OPENING ADDRESS DELIVERED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE REPUBLIC ON THE OCCASION OF THE 54TH DISABLED WAR VETERANS' WEEK

Ladies and gentlemen,

Liberty, equality and the rule of law are the founding principles of democracy. These are values we have successfully defended. Our nation has twice repelled a threat to our independence and democratic form of government - once in the Winter War, and again in the Continuation War..

During the wars, our nation demonstrated a rare spirit of solidarity and self-sacrifice. Finland, in addition to Great Britain, was the only European nation drawn into the Second World War to evade occupation by a foreign power — albeit at great personal loss and sacrifice.

Even though we are yet a young nation — this year we celebrate the 80th jubilee of our independence — we have a venerable history behind us. No Finn should ever hesitate to proclaim his or her nationality with pride.

If the wars seem like distant history, it bears recalling that today there live among us 30,000 disabled veterans who made great sacrifices for their country: some who gave up their sight, others who lost limbs, and others again who have spent their lives bound to a wheelchair. Their sacrifices are aptly reflected in the motto of this year's autumn collection: "Our veterans never asked the price of freedom". Sadly, many veterans still live with the hardships of war every day of their lives.

We are fortunate in having inherited a legacy of liberty and independence, so it is up to future generations to cherish that legacy. Likewise, it is our moral obligation to do all we can to make life easier for those who made such great sacrifices for our country. Not only is it the government's responsibility to support our veterans, but it is up to every Finn to chip in and do their bit — in the spirit of teamwork that comes to us so naturally.

Like anyone, our war veterans wish to continue living at home for as long as they can. Institutionalization is, naturally, the last resort. In order to cope at home, however, our veterans need to have their homes repaired and equipped with an adequate standard of modern amenities. Over the past ten years, the government has funded home renovations for nearly 6,000 war veterans, but this is only the beginning. With the kind support of the Slot Machine Association, we have hired 18 consultants around the country to provide expert advice in planning these important renovations. But in order to supplement the funding provided by the government — which is inevitably limited — we need your generous donations in order to continue this valuable work.

Still so true today, the motto of the Disabled War Veteran's Association — "We shall not forsake our brothers in arms" — was followed to the letter during the hardships of war. It is my sincere hope that the citizens and associations of Finland will continue to heed that motto and provide their generous support to our war veterans in this jubilee year.

I hereby declare open the 54th Disabled War Veteran's Week and autumn Fund Raising Campaign.