 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (May 2023) |
| Lithuanian Riflemen's Union (Lietuvos šaulių sąjunga) | |
|---|---|
 Insignia of the Lithuanian Riflemen's Union | |
| Active | 1919–1940 1944–1953 (Guerrilla war in the Baltic states) 1954–1989 (in exile) 1989–present |
| Country |  Lithuania |
| Allegiance | Lithuanian Armed Forces |
| Type | Paramilitary organization |
| Role | Civilian self-defence organization |
| Size | 14,000[1] |
| Garrison/HQ | Kaunas |
| Nickname(s) | Šauliai |
| Anniversaries | June 27, 1919 (founding) September 20, 1989 (restoration) |
| Engagements | Lithuanian Wars of Independence Klaipėda Revolt June uprising Lithuanian partisans January Events in Lithuania |
| Website | sauliusajunga.lt |
| Commanders | |
| Current commander | Colonel Linas Idzelis |
| Insignia | |
| LRU member's badge |  |
| Flag |  |
The Lithuanian Riflemen's Union (LRU, Lithuanian: Lietuvos šaulių sąjunga), also referred to as Šauliai (the Riflemen; from Lithuanian: šaulys for rifleman), is a paramilitary non-profit organization supported by the Government of Lithuania, active in three main areas: military training, sport, and culture, but this differs between peace and wartime.
In peacetime, it prepares Lithuania's citizens for armed and unarmed resistance, ensures public safety and defends Lithuania's integrity and independence. In wartime it would support the Lithuanian Armed Forces with its fighting units, and use other units to ensure internal stability and defend critical infrastructure.
- ^ "The Government approves the Riflemen's Union's operational strategy" (in Lithuanian). 13 March 2024.