Commander Wolter Sillevis Smitt, Director of the Directorate of International Military Cooperation at the Ministerie van Defensie, presented LtCol den Hollander with the Netherlands Military Decoration – Medal of Merit.

The medal was awarded for his exceptional work as Defence Attaché to Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia over the past five years. In this role, LtCol den Hollander built a strong network of military and diplomatic contacts, significantly enhancing cooperation between the Netherlands and the Baltic States. His dedication and professionalism have left a lasting impact on regional security and international military collaboration. This well-deserved award reflects his commitment to excellence and to strengthening the Netherlands’ defence diplomacy.

The ceremony took place in the presence of friends and colleagues, including Chief of Defence of Lithuanian Armed forces General RAIMUNDAS VAIKSNORAS, Deputy Head of Mission in Estonia Linda Piersma, NATO Force Integration Unit Lithuania Commander Colonel Peter Nielsen and many others who have worked closely with LtCol den Hollander during his tenure.

Congratulations, LtCol den Hollander, and thank you for your exemplary service!