The band of brothers and sisters

On Monday 4 April 2022, the Chair of the NATO Military Committee sent out a message to Allied troops in commemoration of the 73rd anniversary of the founding of the North Atlantic treaty Organisation. In his message Admiral Bauer praised the 3.2 million men and women in uniform for the work they do to keep Allied citizens safe. Together, they form a unique ‘band of brothers and sisters’. Separated by oceans, united by their determination. Admiral Bauer’s message was accompanied by music from the SHAPE International Band. Read the full text below.

To be part of something bigger.
To see the world.
To be there for others.
To fight for the “we”…  in a world of “me”

That is why people join the armed forces of NATO Allies.

To serve a greater good.
To protect freedom and democracy.
When civilians seek shelter, military personnel step up.

We are the shield for the innocent.
We are what stands between freedom and oppression.
That task… that life goal… is something that all men and women in uniform share with each other.

It forms an invisible bond that transcends wars and generations.
A bond you can feel.
Because you know what it means to serve.

To carry on when others stop.
To put yourself at the service of the group.
Prepared to make the ultimate sacrifice.

That bond is the foundation of our armed forces.
The boundless trust in each other.
The security of comradeship.
The band of brothers and sisters.

The military profession gives and demands a great deal.
Also from family and friends.
Sometimes… words no longer suffice… and music fills the silence.
It expresses what we feel: strength … unity … pride.

3.2 million men and women in uniform across this Alliance…
… are all working towards the same thing.
Separated by oceans, united in our determination.

Together… we are stronger.
Together… we are more.
Together… we are NATO.