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On Victory Day celebrations at Põlva
25.06.2002


President Arnold Rüütel sent the Victory fire to the countiesThe President of the Republic and Mrs Ingrid Rüütel today participate in the events in celebration of the Victory Day at Põlva.

At 10.00 in the morning a divine service, Priest of Põlva Üllar Kask and Head Chaplain of the Defence Forces Tõnis Nõmmik officiating, began at St Mary's Church of Põlva. During the divine service the flag of the Naiskodukaitse (Women's Home Defence Organisation) was consecrated. The service was attended by Ex-President Lennart Meri, Chairman of the Riigikogu Toomas Savi, Commander of the Defence Forces Vice Admiral Tarmo Kõuts, members of the Riigikogu and the Government, representatives of local governments, diplomats accredited to Estonia as well as by inhabitants of the County and Town of Põlva.

At 11.30 am, the Victory Day parade started in the stadium of Põlva. The President greeted the servicemen, members of the Defence League, members of its women's and youth organisations, Latvian servicemen and other participants in the parade. Thereafter President Arnold Rüütel delivered a speech, in which he acknowledged the achievements of the last ten years in building the national defence of Estonia.

Then the Victory fire lit in the Estonian Soldiers' Memorial Church at Tori reached the stadium. The President received the fire and, after torches were lit by that, sent the Victory and Midsummer Eve's fire to all counties of Estonia. After the parade all participants in the event had the possibility to taste army soup.

At 13.00 pm, a reception hosted by the County Governor of Põlva, Mart Madisson, and the Mayor of Põlva, Tarmo Tamm, began at the Cultural Centre of Põlva.


Press Service of the Office of the President
Kadriorg, June 23, 2002


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