red Army of Soviet Russia. This military conflict was later named the Latvian War of Independence. The period between the Proclamation of the Independent Republic of Latvia on 18 November 1918 and 11 November 1919 was one of the most complicated periods in Latvia's history as battles were still raging for the independence of the newly-born country. Only in 1919, it became clear that Latvia is truly independent when the Russian Army was driven from Riga during the Latvian War of Independence. A significant fact - the Latvian fighters were less in number and worse equipped than their opponents. They are deemed to have earned victory thanks to their bravery and heroic spirit, the support of the Allies, as well as the lack of initiative and poor organisation of the Russian Army.

During patriotic week Latvian students and faculty collected donations for National Defence and Patriotism Foundation “NAMEJS”. The aim is to support veterans who have served in the Latvian National Armed Forces and their families. Donors received a unique pin with a ribbon.

Today, on 16th November the Baltic Defence College (BALTDFECOL) family gathered to celebrate the most important day for Latvians - Independence Day. The reception was opened by the Latvian Senior National Representative Colonel Dzintars Roga, who shortly explained the importance of the events that took place during the week between 11th to 18th November. It was followed by the Commandant of the BALTDEFCOL Brigadier General Ilmar Tamm, who highlighted the importance of the partnership and the similarities of the people of Baltic states. The Commandant congratulated all the Latvians on their most important day.

Afterwards, everybody could enjoy Latvian food and drinks, and listen to Latvian music and socialize.