Firefighter receives backing from singer Heino
In a recent turn of events, a firefighter from Bad Belzig, Brandenburg, has been dismissed by the German Firefighters' Association following his performance of the German national anthem at a sports championship. The incident, which occurred in Torgau, sparked controversy due to the version of the anthem played – one that is historically associated with Nazi Germany.
The firefighter, reportedly unaware of the anthem's sensitive nature, downloaded the version from YouTube shortly before the opening ceremony. This version, which includes the first and second verses, was propagandistically misused by the National Socialists during their reign.
Today, only the third verse with the words "Unity and justice and freedom" is the national anthem. The first and second verses, while part of the original composition by August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben in 1841, are not banned.
In a surprising twist, popular German pop singer Heino has publicly defended the firefighter and called for him to be given a second chance. Heino, who performed the 1979 version of the anthem, including all three verses, at a request from Hans Filbinger, the then Baden-Württemberg Minister President and former Nazi naval judge, finds the dismissal "exaggerated" and believes the firefighter, a long-standing volunteer, should be given a chance to make amends.
Heino emphasized that the performance for Filbinger was for "school purposes." The singer also hinted at the possibility of a performance at the firefighter's residence, expressing his support for the firefighter's rehabilitation.
While the firefighter’s dismissal currently stands, there is public support from influential figures for reconsideration and the possibility of reinstatement or at least a second chance. The debate about a second chance is ongoing, with no official reversal or reinstatement reported yet.
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- The controversy over the firefighter's performance of the national anthem has led to discussions on social media, with many German celebrities expressing their views on the matter.
- In response to the firefighter's dismissal, popular entertainer Heino has used his social media platforms to call for a second chance for the firefighter and support his rehabilitation.
