Honoring MSB Veterans – A Day of Recognition and Reflection

On May 29, Sweden celebrated its National Veterans Day with an official ceremony at the Restare Veterans Monument outside the National Maritime Museum in Stockholm. The event was held in glorious sunshine and gathered a wide audience of veterans, families, colleagues, and members of the public.

As always, MSB was present – this year with colleagues from the Operations Department, showcasing the agency’s international field work and equipment. Many visitors stopped by our tent, showing great interest in MSB’s international missions, our protective equipment, and a Toyota Landcruiser used in deployments around the world.

The official ceremony was attended by H.M. The King, H.R.H. Prince Carl Philip, the Speaker of the Parliament, and the Prime Minister, underlining the significance of this national day of remembrance and recognition. The entire day was very well attended.

A proud moment for MSB was when Pär Högman, an experienced international deployee and long-time MSB empoyee, received a commemorative token (jetong) to mark the 25th anniversary of the first Swedish mission in Kosovo. The token was presented personally by MSB’s Director General Mikael Frisell, in front of proud MSB colleagues.

– The Veterans Day is a truly special day – it brings us together across agencies and generations. I feel proud and moved to receive this token from our Director General. We’re already looking forward to next year, says Pär.

Pär has served on missions for MSB, the former Rescue Services Agency, and the Swedish Armed Forces, in countries such as Afghanistan, Sudan, Mali, Liberia, Sierra Leone, Iraq, Kosovo, Nigeria and Ukraine. His first deployment was in 1999, and his most recent mission was just two years ago.

MSB Director General Mikael Frisell offered his appreciation to all who have served:

–The Veterans Day is a time to honor those who have contributed to building resilience in the face of disasters, crises and conflict. MSB’s deployed staff have saved lives and promoted peace and safety across the world. You represent one of society’s most vital resources – the will and capacity to help others. I want every one of you to know how proud and thankful we are for your service.