On June 3, Col. Aivar Salekešin was presented the Legion of Merit award (degree of Commander) by U.S. Ambassador Levine at EDF headquarters in Tallinn in recognition of his outstanding performance as the former Estonian Defense, Military, Naval and Air Attaché in Washington D.C. Col. Salekešin’s citation, signed by former Secretary of Defense Chuck Hagel, said the Colonel was “a vital link between the Estonian Land Forces and the U.S. Army,” and that he “influenced and strengthened the bonds for the positive military-to-military relationship.” The Legion of Merit is a U.S. military award bestowed upon people “who shall have distinguished themselves by exceptionally meritorious conduct service in the performance of outstanding services.” The degree of Commander is conferred on members of foreign governments only and are awarded for services comparable to those for which the Distinguished Service Medal is given to members of the United States Armed Forces.     Photo by Estonian Defense Forces