State Fire and Rescue Service Latgale Staff Honoured in Daugavpils

A ceremony was held in Daugavpils on 12 November at which officers of the Latgale regional board of Latvia's State Fire and Rescue Service (VUGD) were presented with awards. They were granted to mark the 108th anniversary of the proclamation of the Republic of Latvia and to recognise contributions to the safety of residents.

Colonel Česlavs Šmuksts, head of the VUGD Latgale regional board, said a country's strength is built by people who care for its security through their work. He said the board's staff make a significant contribution to the safety of the region's residents, and pointed to a shared goal of a safer Latvia and a safer Latgale.

Who was recognised

The Second-Degree badge "For Exemplary Service" went to two staff members: Major Aleksejs Fomins and warrant officer Aldis Krūmiņš. The Third-Degree badge for exemplary service was given to five people, including two corporals from the Rēzekne and Preiļi units and two officials from other VUGD divisions.

Four Latgale board staff received the badge "For Contribution to Providing International Assistance". The VUGD Certificate of Honour was awarded to 12 officers from various Latgale units and posts.

VUGD expressed gratitude to 20 staff members, while the Latgale regional board's own Commendation for exemplary service went to 15 firefighter-rescuers and deputy platoon commanders. Thanks for supporting the board were also extended to Daugavpils municipal employees, a representative of the Daugavpils Cultural Palace, and Daugavpils State Gymnasium.

Oath and thanks to performers

During the ceremony, three recently recruited firefighter-rescuers took an oath to serve the Latvian state selflessly. The board also thanked the Forštate Culture House, the Daugavpils State Gymnasium folklore ensemble "Dzīsmeite" and its leader Lūcija Vaivode, the gymnasium's duet, and the dance group "N-dance" for the musical and artistic side of the event.