Luxembourg Army Gets New Flag with Grand Duke Guillaume's Monogram

On Tuesday 11 November 2025, the Luxembourg Army celebrated its patron saint, Saint Martin, at the Grand-Duc Jean barracks in Diekirch.

The event took place in the presence of Grand Duke Guillaume, who was also celebrating his 44th birthday, and Luxembourg’s Minister of Defence, Yuriko Backes. This year’s celebration was marked by the unveiling of the Luxembourg Army’s new flag, bearing the monogram of the new sovereign.

Chaplain Lieutenant-Colonel Nicolas Wenner opened the official speeches (delivered in Luxembourgish), noting that Saint Martin’s Day is an occasion for gratitude and joy. Addressing Grand Duke Guillaume, he said the new Commander of the Army was a symbol of stability and continuity for the country. “Mir wëlle bleiwe wat mir sinn,” he stated, referring to Luxembourg's national motto (meaning: “We want to remain what we are”) and describing the Grand Duchy as “a small, wonderful country that can be proud of its history and its royal house.”

He spoke about the importance of gratitude, calling it “the greatest strength in life”. Reflecting that people today may not be grateful enough (in an uncertain world), he cited John F. Kennedy’s famous words: “Ask not what your country can do for you, ask what you can do for your country”. He expressed respect and gratitude for soldiers’ commitment.

Lieutenant-Colonel Wenner shared his birthday wishes with the new head of state, who received a birthday present on stage. The military band then played a lively rendition of Queen’s “Don't Stop Me Now”.

Colonel Alain Schoeben, Commander of the Armed Forces, also wished the Grand Duke a happy birthday. He spoke about the historic significance of military flags, noting that “the meaning of the flag expresses attachment to the country and to the Crown. It is a symbol of unity, solidarity and esprit de corps.” He also thanked French and Belgian army colleagues for their attendance.

General Steve Thull, Chief of Staff of the Luxembourg Army, then presented the "Chief of Staff of the Army's Sword of Honour" (Épée d'honneur du chef d'état-major de l'Armée) to Luxembourgish military personnel in recognition of their outstanding performance during their initial training: Lieutenant Kieffer received the Sword of Honour, while Sergeant Saadani, Sergeant Mossong and Sergeant Engel received the Dagger of Honour.

In her speech, Minister Backes noted the significance of this year’s Saint Martin’s Day, with the unveiling of the new flag - a symbolic act reflecting the Grand Duke’s role as Commander of the Army. She highlighted the importance of solidarity, as “a fundamental value of our Armed Forces”, adding that it “is the foundation of our strength, our commitment to our country and our citizens”, as well as Luxembourg’s contribution to NATO and EU efforts. She described Russia as “the biggest and very real threat to our security” at present and affirmed Luxembourg’s ongoing solidarity with its allies. She expressed respect for soldiers, who are on the frontline and stressed the need for adequate compensation to make the military career more attractive. She congratulated the four soldiers receiving honours on this occasion, later also wishing the sovereign a happy birthday.

Following the speeches, Grand Duke Guillaume, accompanied by General Steve Thull, formally presented the new flag of the Luxembourg Army, which replaces that bearing the monogram of his father, former Grand Duke Henri, who abdicated on 3 October 2025. This new flag features the initials “GG”, and the gesture symbolises Grand Duke Guillaume's assumption of command of the army.

The ceremony concluded with the national anthem, performed by the military band and sung by Stéphanie Schlink. This was followed by a reception for invited guests.