Military oath in the Estonian Defence Forces is taken by conscripts or professional soldiers in the end of their basic training (10 weeks).[1] The oath is also given by volunteers of the Estonian Defence League, when they complete their basic training (5 weekends).[2]
The oath ceremony is held either at the garrison or in another symbolic place, for example the Guard Battalion gives their oath in location of the Battle of Sõjamäe. The relatives of the conscript's are usually invited to attend the ceremony.[3] The person taking the oath of serviceman has to sign the text of the oath, noting also the date of taking the oath.[4]
I, (given name and surname), swear to remain faithful to the democratic Republic of Estonia and its constitutional order, to defend the Republic of Estonia against enemies with all my reason and strength, to be ready to sacrifice my life for the fatherland, to observe the discipline of the Defence Forces, and to perform all my duties precisely and unquestioningly, bearing in mind that otherwise I will be strictly punished by law.[4]
I vow to remain loyal to the democratic Republic of Estonia [...] ready at any time to sacrifice my life for the good of the country, following the example of my comrades who have fallen in battle.[5]
