Minister Lipavský emphasized that the Czech-US relationship is built on a number of pillars, emphasizing that the security cooperation was recently boosted by the Defense Cooperation Agreement and the modernization of the Czech Air Force. He also noted, “It is completed by the tangible cooperation in cyber security and strong economic and energy partnership with a close partnership in LNG supplies and nuclear energy cooperation.”

The Minister stated, “We are proud to create exciting synergies with US tech companies through our expertise in quantum technologies and artificial intelligence, fostering innovation and industrial growth. Lastly, we cherish the Czech diaspora across the US and promote close people-to-people and cultural ties.”

Minister Lipavský further underlined the deeply rooted transatlantic partnership, notably in NATO. He stressed the importance of allied unity, “particularly regarding defense spending, NATO’s readiness to respond to current threats, and our continued support for Ukraine.” The Minister stated, “Deterrence against Russia cannot be built without the United States.”

Ambassador of the Czech Republic Miloslav Stašek opened the celebration to commemorate Czech National Day. He began by noting that the friendship between future Czechoslovak President Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk and US President Woodrow Wilson and the support of the immigrant communities were instrumental in gaining the political influence for the formation of an independent democratic state at the end of WWI on October 28, 1918.

Ambassador Stašek then remembered the 80th anniversary since the end of WWII and the liberation of West Bohemia and the City of Pilsen by the US Army. He spoke about the continued defense and security collaboration between the Czech Republic and the United States, noting that the first edition of the Czech-US Defense and Security Forum was held last week. He then highlighted the cooperation between the Czech Republic and the National Guards of Nebraska and Texas. He also emphasized the strong partnership with the non-profit organization American Friends of the Czech Republic over the 30 years since its establishment.

The Ambassador also accentuated the strong Czech-US economic ties. He highlighted the growing number of Czech investments to the United States. He further thanked Prusa Research, a company founded by Czech inventor Josef Prusa, manufacturing 3D printers and filaments in Delaware, for making the Czech Embassy in DC the first such Czech Embassy in the world to utilize 3D printing. Lastly, the Ambassador recognized the “spirits diplomacy’” created with the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office in the exchange of Czech Pilsner Urquell beer and Taiwanese Kavalan Whiskey.

Next, on behalf of the Governor of Nebraska Jim Pillen, Major General Craig W. Strong of the National Guard of Nebraska offered his remarks, stating the Czech Republic’s partnership with Nebraska and Texas dates back to 1993. The state partnership program is a complement to NATO membership. He noted that, “Nebraska and Texas were selected by virtue of their deep heritage and immigrant past. Together, we have formed deep bonds.” He concluded by emphasizing the shared transatlantic “heritage, friendship and trust.”

In addition, on behalf of Minister of Defense of the Czech Republic Jana Černochová, Foreign Minister Lipavský and Ambassador Stašek along with Defense, Military, Naval and Air Attaché BG Martin Sikora presented Deborah Boehner, daughter of First Lieutenant Vladimír Taussig, with the State Defense Cross of the Minister of Defense of the Czech Republic, in memoriam, for her father’s extraordinary service in the defense of the state. During WWII in 1940, First Lieutenant Taussig established a Czechoslovak unit within the British Battalion of the Shanghai Volunteer Corps. He later was able to reach Great Britain and joined the Czechoslovak resistance to continue the fight for freedom.

Brigadier General Martin Sikora stated, “Taussig’s life stands as a shining example of unshakable courage and conviction. His determination to fight for freedom, even far from his homeland, reminds us that the struggle for liberty knows no borders. His bravery continues to inspire all who resist oppression and defend human dignity today.”

Upon receiving the award, Deborah Boehner offered her insight into her father’s life. When asked by her why the allies won WWII, First Lieutenant Taussig responded, “The good always wins.” Remembering the life lesson, Deborah Boehner stated, “...receiving an honor like this would be life-changing for him” and expressed her hope that his words continue to prove right in the future.

This year, the Czech Embassy has partnered with the Pilsen Region to promote economic ties and tourism. The guests enjoyed Pilsner Urquell beer and special pastries (domažlické koláče) as well as the exhibition Loos and Pilsen, organized by Czech Centers and The Gallery of West Bohemia in Pilsen. Architect Adolf Loos was instrumental in transforming architecture to modern works at the turn of the 20th century.

Note: Czech National Day commemorates the founding of an independent Czechoslovakia on October 28, 1918. Czechoslovakia peacefully split on January 1, 1993. The Czech Republic continues to celebrate the Czech sovereign state’s founding on October 28.

Written by Andrea Pohl
October 23, 2025