President's Honour Guard Celebrates 23 Years since Inception

Bratislava, October 14 (TASR) - The Honour Guard of the Slovak president has celebrated 23 years since it was set up, the President Office's communications department told TASR on Monday, adding that for more than two decades, members of the unit have participated in more than 5,000 protocol activities - official visits and military honours. A total of 192 members serve in the Honour Guard at present - 172 men and 20 women. "They must meet strict conditions, not only having the physical prerequisites for the job, but also excellent mental endurance. A strong national feeling, pride and loyalty to the Slovak Republic are characteristic features of a member of the guard of honour. They create the first impression and image of Slovakia to important world politicians or personalities of social life before they are received by the head of state," added the office. The Honour Guard is a unit of the Slovak armed forces. One of its tasks is to guard the residence of the president, his/her guests and, in time of war, to protect the head of state and to defend his/her residence. The changing of the guard on the courtyard of the Presidential Palace is carried out each weekday at the stroke of noon. am/df