Historical message at the Military Academy ceremony: Türkiye at the top

Speaking at the Military Academy Diploma and Flag Handover Ceremony, held with President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan in attendance, National Defense University Rector Prof. Dr. Erhan Afyoncu recalled the major treasonous attempts that occurred nine years ago. Afyoncu stated that traitors attempted to seize military training institutions, but that dark period was left behind thanks to President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan's will and the nation's support.

Afyoncu emphasized that the National Defense University is the most important institution training officers and non-commissioned officers for the Turkish Armed Forces. In his statement, he stated, "The National Defense University currently trains 64 percent of the total officers and 44 percent of the non-commissioned officers of the Land, Naval, and Air Forces." Afyoncu thanked the Turkish nation for entrusting their sons to MSU and expressed his gratitude to President Erdoğan for his contributions.

Afyoncu said, "Of course, these nine years were a difficult process. However, with the support of your excellency, our Ministry, the General Staff, the forces, and most importantly, the Turkish nation, we have come to this day. Indeed, an article recently published in America stated that Turkey has reached the peak of its power to an extent unseen in the last century." Recalling that throughout history, Turkic states have resurfaced with renewed strength, Afyoncu stated that these processes have been successfully navigated, from the Gokturks to the Ottoman Empire and today's Republic of Turkey.

In his speech, Afyoncu listed three fundamental reasons for the Turkish nation's continued existence, explaining these as the institution of family, national and spiritual values, and the superiority of the civilian will. He admonished the students with the words, "Always receive the blessings of your parents. Be equipped with national and spiritual values. Be at the service of the elected will of the nation and the civilian will." Afyoncu concluded his speech by thanking President Erdoğan for attending the ceremony.

Speaking at the ceremony, Major General Levent Sabahattin Güldağı, Commandant of the Turkish Military Academy, stated that young officers will be the greatest strength of the Turkish Armed Forces. Güldağı said, “From this day forward, you are joining the ranks of our glorious Turkish Armed Forces and embarking on a journey never to tire. From now on, you will successfully fulfill every assigned duty with the strength you derive from your national, moral, and professional values.”

Major General Güldağı expressed his belief that young officers will play a significant role in increasing the effectiveness and deterrent power of the Turkish Armed Forces. He expressed his hope that graduation would be auspicious for the students, their families, and the nation, and offered his condolences and gratitude to all martyrs and veterans, especially Ghazi Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of the Republic, and his comrades-in-arms.