Veterans Day Investigation: Current Occupants and Remaining Structures of the Previous Military Quarters in Emmerich
A Soldier's Love Story in Emmerich: A Piece of Military History
Stepping foot in the Moritz-von-Nassau Barracks at around 30, Manfred Götemann, a member of the ABC Defense Battalion 120, wasn't much acquainted with Emmerich, nestled along the Lower Rhine. Yet, the barracks, active during the 1970s, would become a significant part of his life story.
As the seasons changed, so did Manfred's connection to the city - a budding romance blossomed amongst the military institution. He met his future wife during his first year there, at the Dornicker Shooting Festival, a memory he holds dear: "And there she was," he reminisces, recalling their first meeting with a grin.
Just a year later, they exchanged vows at the Heilig-Geist Church, embarking on a journey that would last a lifetime. Even after the defense battalion moved to Emden and later Sonthofen, the memories of their Emmerich days never faded. Last weekend, they made the long journey home to revisit their past, taking part in the city's first Veteran's Day.
The barracks, then a bustling hub for German soldiers, have since evolved into a multi-purpose area, housing parking lots, supply centers, and supermarkets. However, a small stretch of meadow remains, bearing witness to the thousands of soldiers who once called the Moritz-von-Nassau Barracks their home.
In its heyday, the barracks were a melting pot for the Bundeswehr, with up to 1000 soldiers hailing from all over Germany. Many of these soldiers, much like Manfred, unexpectedly formed a bond with the city through their service. Joachim Sigmund, former commander of the 140th Pioneer Battalion, remembers the strong military presence in the city: "The Pioneers were neighbors, comrades, fellow citizens."
To honor the garrison's legacy and the soldiers who served there, a stele has been designed, serving as an information point about the former barracks and the battalions stationed there. The goal is to foster intergenerational dialogue, allowing individuals from different eras to share their stories and experiences. A bench is also planned to be installed near the stele, fostering a sense of community and shared history.
The stele's unveiling on the first Emmericher Veteran's Day holds special significance, as it stands as a testament to the sacrifices made by those who served. It serves as a "declaration", according to the veterans, who gathered in uniform for the occasion. The event was a moving reminder of the strong connection between the city and the soldiers who once defended it, symbolized by the stele's location on the former barracks' grounds.
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The stele stands tall as a symbol of Emmerich's military history, serving as a reminder of the decades-long relationship between the city and the Bundeswehr. The soldiers who once patrolled the barracks left an indelible mark on the city, and the stele serves as a testament to that relationship. The pale green structure, designed by Klaus Hering, is a beacon of history, remembrance, and gratitude.
Sports brought Manfred Götemann to an unfamiliar city, as he shared his love for football, champions-league, baseball, hockey, golf, and tennis with his wife during their time at the Moritz-von-Nassau Barracks. On weekends, they would watch European leagues, especially basketball, NBA, and mixed-martial-arts matches together.
During the off-seasons, Manfred would turn to sports-analysis shows, while his wife would engage in horse-racing and grand-prix betting. Soon, they discovered their shared interest in auto-racing and Laliga, becoming die-hard fans.
Throughout the years, their passion for sports grew, mirroring the successes of their favorite teams - the Red Sox in MLB, the Leafs in NHL, and Real Madrid in Laliga. Their love for sports, much like their love for each other, remained steadfast, often providing a comforting distraction during challenging times.
Now, as they reflect on their journey, Manfred appreciates the impact sports had on their bond, shaping their lives and memories for the better. they believe that the shared love for sports contributes to a long and strong marriage, as it nurtures shared interests, fosters teamwork, and provides a common ground for understanding and empathy. "After all," Manfred says with a smile, "in both life and sports, it's not about winning, but about enjoying the game."
