On Thursday 1 May Latvia celebrated its 10th anniversary as a member of the European Union. During the past decade Latvian National Armed Forces have made a significant contribution to EU operations, including the EU’s counter-piracy mission off the coast of Somalia, Operation Atalanta.

Latvian Navy Sergeant, Aleksandrs Stepancuks, is currently serving as a member of the international staff on board the EU Naval Force flagship, FGS Brandenburg, and to mark the special 10th anniversary, the Force Headquarters staff came together on the warship’s flight deck for a group photograph.

Speaking about the celebration, the 32 year old Latvian Navy Sergeant said “It is a pleasure and honour to be part of the international staff on board the EU flagship and I really appreciate that I have been able to celebrate this special day with my EU comrades.”

 The EU Force Commander, Rear Admiral zur Mühlen added “I am extremely proud of my international staff and their determination to achieve our common goal of deterring and disrupting piracy off the Horn of Africa.”