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The Principality of Sealand is in mourning. The First Minister of Construction, Sir Roland Karl Teschner, who played a crucial role in establishing the nation’s infrastructure, has passed away at the age of 73 after a valiant battle with cancer. His passing has left a void in the hearts of the Sealanders, who will remember him as a dear friend and a pioneer of the Principality.
Prince Michael of Sealand emotional tribute to Sir Roland Karl Teschner of Sealand
“It is with great sadness that we report the passing of our friend and Sealand pioneer Sir Roland Teschner, First Minister of Construction, after a long & courageous battle with cancer.
In a search for adventure, Roland and his friend Walter appeared on my father’s doorstep in the winter of 1968. They had hitchhiked from Germany, where they had seen a news report on the fledgeling state of Sealand and its struggles with the UK government and battles with rival ‘Pirate Radio’ factions. “We have come to help you”, they announced enthusiastically.
Roland and Walter were hugely instrumental in putting together Sealand’s basic power and mechanical infrastructure and have been lifelong friends and Sealanders.”
RIP old friend.
E Mare Libertas
Prince Michael of Sealand
As seen in Prince Michael of Sealand’s book ‘Holding the Fort‘ the two German boys named Walter (19) and Roland (18), had planned to hitchhike to Namibia, and decided to change their destination to the Principality of Sealand. Walter had an apprenticeship as an electrician and sported a thin wispy mustache, while Roland had an apprenticeship as a metalworker and locksmith.
The chapter ‘German Friends’ reveals how Walter and Roland have failed to contact Sealand, and then attempted to row seven miles to the fort before they were rescued by a local firefighter. They eventually found Sealand and stayed with the Bates family for years.
Roland and Walter helped the Bates family with repairs to the fort, including a disastrous attempt to take the boat through an artillery range, resulting in a collision with a lifting road bridge and a rescue by military police.
According to Prince Michael, ‘Roland was the quieter of the two, a very steady and reliable man.’
Rest in peace, dear friend. The Principality of Sealand expresses its sincere gratitude for your unwavering devotion and service. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved ones during this difficult time.
