Turkish female cadets top Türkiye’s National Defense University graduation

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.

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

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

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.”