A detailed report on the November 15 Lithuanian National Guard event in Chicago, highlighting ceremonies, new members, service awards, guest remarks, and ongoing work across the U.S. Guard community.
On November 15, the Lithuanian National Guard (Lietuvos Šaulių Sąjunga Išeivijoje, LŠSI) brought together members, families, diplomats, and guests from several U.S. states for a significant community event in Chicago. The gathering marked two major anniversaries: the 107th anniversary of the founding of the Lithuanian Armed Forces and the 90th anniversary of the creation of the Lithuanian Naval Forces. The ceremony reflected service, responsibility, and ongoing unity among Lithuanians living abroad.
The day started with a prayer service at the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Participants prayed for the well-being of current and former service members worldwide. After the service, attendees moved to the courtyard of the Chicago Youth Center, where the monument dedicated to those who died for Lithuania’s freedom stands. As the flags of Lithuania, the United States, and the Lithuanian National Guard were brought in, the crowd paused to honor all who worked, fought, and sacrificed for the country’s independence.
Retired Major Mindaugas Babonas, a Lithuanian Armed Forces veteran and volunteer defender of Lithuania’s independence, lit the ceremonial flame. A wreath was placed at the monument by Robertas Sidlauskas, a volunteer reservist of the Lithuanian National Defense Volunteer Forces. After a moment of silence, the ceremony moved to one of its most meaningful moments: the oath of new members.
Seven New Members Join the Guard
Seven individuals from three U.S. states raised their hands and took the solemn oath. The oath was read on behalf of the LŠSI leadership by Gintautas Vasilevskis, advisor to the Commander.
New Members Who Took the Oath
- Rasa McKean, new member, planning to reestablish a Guard unit in New York
- Daiva Binginaite, new member, Omaha Vytis Guard Unit
- Palmira Mendez, new member, Omaha Vytis Guard Unit
- Arvydas Urbonavicius, new member, Omaha Vytis Guard Unit; Chair of the Lithuanian American Community Council
- Raminta Urbonaviciene, new member, Omaha Vytis Guard Unit
- Father Gediminas Kersys, new member and chaplain of the Klaipeda Marine Guard Unit
- Bona Sileika, new member, Klaipeda Marine Guard Unit
After the oaths, Lieutenant Colonel Gedas Virbukas, acting Lithuanian Defense Attaché to the United States and Canada, congratulated the new members. The insignia were presented by Ovidijus Bernatonis, Commander of the Lithuanian National Guard in Exile.
Growth of the Lithuanian National Guard
During the last three years, the Guard has expanded across the United States. Three new units have been established, increasing the total to twelve.
New and Growing Guard Units
- A. Ramanauskas-Vanagas Eastern Florida Guard Unit – founded by Klemensas Petrus; led by Vytautas Orentas;
- Algirdas Guard Unit (San Francisco, California) – founded and led by Vita Gailiunaite;
- Omaha Vytis Guard Unit (Nebraska) – founded by Arvydas Urbonavicius, Raminta Urbonaviciene, and Unit Leader Arturas Bereisa.
More than forty individuals have taken the Guard oath during this period, strengthening Lithuanian identity and community life across the diaspora.
Official Program: Speeches, Honors, and Guest Delegations
After the outdoor program, guests moved into the Youth Center hall for the formal part of the event. The program opened with the United States and Lithuanian national anthems, followed by a moment of silence and an invocation delivered by Father Gediminas Kersys.
Commander Ovidijus Bernatonis welcomed the guests and emphasized the historical importance of the Armed Forces anniversary. He thanked members and supporters for strengthening the Guard’s mission across the diaspora.
Notable guests included Ramune Staneviciene, Executive Vice Chair of the Lithuanian American Community. Gintautas Vasilevskis read a message from General Raimundas Vaiksnoras, Commander of the Lithuanian Armed Forces. Deputy Commander Roma Bikulcius delivered greetings from Tomas Godliauskas, Vice Minister of National Defense.
Address from the Consul General
Regimantas Jablonskas, Consul General of Lithuania in Chicago, delivered a speech reminding attendees that Lithuania’s freedom was earned through dedication and sacrifice. He highlighted the importance of service, community involvement, and unity among Lithuanians living abroad.
After his remarks, he presented the Second Class Service Distinction Badge of the Lithuanian National Guard to Commander Ovidijus Bernatonis for strengthening the Guard, expanding its structure, and supporting its mission across U.S. communities.
Remarks from the Lithuanian Embassy in Washington, D.C.
Zilvinas Tomkus, Defense Advisor at the Lithuanian Embassy, thanked the Guard and Lithuanian Americans for honoring both U.S. Veterans Day and Lithuania’s Armed Forces Day during the same season. He spoke about shared responsibility and the importance of maintaining a culture of service.
He emphasized that the founding of Lithuania’s Armed Forces is linked to the restoration of statehood, giving the anniversary deep national meaning for Lithuanians everywhere.
What the Diaspora Can Do Today
Arvydas Urbonavicius, Chair of the Lithuanian American Community Council and newly sworn-in Guard member, encouraged attendees to reflect on the meaning of Lithuanian identity in the diaspora. He stated that Lithuania’s strength depends on its people, including those living abroad.
He noted that joining Lithuanian organizations and the Guard is not a hobby but a conscious response to today’s responsibilities. His remarks invited others to consider how they, too, can support national security and cultural continuity.
Greetings from the United Kingdom
Inesa Makaras, leader of the General T. Daukantas Marine Guard Unit, read a message from Tomas Juraitis, head of the Lithuanian National Guard Unit in the United Kingdom.
Guard Star Medal and Recognition
Commander Ovidijus Bernatonis presented the Guard Star Medal (Šaulių Žvaigždės Medalis) to Retired Major Mindaugas Babonas for his long-standing contribution to national defense, his service during the independence movement, and his support of youth Guard programs in the United States.
Acknowledgment of Volunteers
Certificates of appreciation were awarded for support during youth programs in 2024 and 2025.
Volunteers Recognized
- Robertas Sidlauskas, instructor and volunteer
- Felicija Jablonskis, volunteer
- Linas Jablonskis, volunteer
- Jurate Gricius, volunteer
- Julius Bruzas, volunteer
- Dr. Arvydas Urbonas, volunteer
- Inesa Makaras, Unit Leader, General T. Daukantas Marine Guard Unit
Emilija Putvinskiene 150th Anniversary Medals
The commemorative part of the program continued with a special presentation of medals honoring the 150th anniversary of Emilija Putvinskiene. She is remembered as an essential figure in the early development of the Lithuanian National Guard. The medals and accompanying certificates recognized women who have contributed to community work, national identity, and the Guard’s mission across the diaspora. The honor symbolized respect for long-term dedication and steady support.
Recipients of the Emilija Putvinskiene 150th Anniversary Medal
- Audrone Zakaraukas, Vytautas the Great Unit
- Dale Blekiene, Vytautas the Great Unit
- Rasa Marganaviciene, Vytautas the Great Unit
- Zita Bagdziuviene, Vytautas the Great Unit
- Regina Butkus, Baltic Guard Unit Leader
- Inesa Makaras, General T. Daukantas Marine Guard Unit Leader
- Regina Kava, Deputy Commander (LŠSI), General T. Daukantas Unit
- Danute Obeliene, General T. Daukantas Unit
- Vita Gailiunaite, Algirdas Unit Leader
- Elena Belickiene, J. Daumantas Ground Guard Unit
- Regina Heller, J. Daumantas Ground Guard Unit
- Nijole Bartasiene, A. Ramanauskas-Vanagas Unit
- Genovaite Osinskiene, R. Kalanta Unit
- Irena Peciulis, V. Putvinskis Unit
- Irena Salaviejiene, Klaipeda Marine Guard Unit
- Roma Bikulcius, Deputy Commander (LŠSI)
- Silvija Motiejunas, LŠSI Secretary
- Vilma Kava, Guard supporter
Commander Ovidijus Bernatonis and Silvija Motiejunas handled the presentation. They carried out the task on behalf of the V. Putvinskis-Putvis Club, which oversees the medal program.
Recognition from Embassy Officials
The next part of the program focused on recognizing service and commitment with tokens of appreciation. Defense Advisor Zilvinas Tomkus and Lieutenant Colonel Gedas Virbukas presented gifts to several Guard members for their support of the organization and for strengthening Lithuanian identity across the diaspora.
Gift Recipients
- Dr. Robertas Vitas, longtime supporter and head of the Lithuanian Studies and Research Center
- Silvija Motiejunas, LŠSI Secretary
- Arturas Bereisa, Unit Leader of the Omaha Vytis Guard Unit
Dr. Vitas and Secretary Motiejunas received commemorative scarves, while Bereisa was presented with a Lithuanian national flag in recognition of his years of service since 1990.
Acknowledgment of Embassy Guests from Washington
Before the evening program continued, Commander Ovidijus Bernatonis and advisor Gintautas Vasilevskis thanked the delegation from Washington, D.C. They presented remembrance gifts to:
Guests Recognized
- Zilvinas Tomkus, Defense Advisor, Lithuanian Embassy
- Lieutenant Colonel Gedas Virbukas, acting Defense Attaché to the U.S. and Canada
- Andrius Jankeliunas, Deputy Defense Attaché
These gestures expressed gratitude for the ongoing cooperation between the Lithuanian National Guard in Exile and the Lithuanian Ministry of National Defense.
Historical Memory Projects
The program then shifted to current heritage projects supported by Guard members in Lithuania and abroad. Ernestas Lukosevicius, aide to the Commander in Lithuania, spoke about the ongoing historical work related to Colonel Lieutenant Feliksas Vaitkus. Vaitkus, a Lithuanian American pilot and honorary Guard member, became known internationally in 1935 when he flew across the Atlantic in the aircraft Lituanica II and landed in Ireland due to aircraft issues.
Lukosevicius described recent events marking the 1935 flight’s anniversary, including commemorations in Lithuania, Ireland, and several U.S. locations, such as Chicago and Wisconsin. These efforts helped preserve the story of a Lithuanian American whose achievement raised Lithuania’s name worldwide.
He also spoke about the memory project honoring Naval Captain Major Antanas Kaskelis. In connection with the 90th anniversary of the Lithuanian Naval Forces, a monument was unveiled in Klaipeda to honor early Navy captains.
Research completed in 2024 uncovered details about Kaskelis’s death in Poland. This discovery helped resolve a long-standing gap in Lithuania’s historical record. Plans are underway to mark his grave in the town of Swidwin, Poland. These efforts show the Guard’s commitment to preserving Lithuanian history beyond national borders.
Recipients of Feliksas Vaitkus Anniversary Badges
- Zilvinas Tomkus, Defense Advisor, Lithuanian Embassy
- Julius Rutenis Butkus, Honorary Commander of LŠSI
- Gintautas Vasilevskis, Advisor to the Commander (LŠSI)
These badges were presented to recognize support for the international commemorations.
Community, Birthdays, and Shared Time
The program also acknowledged Guard members with November birthdays. The guests sang a traditional birthday song together, adding a friendly tone to the event. After the formal part of the program ended, attendees were invited to enjoy a dinner prepared by members of the General T. Daukantas Unit. A birthday cake was shared, and guests had time to talk, reconnect, and meet new members.
During the meal, Vytautas Jurevicius and a small group of musicians performed. Their performance added a warm community feel to the evening and brought members together in a relaxed setting.
Music and Reflections from Major Mindaugas Babonas
The final portion of the event centered on a musical and historical program presented by Retired Major Mindaugas Babonas. Born in exile, Babonas is known for his service during the years leading to Lithuania’s independence and the early years of the Lithuanian Armed Forces.
He performed several patriotic songs and shared stories from the late 1980s and early 1990s, when Lithuania was regaining its independence. His memories offered insight into the risks and responsibilities taken by those who stood for the country during that period. The guitar he used for the performance was lent for the evening by musician and volunteer Ausra Jasaitis-Paulauskas.
His reflections reminded attendees that national service connects generations. Whether in Lithuania or abroad, the values of duty, identity, and community remain at the center of the Guard’s mission.
A Tradition That Continues
The celebration of Lithuania’s Armed Forces Day has become a yearly tradition for the Lithuanian National Guard in Exile. The Chicago event demonstrated the organization’s growing reach, the increasing number of active members in the United States, and the strong partnership between the diaspora and Lithuania’s national institutions.
The ceremony showed that the Guard continues to move forward – forming new units, welcoming new members, preserving history, and recognizing those whose work strengthens the community. It also revealed how many people across the country contribute to the mission of supporting Lithuania, even from far away.
Final Notes
The November 15 gathering in Chicago showed how strong and organized the Lithuanian National Guard community in the United States has become. With members arriving from several states, the event reflected shared values, commitment, and a clear sense of purpose. Each part of the program highlighted a different aspect of the Guard’s work: honoring service, adding new members, preserving history, and maintaining close ties with Lithuania’s national institutions.
The presence of diplomats, defense officials, and community leaders helped strengthen connections between Lithuania and its diaspora. Their messages focused on responsibility, unity, and steady support for Lithuania’s security and heritage. Through speeches, awards, music, and shared time, the event brought together people of different ages and backgrounds, all linked by service and identity.
As new units continue to form and more members join, the Guard’s work grows deeper across the United States. This event showed that the mission continues with a focus on supporting Lithuania, upholding community life, and carrying forward a tradition that connects past and present.
Event photos were captured by Viktorija Sileika, Nora Alonso, Silvija Motiejunas, and other community photographers.
Vilma Kava is a Lithuanian-American author and journalist with a strong interest in Lithuanian culture and history. She has written two books that explore Lithuania’s heritage and traditions. Vilma regularly writes for Draugas newspaper, offering articles that resonate with the Lithuanian diaspora. She also contributes to the Lithuanian National Guard Facebook page, sharing stories and content that promote community engagement and cultural awareness.
Silvija Motiejunas has been an active member of the Lithuanian National Guard’s “Klaipėda” Company since March 2024 and joined the LAC Marquette Park chapter board in June 2024. She is committed to preserving the history of the Lithuanian National Guard. Silvija records and shares events that matter to both Lithuanians and the wider community. Her work has appeared in local Lithuanian newspapers like “Draugas” and is now featured in the Chronicles and other parts of our website. Silvija’s writing reflects the spirit and activities that keep our cultural heritage alive.
LTNationalGuard is the voice of the Lithuanian diaspora, focused on reflecting the unity and spirit of the global Lithuanian National Guard community. As the main writer for sauliai.org, LTNationalGuard shares the experiences and values of the Guards, highlighting the ongoing effort to preserve Lithuanian heritage. Each piece of content connects with the community, capturing the essence of the National Guards and helping members stay connected worldwide.
