Honoring Germany’s Brave: The Establishment of a National Veterans Day

A National Veterans Day is set to be established in Germany on June 15th to honor both active and former soldiers of the Bundeswehr for their service. The motion was passed in the Bundestag with a large majority, supported by the governing parties SPD, Greens, FDP, and the opposition Union. The aim is to show appreciation for the sacrifices made by these individuals.

The definition of a veteran in Germany has been a topic of debate, with different opinions on who should be considered as such. Germany has adopted a broad definition of veterans, encompassing almost all active or former soldiers, avoiding any disputes over who qualifies for recognition. This inclusive approach is considered one of the broadest within NATO, acknowledging the diverse experiences and contributions of soldiers, regardless of the era they served in.

In recent years, veterans in Germany have raised concerns about the lack of support and care after their service, especially for those who have been deployed on missions like Afghanistan. The Association of German Veterans has called for improved services for soldiers returning from missions and highlighted the need for a comprehensive support system. In response to these concerns, a veterans office has been established in Berlin to serve as a central point of contact for former and current soldiers seeking assistance.

The introduction of a Veterans Day in Germany is expected to create a framework for recognizing and thanking veterans for their dedication and sacrifices. It will also serve as an opportunity for veterans to connect with their families, the Bundeswehr, society, and policymakers. A national day dedicated to veterans is seen as a step towards acknowledging the invaluable contributions of soldiers and providing them with the support and recognition they deserve.

It’s important to recognize that not all countries have an established national day dedicated to honoring their veterans. By introducing this new holiday in Germany, it serves as an example that other countries could follow suit. It’s crucial that we continue to honor our brave men and women who risked their lives serving our country.

Germany’s adoption of an inclusive definition of veterans shows that they understand that not all people who served are created equal. This approach acknowledges that every soldier has unique experiences and contributions based on when they served or where they were deployed.

The establishment of a Veterans Day also highlights how important it is to provide support and care after military service ends. Many soldiers struggle with physical disabilities or mental health issues due to their time serving abroad or domestically.

In conclusion, establishing a National Veterans Day in Germany is long overdue but will provide much-needed recognition and support for our brave men and women who have served our country