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Estonian Defence League Soldiers participate in US Army's Swift Response 23

By Spc. Steven Lee May 16, 2023

NURMSI, Estonia -- The Estonian Defence League is a voluntary national defense organization of the Republic of Estonia, under the management of the Ministry of Defence. In Estonia, a person aged 17-60 can volunteer to serve as a soldier for the defense of the country.

"They are the volunteers, who are coming and spending their free time to be a part of our home defense base with no additional payment," said Col. Viktor Kalnitski, Training Section Commander of Estonian Defence Forces Headquarters. "We are appreciative of their efforts for our home."

Pvt. Joel Randveer, a soldier who was originally a web page designer in his civilian career, decided to volunteer for the EDL one year ago.

While serving in the EDL, he admits to learning new skills such as leadership and quick thinking, which has helped him in his civilian career. Additionally, Randveer says he has also benefited by incorporating his civilian profession into helping his fellow soldiers out.

"When someone has problems with their mobile device or radio communications, I can help out due to my prior knowledge of this," said Randveer. "In my hands, there are no problems."

Randveer, along with other soldiers in his unit, is participating in Swift Response 23, which is part of DEFENDER 23. DEFENDER 23 is a U.S. Army Europe and Africa Command directed multi-national, joint exercise designed to build readiness and interoperability between U.S. and NATO allies and partners.

"My job today in this exercise is to hold my position and take down any paratroopers that come," said Randveer. "This training is important because we can join exercises with different groups and countries, while also giving us more coworkers, more exercises, and more knowledge."

During Swift Response 23, the EDL's soldiers work to improve their readiness for any future threats and wars against the country with their personnel dedicated to voluntarily protecting their home.

"My decision to join came from defending my home against any possible dangers," said Randveer. "My love for my home is the number one reason I joined the EDL."