Minister withholds promise of veteran status for Arctic sailors

Denmark’s defence minister says he is open to reviewing whether sailors serving on Arctic ships should receive the same honours and veteran status as other deployed personnel, but he is making no promises, DR reports.

The soldiers of the 1st Squadron patrol dangerous waters around Greenland, enforce the Kingdom’s sovereignty and rescue people in distress. They are calling for equal recognition with other deployed Danish soldiers, including participation in Flag Day ceremonies, a medal and veteran status.

“We are continually working on our veteran policy, and we will continue to do so,” Defence Minister Jeppe Bruus of the Social Democrats said.

Flag Day is held to thank people who stand guard over Denmark. The Armed Forces describes it as a day honouring everyone who has put themselves at risk to protect the Kingdom and the values on which Denmark is built.

Several sources told DR that the lack of recognition on Flag Day, medals and access to veteran status have left the Arctic sailors feeling overlooked and insufficiently appreciated.

National operation excludes sailors from veteran status

The sailors do not currently qualify for veteran status because service around Greenland is classified as a national operation. Veteran status requires service in at least one international operation.

Those who qualify include soldiers deployed to Latvia at Denmark’s Camp Valdemar, where they help deter Russia and, if necessary, defend Latvia against an attack. It also includes Navy personnel serving with the European Union’s joint coast and border guard, Frontex, monitoring the EU’s external borders and helping to stop drug and human trafficking.

Veteran status provides lifelong support for service personnel and their relatives through the Veterans Centre. This can include psychological support, advice on careers, relationship courses and support groups for relatives.

Asked whether the distinction between national and international operations is fair, Bruus said it was reasonable to raise the question and that he was ready to examine where the boundary should lie.

“Veteran policy has developed considerably over the years, and I am of course open to looking at whether it should be different,” he said.