October 1, 1997 Tallinn
Remarks by U.S. Charge d'Affaires Walter Andrusyszyn
at the Turn-Over Ceremony of the "Valvas."
As the President noted, the sun has decided to come out for this occasion. What a wonderful blessing from the heavens. When the Bittersweet was handed over to the Estonian Border Guards, at a
ceremony in the United States last month, the former American Captain of the ship had tears in his eyes. Yes, it is a 50 year-old ship, but it has been refitted, and rebuilt with new engines and
communications equipment. It is a fine ship, and one of the best on the high seas.
Like the Tori horse, this cutter is a work horse. Its crane can lift 20 tons, and it can break through ice one meter thick. It is capable of control, search and rescue, cargo transfer and buoy
repair. Estonian fishermen who sailed under the Soviet flag will remember seeing it patrolling George's Bank fishing area off the Alaska coast. Often it ordered Soviet fishing vessels to leave.
Not only is it a ship in excellent condition, it is also a thrifty vessel. Despite its size, it uses little fuel and could have steamed from Cape Cod to Tallinn and back on one tank.
It is a very fitting vessel for the Estonian Border Guards. And for Estonia's defense capabilities. The Estonian Border Guard Maritime Fleet and its command are truly excellent in our view and
it is only a question of time and some additional resources before the Estonian Coast Guard can rank with those of Sweden, the U.K., Canada, and even the United States. Our Coast Guard officers
were very impressed with the professionalism and excellent work of the Estonian officers.
The contribution of the Bittersweet is another indication of United States' commitment to preparing Estonia for membership in the cornerstone institutions of the Atlantic Community. For
Estonia, the former Bittersweet represents a major contribution to maintaining peace and safety off Estonia's coast line.
The Bittersweet has found a new home port. Welcome home, Valvas.
Back to index
