Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky, Minister of Defense, said Hungary has survived for over a thousand years and remained Christian because “there were always those who took up arms and fought bravely when it was necessary.” He made the remarks on Tuesday in Budapest at the commissioning ceremony of young military officers held at the Church of Our Lady of Hungarians in Tisztviselőtelep.

Addressing the event, which also served as the ceremonial send-off for newly commissioned officers, the minister noted that the oath taken by the cadets is a commitment to both the country and the entire Hungarian nation. He emphasized the continuation of Ludovika traditions, meeting “before God’s presence” to seek blessing for the path ahead.

He highlighted that the Hungarian Defense Forces are becoming fully modernized, equipped with high-tech weaponry in the hands of well-prepared soldiers. He stressed that the officer corps must be known for “honorable patriotism and unquestionable competence,” and that today’s young officers are not afraid to pair their professional dedication with a request for divine blessing, even in a secular, materialist age.

The minister urged the young officers to join the renewed armed forces with humility, determination, and moral clarity. “Lead those entrusted to you, prepare them well for their duties, and if fate demands—though may God spare us—stand with them, armed, against the enemy,” he said.

Szalay-Bobrovniczky concluded by stating that being a soldier is not just one profession among many, but a calling that demands full commitment, heart, and Christian humility. He reminded the new officers that “a free and truly Christian Hungary cannot exist without your devoted service.”