The Vice-Chancellor of the Swedish Defence University, Robert Egnell has been awarded the Kings Medal in a ceremony at the Royal Palace in Stockholm. The ceremony presided over by His Majesty Carl XVI Gustaf took place on 21 February 2024.
Mr Egnell, who sits as a Mistra Geopolitics Board member, has been recognized “for significant contributions to war studies and conflict management” and described the award as a total surprise.
To be awarded His Majesty the King’s Medal was completely unexpected and therefore such a sudden and overwhelming feeling of pride and joy. During the beautiful ceremony the King also emphasized that we should interpret the medal not only as a recognition of past achievements, but also an inspiration to keep up the good work – and that is exactly how it feels!
– Robert Egnell
Medals are awarded to Swedish citizens by the King for outstanding contributions within society and also to commemorate important people or important events.
H. M. The King’s Medal, which used to be known as the Court Medal, was first awarded in 1813 as a reward for long-term and faithful service at the court. Since 1975 it has been given to Swedish citizens for distinguished service and can be awarded in a number of different sizes and designs, both in gold and in silver. Mr Egnell received the 12th size medal with a blue ribbon.
News story translated and written by Jane Birch and Ylva Rylander Communications and Impact Officers for Mistra Geopolitics at SEI, with contribution from Robert Egnell. Original story in Swedish was written by the Swedish Defence University.