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Turkish female cadets top Türkiye’s National Defense University graduation

Turkish female cadets top Türkiye’s National Defense University graduation President Erdogan presents the diploma to valedictorian student Seyda Yildirim (R) during National Defense University (MSU) Naval War College Commencement and Flag Handover Ceremony in Tuzla, Istanbul, Türkiye, August 31, 2024. (AA Photo)
By Newsroom
Sep 1, 2024 12:50 AM

Türkiye’s National Defense University (MSU) held its Diploma and Flag Handover Ceremony for the Army, Naval, and Air War Colleges, with President Recep Tayyip Erdogan in attendance. This year’s graduation ceremony was notably influenced by the achievements of Turkish female cadets.

Turkish female cadets top Türkiye’s National Defense University graduation
Türkiye’s first female military officer, Communications Colonel Inci Arcan, a graduate of the Turkish Military Academy. (Photo via Interior Ministry)

The torch, originally lit by Türkiye’s first female officer, 86-year-old Retired Communications Colonel Inci Arca, was passed to the female cadets who graduated at the top of their classes.

Top graduates of National Defense University War Colleges

  • Lieutenant Ebru Eroglu: Top honor at the Army War College
  • Lieutenant Seyda Yildirim: Top honor at the Naval War College
  • Lieutenant Ikra Kuyumcu: Led her class at the Air War College
Turkish female cadets top Türkiye’s National Defense University graduation
President Erdogan gives Ebru Eroglu (R), the valedictorian of the Land War College, her diploma during Commencement and Flag Handover Ceremony of National Defense University in Ankara, Türkiye, August 30, 2024. (AA Photo)

These distinguished female graduates received their diplomas directly from President Erdogan, highlighting their significant accomplishments.

Turkish female cadets top Türkiye’s National Defense University graduation
President Erdogan delivers Ikra Kuyumcu, the valedictorian of the Air War College, her diploma during the National Defense University (MSU) Air War College Commencement and Flag Handover Ceremony in Istanbul, Türkiye, August 31, 2024. (AA Photo)

During his speech at the ceremony, President Erdogan expressed his pride, stating, “I am particularly delighted to note that our female cadets have taken the top honors at the graduation ceremonies of the Army, Naval, and Air War Colleges. This is a special badge of honor for us. It clearly demonstrates that our women can succeed, and not only succeed but excel, especially as soldiers.”

Last Updated:  Sep 8, 2024 9:47 AM