11.10.2012.

Welcome for the new lieutenants of 204th aviation brigade

On the monument to the defenders of Belgrade on Zemun quay, wreaths were laid by the members of 204th members Aviation Brigade and representatives of the retired military pilots and paratroopers.

During this solemn act commander 204th Aviation Brigade, Brigadier General Predrag Bandic welcomed new second lieutenants who have today assumed their posts in the brigade.

General Bandic said on this occasion that this is the year when we mark 100 years of Serbian military aviation, and this year is dedicated to fostering the traditions and memories of those who gave their lives, patriotism, heroism, and wore the uniform with honor.

Professional career of new lieutenants will mark the beginning of the second century the Serbian military aviation. They are our new beginning. We tried to make history worthy of them, to enable them to start an honorable and worthy start of future promotion and career and to create a basis to go further, as the commander of the 204th aviation brigade stated, wishing them to wear the uniform with honor and accomplish all they have set their mind to.

- It is in this symbolic place we honor the heroes who on 6 April 1941 rose to the task and defended their families, Army, Air Force, and the Serbian people, in a manner expected of an officer. Continuing the tradition of sixth fighters squadron, members of the 204th aviation brigade at this place, and still proudly pay tribute to their predecessors, today's your chance to start your career here, as general Bandic said pointing tasks and accomplishments the brigade has achieved so far as evidence of synergy of all arms and services of the Army Serbia.

President of the Association of retired military pilots and paratroopers Zlatomir Grujic wished young fellow officers a long and successful flying experience and to continue to nurture the sacred tradition of aviation. On that occasion, he was presented with a diploma "Mihajlo Petrovic," in memory of the first educated Serbian pilot.

Six new lieutenants will plant today, in front of the Museum of Military Force, six trees as a symbol of the spot where they will welcome the next generation of young Serbian Army officers.