The Order of Freedom
The Order of Freedom is the highest decoration of the Republic of Slovenia. President Milan Kucan conferred this honor on General Clark in February of 2000. In his presentation speech, President Kucan thanked General Clark for his pivotal role in bringing stability to a situation that had become critical by using diplomatic as well as military means.
He also offered his personal views of General Clark:
Dear friend, Wesley Clark, I still very well remember the personal talks we have held.
You are a broad-minded individual with an outstanding mastery of your field. You know how to listen, you consider other peoples' different opinions and arguments. You judge events through superb military knowledge and your decisions comprise a brilliant political analysis, taking account of the history and the characteristics of the environment they concern. I am sure that once historians will be judging the events of our times from a distance, they will come to the same conclusions.”
“The Silver Order of Freedom I confer on you today on behalf of the Republic of Slovenia is our country's reward and recognition for your work to the benefit of Slovenia and peace in Europe.
I am indeed delighted and honored to be able to do so and I congratulate you. At the same time I would like to wish you every satisfaction with the work you will be pursuing in the future. I do not doubt in your success.
I invite you to remain our friend, my friend. I stand convinced that this will be the case. Please know that you are always welcome among us.”
According to the official decree, the Minister of Defense, Eduardo Saws Rexach, conferred the medal in recognition of the outstanding meritorious services that General Clark exhibited in his position as Supreme Allied Commander-Europe.
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