Celebration of Veterans Day to be Instituted Starting from 2026, as Advocated by FDP
In a significant move, the FDP city council fraction in Bochum has put forth a motion to establish an annual public ceremony, starting from 2026, to express gratitude towards active and former soldiers of the Bundeswehr for their service. The motion was submitted for a council meeting on July 10, 2025.
Felix Haltt, chairman of the FDP city council fraction, emphasised the vital role of the Bundeswehr in maintaining security, taking on responsibility, and providing aid in times of crisis. He believes that the proposed ceremonies will serve to strengthen the social recognition of the Bundeswehr soldiers.
The FDP's mayoral candidate, Susanne Schneider, supports this initiative and suggests that Bochum should join other cities in honouring the commitment of those who have served in the Bundeswehr. The cities of Duisburg, Mülheim an der Ruhr, Paderborn, and Unna have already celebrated the national veterans' day this year.
The Bundeswehr, the armed forces of the Federal Republic of Germany, has seen over ten million women and men serve in its ranks. The national veterans' day, officially recognised by the Bundestag, will commemorate the achievements and willingness to sacrifice of those who have contributed to security, stability, and peace in international missions while serving in the Bundeswehr.
The proposed ceremonies in Bochum will begin from 2026 and may include flagging the town hall on veterans' day as part of the ceremony. The exact date for these ceremonies has not been specified in the motion, but it is in line with the national veterans' day, which is set to officially recognise the contributions of Bundeswehr soldiers from 2025.
Schneider believes that those who are willing to stand up for the values, security, and responsibility of the world deserve thanks, respect, and a place in the public consciousness. By organising these annual ceremonies, the FDP city council fraction aims to ensure that the commitment and sacrifices of Bundeswehr soldiers are never forgotten.
While Bochum did not celebrate the national veterans' day this year, the reasons for this are not clear. As local news sources and the FDP Bochum's official communications may provide more insights into this matter, it is recommended to consult those for the latest updates.
The FDP city council fraction in Bochum's suggestion of annual ceremonies, starting in 2026, aligns with their policy-and-legislation regarding politics, as they aim to recognize and honor the service of active and former soldiers of the Bundeswehr. This initiative is part of a broader discussion in general-news, with other cities similarly honoring the commitment of Bundeswehr veterans.
