15 May 2013, Tencholing: His Majesty The King granted an audience to the 7th batch of DeSuung Volunteers.
His Majesty told the volunteers that it is important to know our history in order to understand where we stand at present, and to get a clear idea of where we are going in the future.
“We have a glorious history that we should be proud of,” His Majesty said. “Our ancestors and Kings and have worked hard to ensure that our country remained safe and secure, and have built a strong and independent nation.”
One of the greatest achievements of His Majesty the Fourth Druk Gyalpo was leading the country into democracy, His Majesty said.
However, His Majesty reminded the volunteers that democracy is not the goal, but the means to an end, and the end is greater peace, prosperity, security and happiness of the people of Bhutan.
His Majesty spoke to the DeSuups about the challenges Bhutan faces as a small landlocked country, and reminded them that we must stick to our core fundamentals and navigate wisely through change.
“We are a strong people. We have unmatched tenacity and strength. We must reinforce and preserve these values in you, and you must pass it on to the future generations,” His Majesty said.
His Majesty said that the deep love that we have for our country is a constant source of inspiration.
“I am proud of you. You give me motivation, reinforce my sense of duty, and remind me why I love serving my country,” His Majesty said.
The 7th batch DeSuung training began on 11th April and concluded on 14th May. The 119 men and women received a five week Disaster Management, First Aid, Survival, value-based and physical training.
So far, 571 men and 251 women have undergone the DeSuung training since its inception in February 2011.
Good portait photo, I like their official uniforms.
