Croatian graduated at U.S. Coast Guard Academy

New London, Connecticut, May 19 – Croatian Ivana Pokrajcic graduated with high honors from U.S. Coast Guard Academy in New London at the Academy’s 123^rd Commencement Exercises.

Ivana Pokrajcic, Cadet First Class and future Croatian Army Liutenant, distinguished herself as an excellent student at the four years at the Academy, in a class that had two other non-American students, from Turkey.

“I am thankful for all the knowledge and skills I gained at the Academy”, said Ivana Pokrajcic, and continued: “Now I am getting ready to return to Croatia and apply them.”

The Vice President of the United States Richard Cheney addressed the graduates and their guests. Vice President stressed the importance of Coast Guard in protection of U.S. and war on terrorism.

Croatian Ambassador to U.S. Ivan Grdesic and Croatian defense attaché Damir Terzic were present at the graduation ceremony. Croatian national anthem was performed at the ceremony, and Croatian national flag was displayed. Traditionally, a senior government representative is present at the commencement activities and the graduate’s oath of office.

In his address, Ambassador Grdesic said “U.S. – Croatian partnership is not only supportive in nature, but also inspires Croatian citizens to strive for a better future, to join the NATO alliance and European Union. This is why I am honored today to congratulate all of you new officers on your fine achievement in graduating from this prestige institution, but especially to my Croatian compatriot Ivana Pokrajcic”.

He expressed his gratitude on cooperation that is also visible through schooling of Croatian officers at U.S. military schools. Ambassador said that for Croatia the importance of cooperation with Coast Guard is even greater as Croatia plans to develop its Coast Guard to protect Croatian sea and coast.

”I wish you every success in your future endeavors with the traditional Croatian send off for mariners, “may you have a calm sea”, said Croatian Ambassador.