Honoured veterans of our wars, esteemed members of the Lotta Svärd organisation and respected representatives of Finland’s veteran generations,
Eighty-six years ago, in the early days of the Winter War, many of you were barely fifteen. Our young nation faced a severe test. Finland fought against an overwhelming enemy and persevered its independence. The battle for independence culminated during the Continuation War in the summer of 1944 at Tali-Ihantala, where the Soviet army was finally halted. Today, among our honoured guests are veterans who fought in that battle, perhaps the most decisive in our nation’s history.
Finland’s 108 years of independence have been a success story. Finland has, by many measures, risen to become one of the most stable and secure countries in the world.
The success of our nation would not have been possible without your efforts during those harsh years of war. In your youth, you were asked to shoulder a responsibility far beyond your years. The work you carried out – on the front lines, in supply and administrative duties, in air surveillance, and in military canteens – was of immeasurable value. Few today can imagine the circumstances under which you lived your youth. You grew into adulthood serving Finland during the most challenging years in our history.
Your efforts did not end with the difficult years of war. They were followed by the reconstruction of a devastated homeland. Some of you were war orphans at that time, burdened by grief. Through your perseverance, you laid the foundations for our prosperity. The significance of your legacy is evident in two ways. First, you helped Finland maintain its independence. Second, you built Finland into a society that is always worth defending.
We are eternally grateful for all you have done for our country.
Respected representatives of Finland’s veteran generations,
Your legacy has sustained an exceptionally high will to defend Finland. Your work and your sacrifices will never be forgotten. Your memories and deeds remain in our hearts. We honour the legacy of the wartime generations by ensuring the security of our country. As an example of how tradition is passed down from one generation to the next, three generations of one family are represented at this reception. With the presence of a veteran, a child, and a grandchild serving as a cadet, the chain of generations and the legacy of the war generation are clearly evident.
It is a great privilege for Suzanne and me to celebrate Finland’s independence with you – the men and women of the war generations – as our guests of honour at this reception. We look forward to engaging in discussions with you and hearing your experiences and thoughts about our beloved homeland. Thank you for visiting us here at the Presidential Palace. I wish you all the best for this festive occasion and for Independence Day. Thank you.
