Gitanas Nausėda conferred the state decoration to Mark Thomas Esper for his contribution to strengthening strategic defense cooperation between the United States and Lithuania, personal efforts to consolidate the U.S. and NATO security commitments to Lithuania as well as support to building up American security measures in Lithuania and enhancing Lithuania’s defense capabilities.
“As Secretary of Defense, Mark Thomas Esper has demonstrated on numerous occasions that the United States is committed to defending the Baltic States against any aggression, especially against the threats posed by Russia. The U.S. ground forces battalion was deployed in Lithuania for continuous rotations during his term in office,” the President said.
Admiral António Manuel Fernandes da Silva Ribeiro was awarded for his special merits to promoting and expanding relations between Lithuania and Portugal, ensuring regional security and advancing Lithuania’s armed defense.
“Admiral António Manuel Fernandes da Silva Ribeiro has extended his continued solidarity and commitment to Lithuania. The Admiral directly supported military cooperation between Lithuania and Portugal. His efforts have enabled Lithuanian troops to train together with Portuguese rotational units,” the President said.
