100-year-old veteran Viljo Pastila addresses national ceremony: “We never abandoned comrades then, and we won’t now”

Finland’s oldest living war veteran, 100-year-old Viljo Pastila, delivered a keynote speech at the national Veterans’ Day ceremony in Mikkeli on Saturday, urging Finns to trust in shared values and the future, reports Yle.

“Dark clouds gather on the horizon of the Finnish home, stirring painful memories and fears for what lies ahead,” Pastila declared in his address. Born in December 1925, he was among the final conscripts sent to the front during World War II, participating in battles including the defense against the Soviet landing at Tuulos on Lake Syväri in June 1944.

Reflecting on survival through war and reconstruction, Pastila emphasized resilience: “Our generation endured with shared values, the right attitude, and sheer will. These same strengths will carry us today. We never abandoned comrades then, and we won’t now.” His remarks drew sustained applause from the audience, which included President Alexander Stubb and his spouse, Suzanne Innes-Stubb.

The national ceremony began with a wreath-laying at Mikkeli Market Square. Yle spoke to attendees about finding hope in uncertain times. Student Saana Pietilä admitted avoiding war news due to its depressing nature but noted that local community events in Mikkeli foster solidarity. Elisa Sysivirta, 24, said discussions with her daughter reinforced her belief that future generations would defend their homeland if necessary: “Our parents and grandparents survived harsh times—so will we.”

Pastila, the last surviving veteran from his hometown of Padasjoki, previously told Yle in 2025 that he laments the loss of civility in modern society: “Culture has vanished from people.”