Military historian: 'Modern special forces trace their origins to post-war partisans'
Giedrius Petkevičius discusses the origins and reputation of Lithuania's special operations forces in an interview about his book.
In an interview on the show 'New Day' aired by Lrytas, military historian and writer Giedrius Petkevičius elaborated on his book titled 'Kites – The History of the Lithuanian Special Forces'. He shed light on how modern Lithuanian special operations forces are regarded as some of the best in the world, tracing their origins back to the anti-Soviet partisans of the post-war era. This connection is significant as it highlights the deep-seated military traditions within Lithuania shaped by historical resistance movements.
Petkevičius noted that the Lithuanian special operations forces, while being the smallest unit in the armed forces, operate under a veil of secrecy, contributing to their elite status. He underlined their adaptability and efficiency, showcasing the training and operations that these units undergo to maintain their high reputation internationally. The history captured in his book provides insight not only into the evolution of military tactics but also into the identity of modern Lithuanian defense strategies.
The discussion also touches on the broader implications of recognizing the historical roots of special forces, as it may inspire a renewed sense of national pride and awareness of the country's military history. Petkevičius’s work serves to educate both the public and military personnel about the importance of understanding the past as a foundation for current military accomplishments and the strategic direction of Lithuanian defense initiatives.