The Command Senior Enlisted Leaders’ Course (CSELC) 2025 explored Eastern Estonia last week to to become familiar with one of the easternmost regions of the European Union.

The trip began with a short bus ride to the Jõhvi Army Base, where participants received a series of engaging briefings from the Command Sergeant Major, who oversees the arrival, training, and mentoring of Estonian conscription forces. Course participants also enjoyed a delicious meal at the military dining facility.

The journey continued to the Blue Hills memorial site, about 45 kilometers from Narva. After climbing the towering observation platform, CSM Sepp Ott from the Estonian Defence Forces delivered an impactful lecture explaining the site’s historical significance during World War II. In addition, he shared stories of the bravery of Estonian soldiers who fought to hold their ground against overwhelming adversaries.

The visit to the Blue Hills was followed by a meeting with the Mayor of Narva, Katri Raik. She welcomed the guests at City Hall, spoke about her responsibilities as mayor of a city of 45,000 residents, and highlighted the unique history of Narva as the first city in Europe to see the sunrise.

The day concluded with a visit to Narva Castle and its museum. The exhibits were toured at one's own pace, allowing for immersion in the city’s rich past while standing just across the river from Russia—its flag visible on a nearby fortress.