The Leader of the Islamic Republic of Iran and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, Ayatollah Sayyid Ali Khamenei, attended a ceremony at Imam Ali (greetings be upon him) Military Academy on Wednesday, December 21.
The ceremony marked the completion of the third preliminary combat training program of the cadets of various military academies of the Islamic Republic of Iran's Army.
At the beginning of the ceremony, the anthem of the Islamic Republic of Iran was played when the Leader entered the parade ground. Then, Ayatollah Khamenei paid homage to the honorable martyrs of the Islamic Republic of Iran's Army in front of the Martyrs Memorial.
Afterwards, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces reviewed the military units present on the parade ground.
Speaking at the ceremony, Ayatollah Khamenei referred to the Iranian armed forces as the symbol of power and dignity of the Iranian nation. He emphasized that, today, membership in the Iranian armed forces is a cause of pride and honor for the Iranian servicemen.
"The armed forces of the Islamic Republic of Iran are campaigning for noble human ideals and objectives, since in addition to their duty of defending their homeland, they are also entrusted with the major duty of safeguarding human ideals and protecting honor and dignity of mankind," the Leader told the audience.
Further in his statements, the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces pointed out that the world's nations are being threatened by the global hegemonic system headed by the United States. He stressed that under such circumstances, nations have no alternative but to become strong, trust in Almighty Allah, boost their self-confidence and rely on their intrinsic potentials and capabilities.
"In order for nations to become strong, they should try to enhance their economic, scientific and political capabilities. In particular, boosting their military and defensive power is one of the most urgent necessities of nations under the present circumstances," Ayatollah Khamenei noted.
Elsewhere in his remarks, the Leader of the Islamic Republic stated that the preparedness of the armed forces and their standing firm by the nation will instill the public with national confidence and peace of mind. He also described increased military training, maintaining discipline, boosting faith and determination and observing Islamic ethics as among the main duties of the armed forces.
In conclusion, Ayatollah Khamenei placed emphasis on sincere cooperation among various military forces and organizations and their sharing of their valuable experience.
The Chancellor of Imam Ali (greetings be upon him) Military Academy Brigadier General Poordastan, also speaking at the ceremony, presented a report about the third preliminary combat training program of the cadets of various military academies of the Islamic Republic of Iran's Army.
Furthermore, a number of war-disabled veterans, former prisoners of war, families of martyrs and exemplary cadets and military instructors received awards from the Leader of the Islamic Republic.
At the end of the ceremony, the military units present on the parade ground marched past the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces.