From Estonian Public Broadcasting:  President Toomas Hendrik Ilves presented admiral James Stavridis, NATO’s supreme allied commander in Europe, the first class Order of the Cross of the Eagle.

Ilves said the admiral had an important role in developing NATO’s defense plan for the Baltic countries and Poland, and noted that he is currently overseeing the Baltic air policing mission.

"The [medal] represents our utmost recognition for your work for both our country and for ensuring a vigorous defense for our democratic alliance," Ilves said in a statement. (photo: Office of the President of Estonia)

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