When the Brigadier General Motiejus Pečiulionis Artillery Battalion celebrated its eighth birthday on July 1, Rokas Baciuška was invited to unit headquarters in Pajūris as a guest speaker.

He met with Lt. Col. Mantas Ragulis (pictured in featured image) before speaking with troops about his career. Afterward, he toured the base and even got to try firing a howitzer. Baciuška was also gifted an engraved artillery shell that doubles as a thermos.

A Can-Am Maverick X3 wrapped in EZVIZ sponsorship, from his RB Driving Experience, was also transported to base on a Mercedes-Benz Arocs used by the battalion.

“It was a very interesting and heartwarming experience, from the ceremonial formation to sports games and conversations with real professionals,” said Baciuška. “It’s nice to see how much strength, unity, and humility exists in this community.

“Thank you to the battalion for the invitation and for what you do every day. Respect and good luck to all who defend and protect.”

Other festivities throughout the day included christening two new howitzers (named Aušrinė and Kamilė) and competitions between units like quizzes and athletic events. The battalion also received an honorary name based on Lieutenant General Pranas Liatukas, an Imperial Russian officer who later led the newly created Lithuanian Army following World War I.

The “Brigados generolo Motiejaus Pečiulionio artilerijos batalionas” was formed in 2017. It is part of the Grand Hetman Jonas Karolis Chodkevičius Infantry Brigade “Žemaitija”.

“He not only talked about his path to the world’s peak of speed but also shared his motivation, which was equivalent to a shot straight into the top ten,” reads a statement from the battalion. “Rokas eagerly spoke, took pictures, and left a strong impression – after all, soldiers and speed always go hand in hand!

“The celebration was what a real artillery family deserves, with great spirit, unity, healthy ambitions, and respect for each other. Because when we are together, we are not only strong, but also fun!”

A two-time World Rally-Raid Champion in the SSV and Challenger classes, Baciuška finished 11th at the Dakar Rally in January. He’s set to race for the new Land Rover team in 2026.

Featured image credit: Sgt. Vidas Stašaitis