December 3, Belgian soldier Danfo Van Der Velden lost in an accident while deployed to Lithuania with the NATO Multinational Battle Group Rukla was paid final respects before departing for home. Wreath tributes were laid by President of the Republic of Lithuania Gintanas Nausėda, Prime Minister Inga Ruginienė, Speaker of the Seimas Juozas Olekas, Minister of National Defence Robertas Kaunas, Chief of Defence General Raimundas Vaikšnoras, and other dignitaries representing different countries.
“Personnel of the Belgian Armed Forces have been our close partners and Allies here in Lithuania for years. They strengthen NATO’s eastern flank and contribute to security throughout the region side by side with our forces. Thus, losing Danfo hits home to Lithuania and the Lithuanian Armed Forces community he trained and served for security of all of us with. Lithuania is saddened and stands in solidarity in paying homage. Danfo’s service and dedication will not be forgotten,” said Minister of National Defence R. Kaunas.
The honor cordon ceremony was conducted at the Kaunas International Airport by servicemembers of the Belgian Contingent, the NATO Multinational Battle Group Lithuania and the Iron Wolf Infantry Brigade.
On November 29 the Belgian soldier sustained critical injuries in a live fire exercise. He succumbed to his multiple and particularly severe wounds after receiving first aid on site, immediate lift to Vilnius University Hospital Santaros Clinics and the medical personnel’s 24 hour-long battle for his life.
Info credit: Lithuanian Armed Forces.
Photo credits: A. Čemerka / MoD
