Photos

U.S. Military Personnel March with Estonian Defense Forces in Victory Day Parade

June 23, 2008

Photos: Estonian Defense Forces

On June 23, Estonia celebrated Victory Day to recognize their independence gained over 89 years ago and to commemorate those in the armed forces who have lost their lives over the years in Estonia's battle to remain a sovereign state. This historic national holiday was marked with an impressive parade along a sea side route in the capital city of Tallinn. This year's festivities featured the highest number of participants ever (1,300), with sixteen teams of NATO, EU, and U.S. military personnel, who are stationed in Estonia marching in the parade. All of the groups carried the flags of their home countries – a symbol of strong diplomatic relationships and an acknowledgement of every nation's right to its own independence.