On 10 June 2026, internship supervisors from the Royal Netherlands Air Force were recognised during a special coin ceremony at Beukbergen, Huis ter Heide.
Among the recipients was Dr Alexandre Verlaine, Head of Public Affairs and Protocol at the European Air Transport Command (EATC). He received the coin in recognition of his role in welcoming and overseeing interns at the EATC Public Affairs Office.
Interns bring fresh perspectives to defence organisations. Their first professional experience can strongly influence how they view Defence as a future employer. For this reason, good supervision is essential. Internship supervisors help students feel welcome, guide them in their daily work and introduce them to the wider defence environment.
Commodore Ellen Meeuwsen-Scholten, Director Personnel of the Royal Netherlands Air Force, underlined this importance during the ceremony: “Internship supervisors play a key role in shaping the first professional experiences of our future colleagues. Their dedication helps interns discover the value of working for Defence.”
The coin was presented as a token of appreciation for this important contribution. It also recognised the time and commitment that supervisors invest, often alongside their regular duties, in supporting the development of future colleagues.