Today, 26 March 2026, the Baltic Defence College (BALTDEFCOL) had the honour of hosting a Hall of Fame Ceremony.

The Hall of Fame was established in 2016 to provide a prestigious and visible means of recognition for graduates of the College who have attained, through merit, the highest positions in their nation's armed forces, or who have held equivalent positions of responsibility within a ministry.

Celebrating the 10th anniversary of the Hall of Fame’s establishment, Brigadier General Alvydas Šiuparis, Commandant of BALTDEFCOL, inducted General Raimundas Vaikšnoras, Chief of Defence of Lithuania, into this distinguished circle. General Vaikšnoras, a 2005 graduate of the Joint Command and General Staff Course, assumed leadership of the Lithuanian Armed Forces in 2024.

The ceremony was further distinguished by the attendance of H.E. Mrs Gitana Skripkaitė, Ambassador of Lithuania to Estonia.

The ceremony opened with remarks from the Commandant, who highlighted the General’s enduring contribution to the College, specifically his continued support in providing expert faculty members. The Commandant also expressed his sincere personal pride in inducting his own nation’s Chief of Defence.

In his address, General Vaikšnoras recalled his time at the College, noting the significant improvements in both the academic environment and living conditions since his graduation. He reaffirmed his belief that the Baltic Defence College remains one of the most successful collaborative projects for the Baltic states.

"I am proud of what the faculty, in particular, is achieving here," General Vaikšnoras remarked. "It is because of this dedication that BALTDEFCOL is recognised not only within the region but all over the world."

The induction ceremony was followed by a national meeting, where General Vaikšnoras met with Lithuanian staff members and current course participants at the College.