Lithuanian-American Nominated for Army’s Leadership

President Valdas Adamkus nominated the incumbent defense vice-minister, Lithuanian-American Jonas Kronkaitis for the office of Commander-in-Chief on June 10th.

Kronkaitis, a reserve Colonel of the U.S. army, notified Adamkus of permission which U.S. institutions gave to him to occupy a high-ranking military position in Lithuania. Permission from the Pentagon and the State Department enabled him to safeguard his pension as American reserve officer and other social security guarantees.

"I think my contribution to the army can be significant, and I will try to do my best to make the armed forces of Lithuania stronger," the nominee said after an interview with President Adamkus. Speaking about his required duties, Kronkaitis said he would continue the launched reforms in the army by focusing on training of officers and non-commissioned officers pursuant to NATO standards.

"One of the major problems is that we lack well-trained personnel. Therefore, training officers and non-commissioned officers remains a priority task," he said. According to the officer, Lithuanian troops are armed in accordance with current needs.

"With growth and improvement of the army, more advanced arms will be purchased. For instance, at the moment we do not need bombers or a strong artillery." Kronkaitis continued.

Sixty-four year old Kronkaitis is an expert of military machines. His previous career included such positions as that of inspector general in the U.S. army headquarters and director general of the Rock Island Arsenal. He had served in different units for 27 years, including two years in the Vietnam War.

Prior to his appointment as Lithuanian defense vice-minister, he had worked with the group of Lithuanian-American officers who coordinated a State security plan outlining the creation of efficient military forces brought in line with NATO norms.

In Lithuania the Commander-in-Chief is appointed by parliament, if nominated by the president. That will occur within the next few weeks if Kronkaitis receives Parliamentary approval.