Sam P.: ‘What do you actually do as Commander of the Armed Forces?’
Eichelsheim: ‘I lead the army, air force and navy. When Dutch troops go abroad, I ensure that they are well prepared. I also think about what wars will look like in time. I think more and more technology is being used.”
Why: ‘What are the chances that there will be a third world war?’
Eichelsheim: ‘That chance is not great. But slightly larger than two years ago, when there was no war in Ukraine. Luckily we have NATO. The 32 member countries work together to ensure that no one can harm us. As long as we show that we are strong, other countries may not attack us.”
Ferro: “Do you have a nickname?”
Eichelsheim: ‘Yes: Speedy. Because I used to drive too fast sometimes.’
Sam L.: ‘Do you have any secrets?’
Eichelsheim: ‘Yes, a lot actually. I have many secret documents that deal with spying, secret plans or resources that we want to buy. They are in a large safe at my home. My house is kept safe with cameras. I share some secrets with the minister, prime minister or the king.’
Charlotte: ‘Did you used to have a hug?
Eichelsheim: ‘Yes, a beige bear.’
David: ‘Are you wearing a bulletproof vest?’
Eichelsheim: ‘Sometimes. I think it is important to pay attention to my safety. For example, I’m never on WiFi, because it’s easier to be overheard that way.’
Next week in Kidsweek you will read a report about the conversation between group 8 and the Commander of the Armed Forces.
