Distinguished Chief of Defense,

Commander of the Air Force,

Members of the Medical Team,

Welcome home. I would like to express our sincere
appreciation to the Government of the Netherlands, the MFA, in particular the
DoD, and the Ministry of the Interior for their work. I also wish to thank the
Dutch people for their generosity and kindness with a special reference to the
Giro555 campaign.

I would like to welcome our brave friends, the DoD
medical team, who participated in the transportation operations after the
devastating earthquakes in Türkiye.

You not only saved their lives, but also their remaining
families and their future.

The earthquake
struck a huge area. It was catastrophic. It devastated 10 provinces equal to
twice of the Netherlands.

We witnessed how people from different parts of the
world, including the Netherlands, came together to extend their hand to us.

The DoD medical team, the Dutch USAR team and other
private NGOs and people were among the many that responded to the call of
humanitarian duty.

The team's commitment to their duty and for those who
are in need was truly remarkable. You demonstrated a unique bravery.For that, we are
grateful.

Thank you.