Enriching lives in Estonia

On June 1, I had the honor and privilege to represent EUCOM during ribbon-cutting ceremonies in Puka and Voru Estonia. Here I witnessed both a glorious demonstration of the communities’ civic pride and an equally magnanimous gratitude for EUCOM’s partnership in completing these two worthy projects. A kinship with a people never met before developed easily over purposeful work done well and meaningfully.

Puka School Children performing native Estonian song and dance.

The first project was an approximately $317,000 renovation of the Puka School’s roof in Puka, Estonia. The school, built in the 1930s, has continually served as the consolidated school (grades 1-12) for Puka, teaching approximately 120 students every year. The original roof had seen its better days long ago and despite frequent repairs, the challenge to keep out rain was constant. Clearly, this renovation is a vast improvement and will undoubtedly protect Puka’s treasured school long past the time when the grandchildren of current students send their children to learn.

After a delightful and memorable performance of Estonian national song and dance by the school’s children, we had the ribbon cutting and plaque dedication by school and civic leaders, and  U.S. Embassy and EUCOM personnel.

The second project was a $259,000 exterior renovation of the South Estonia Hospital’s Special Needs Center in Voru. This project was the second and final renovation phase (previously the center had had an interior renovation done with European Union funding) to a facility that provides essential services to mentally disabled adults requiring assisted living.

South-Estonia Hospital Special Needs Center’s newly renovated exterior.

The dedication included a traditional dance by the center’s residents, a ceremony with local officials, and then breaking bread together in celebration. I left the center with a strong belief that EUCOM assistance had been put to important and necessary use and, moreover, that our assistance was highly valued and appreciated.

Looking at these pictures, I realize what a privilege it was to witness and take part in something that meant so much not only to Estonian civic leaders but more importantly to the students and residents whose lives will be directly and positively impacted by such quality of life improvement projects. No doubt, these renovations will help ensure that Puka and Voru children and adults will continue to receive services in secure and attractive buildings long into the future. I will remember this special June day and the warmth shared by many.

Mike C. Hartzell
Lt Col, USAF, BSC
International Health Specialist
EUCOM Command Surgeon's Office