Bundeswehr marks inaugural National Veterans Day in Koblenz
Celebrate the 1st National Veteran's Day in Koblenz!
Today's the day - the 1st National Veteran's Day is happening on the iconic Jesuit Square in Koblenz! This historic city, nestled at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, is abuzz with political figures, social leaders, and members of the Bundeswehr, coming together in honor of our brave veterans.
The decision to honor our veterans on this day was made with a landslide vote in the Bundestag on April 25, 2021. Each June 15th, more than ten million veterans of the Bundeswehr will be recognized and their visibility increased in our communities.
The highlight of this nationwide phenomenon is a stage program right in front of the Reichstag building in Berlin. As for Koblenz, it proudly celebrates Veteran's Day on its own turf.
Promoting acceptance and exchange
The intention behind the National Veteran's Day is to foster communication between veterans, their families, the Bundeswehr, and society at large. It's about giving our veterans a long-overdue "shout out" and paying tribute to the fallen comrades who made the ultimate sacrifice. Walter Altherr, a veteran from the early deployment units in the 90s, appreciates the sentiment, pointing out that such ceremonies are a standard practice in many other countries.
Despite the good intentions, some veterans like Wolfgang Bender feel that social recognition needs to come from within the Bundeswehr first. He had the unfortunate experience of being deployed in Afghanistan and is concerned that the suspension of conscription has created a disconnect between citizens and the army. He also advocates for a positive concept of patriotism that embodies democracy, justice, and is embraced by the left.
Veterans join together in Koblenz
Nicole Henz, who served in the Bundeswehr medical service for eight years, is excited about the National Veteran's Day. For her, the event offers a much-needed platform to honor and acknowledge public servants who have given a part of themselves for our country. Her deployments in Croatia and Bosnia had a profound impact on her, and she looks forward to the diverse program planned in Koblenz.
Alongside high-ranking representatives from politics, society, and the Bundeswehr, the Inspector General of the Army, Alfons Mais, will grace the event in Koblenz. Country singer Jesse Cole, the Trier reserve music corps, and the military music corps Koblenz will introduce a musical framework to the celebrations.
For more details on the 1st National Veteran's Day on June 15 in Koblenz, you can click here. Koblenz, steeped in history and charm, provides the perfect backdrop to celebrate our nation's heroes. Let's not miss this opportunity to express our gratitude and support for the men and women who have served our country!
- In the midst of the ceremonies, it's essential to acknowledge the need for a stronger political focus on the policy-and-legislation surrounding veterans' rights and welfare, as highlighted by Wolfgang Bender's concerns about the disconnect between citizens and the army.
- As the 1st National Veteran's Day in Koblenz unfolds, it signifies more than just a general-news event; it is a chance for society to engage with veterans, foster understanding, and celebrate their contributions through a blend of politics, music, and communal spirit.
