In 30.11.1939 the President of the Republic has appointed me the Commander-in-Chief of the Finnish Armed Forces.

The brave soldiers of Finland!

I am starting the execution of my duties in the moment when our centuries-old enemy has attacked our country again. The trust to the leader is the first condition of the success. You know me and I know You and I believe that each of You is ready to fulfil his duty even by the cost of his life.

This war is nothing else than continuation of our Liberation War and its last action.

We struggle for our homes, for our Faith and for our Fatherland.