Zeman bestowed Czech White Lion Order upon Nicholas Winton and Winston Churchill

Ninety-six years ago, Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk established Czechoslovakia and took office as its inaugural president. This day remains a national holiday in both the Czech Republic and Slovakia, despite their split. Every year on this day, the Czech president presents state honors to individuals who have made significant contributions to the nation.

The President bestowed a total of four honors: the Order of Tomáš Garrigue Masaryk, the Medal for Heroism, the Medal for Merit, and the most esteemed, the White Lion Order. The latter was awarded to Sir Nicholas Winton for his heroic act of rescuing numerous Czechoslovak children. It was also posthumously presented to Winston Churchill.

In his address, the President highlighted the foundation of the Czech Republic and acknowledged the pivotal roles both Sir Nicholas Winton and Winston Churchill played in its history. He concluded by honoring the valiant efforts of Czech troops in Afghanistan.