The Inauguration of President Valdas Adamkus

Because the new president had lived in the United States until a few years ago (though born in Lithuania), a number of Lithuanian-Americans had been invited. About a hundred Lithuanian-Americans traveled to Lithuania for the occasion but, only a few were able to attend the swearing in ceremonies in the Seimas. Some of the attendees were Stasys Baras, Grazina and James Liautaud, Al Kezelis, Vytautas Kamantas, and myself. Prominent at the ceremony was the ever gracious and lovely Mrs. Alma Adamkus.

The Glory of Freedom

After the swearing in ceremony at the Seimas, we were bused by caravan to the Cathedral for a High Mass at 1:00 p.m. The admittance for the Mass was again by invitation; however, many more people were able to attend the Mass. Immediately after the Mass, the Republic's military paraded in review, and

various Lithuanian town representatives in their regional costumes presented their towns' flags in the Cathedral Square.

The President took this opportunity to speak to his nation. He spoke of freedom, the glory of freedom, and the duty of all to respect the freedom of others. "The fire of freedom that is alive in the heart of every Lithuanian has never died. Today we sing the glory of freedom and let this word sound off in history and the present."

President Adamkus called the nation to create a contemporary society with underlying values of mutual understanding, support of the weak, sympathy and assistance to those in need, and consolation for those whose souls cry out for it. He reminded the large crowd of Lithuania's proud and ancient past, while pledging to strive for honesty, fairness, carefulness, and morality.

The President promised to serve, not to rule and called the people to join the work of rebuilding the nation. He emphasized that the main goal in his foreign policy remains the same: the European Union and NATO. He closed his remarks by saying, "Lithuania shall grow, so it must. We shall grow together with it. I am one of you. I am with you."

The crowd was moved; for he had read their hearts. As I looked over the thousands of people in the square, I spotted two flags being held together; the flags of Lithuania and the United States. I knew at that moment that the future of Lithuania was sound; for we stood together.

Immediately after the ceremonies at the Cathedral Square, the President proceeded to the Presidential Palace for the turn over of the presidency.

Celebrations

Inaugural celebrations took place in various places that evening. Most of the Lithuanian-Americans attended the inaugural ball at Rotuse Street, where we were met by a lively band. Upon entry we were served champagne and a sumptuous buffet feast, with exquisite Lithuanian desserts to end the dinner. It was a gala event long to be remembered.

The next day, at a Presidential reception for Lithuanian-Americans and others, I delivered the signed greetings of thousands of Lithuanian-Americans that were bound in two books by the Lithuanian-American Community. This served as a reminder that we stand ready, willing and able to help Lithuania whenever it is needed.

We, Lithuanian - Americans, are proud of Lithuania's new president. He is one of our own. In the time he lived in the United States, almost 50 years, he not only served the United States government but, also the Lithuanian-American Community Board of Directors. He brings to Lithuania many skills and experiences steeped in democracy, in a free market economy, and a commitment to strong ties with the West.

We wish him success as he leads Lithuania to a democratic, secure, stable, prosperous and free future.