On 19 June 2025, the Baltic Defence College (BALTDEFCOL) held a prestigious graduation ceremony in the Main Hall to celebrate the culmination of three flagship academic programs: the Higher Command Studies Course (HCSC) 2025, Joint Command and General Staff Course (JCGSC) 2024–2025, and the Civil Servants’ Course (CSC) 2024–2025. The event marked a significant milestone for senior military officers, civil servants, and defence professionals who have successfully completed their respective academic and professional development journeys.

The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome by Brigadier General Alvydas Šiuparis, Commandant of the BALTDEFCOL. In his graduation address, Brigadier General Šiuparis praised the perseverance, dedication, and international spirit of the graduates. He emphasised the importance of strategic leadership, multinational cooperation, and critical thinking in confronting future security challenges in the Baltic region and beyond. 

“Quality of education is, and will remain, our highest priority. This institution shapes not only professionals, but principled leaders prepared for uncertain futures.”

Following the Commandant, a series of high-ranking dignitaries delivered keynote addresses:

• Mr Kaimo Kuusk, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence of Estonia, underscored Estonia’s commitment to defence education and praised the graduates as future shapers of regional and international stability.

• Dr Karolis Aleksa, Vice-Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Lithuania, congratulated the students and reminded them of their vital role as “ambassadors of resilience, cooperation, and forward-thinking leadership.”

• Major General Kaspars Pudāns, Chief of Defence of the Republic of Latvia, addressed the graduating classes with gratitude and pride, highlighting the strength of Baltic unity and interoperability developed through rigorous academic training.

The central moment of the ceremony featured the official graduation of the students. Course directors, alongside the Commandant and the highest representatives from each Framework Nation – including ambassadors and defence attachés – personally congratulated and handed diplomas to national and sponsored graduates.

• Joint Command and General Staff Course (JCGSC) 2024–2025: 73 graduates from 15 countries

• Higher Command Studies Course (HCSC) 2025: 28 graduates from 13 countries

• Civil Servants’ Course (CSC) 2024–2025: 6 graduates from Framework Nations Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania

These figures underscore the multinational character of BALTDEFCOL, which continues to serve as a vital educational platform for NATO, the EU, and partner nations. 

Class leaders delivered reflective and inspiring addresses to their peers and mentors:

• COL Māris Utināns, HCSC 2025 Class Leader, delivered a thoughtful speech on leadership and strategic insight, followed by the presentation of the Best Faculty Award.

• MAJ Andrius Kabašinskas, JCGSC 2024–2025 Class Leader, acknowledged the diversity and collaboration experienced throughout the course and presented the Best Faculty Award.

Excellence in performance and contribution to the academic community was formally recognised through several prestigious awards:

Higher Command Studies Course (HCSC)

• Academic Writing Award – Colonel Martin Novāk
  

• Commandant’s Award – Lieutenant Colonel Kevin Ryan
  

Joint Command and General Staff Course (JCGSC)

• Commandant’s Award – Major Martin de Baglion

• Academic Writing Award (Best Research Paper) – Major Šarūnas Valiokas

• Joint Operations Award – Major Scott Ratzer

• Class Leader's Recognition – Major Andrius Kabašinskas

• The ‘Best Coursemate’ Award – Major Scott Ratzer

Civil Servants’ Course (CSC)

• Commandant’s Award – Ms Sandra Monta Bokta

Best Faculty Member Award

(HCSC) Best Faculty Member—Mr George Spencer Terry
(JCGSC) Best Faculty Member— Lieutenant Colonel (ret) Albertas Kondrotas

Recognition of Distinguished Service

The academic community also honoured Colonel (ret) Dr (hab) Zdzisław Śliwa, Dean of the Baltic Defence College (BALTDEFCOL), in recognition of his outstanding service, scholarly contributions, and leadership. His long-standing dedication to professional military education was formally acknowledged and celebrated.

In a special ceremony, Brigadier General Alvydas Šiuparis, Commandant of the BALTDEFCOL, presented him with the Baltic Defence College's Medal of Merit Gold.

Additionally, he received medals from all three Framework Nations in recognition of his exceptional efforts to strengthen cooperation among the Baltic states and for his personal contribution to enhancing the effectiveness and international standing of BALTDEFCOL. These honours include:

• The Lithuanian National Defence System Medal of Merit for Civilians
• The Republic of Latvia Minister of Defence Award Medal of Honorary Recognition
• The Estonian Defence Forces’ Decoration for Services in the Defence Field

The graduates of AY 2024/2025 now return to their nations as more capable, connected, and strategically prepared leaders. The BALTDEFCOL continues to strengthen its role as a cornerstone of professional military education, building the intellectual foundation for regional and global security through cooperation, education, and excellence.

The BALTDEFCOL Family wishes all the best to the graduates of the AY 2024/2025!