Elvis' arrival in Bremerhaven: Fans celebrate 67 years of rock 'n' roll!

Elvis' arrival in Bremerhaven: Fans celebrate 67 years of rock 'n' roll!

On October 1, 1958, Elvis Presley set foot on German soil as a US Army recruit and left a lasting impression in Bremerhaven to this day. Around 80 loyal fans of the “King” celebrated this special occasion on the Columbuskaje at the weekend. Traditionally, Elvis supporters come from all over Germany to commemorate the legendary singer's first step on German soil. Since 2015, these celebrations have become a popular annual gathering organized by Barbara and Ulli Elter. For Barbara, who was only seven years old at the time, Elvis remains an exceptional artist and a symbol of rebellion and freedom.

The arrival of Elvis, which represented a historic turning point in the history of the Federal Republic of Germany, attracted large crowds in 1958. The US military police had to push back screaming teenagers when Elvis docked with the troop transport “USS General Randall” at 8:46 a.m. A bronze plaque now commemorates this important moment on Columbuskaje, which has been a central location in Bremerhaven since 1927. Fan Michael Aden, an Elvis impersonator, emphasizes the enduring importance of Elvis Presley and the music that shaped generations. “He was the ambassador of rock’n’roll culture in Germany,” describes Ines Titzmann, who discovered her love for Elvis’ music in 1976.

A celebration for the fans

The celebrations not only offer a nostalgic look back, but also music and a wide program for those present. Loud bremerhaven.de On October 1st, the American national anthem and the hit “Jailhouse Rock” are traditionally played – a musical homage to Elvis that makes fans’ hearts beat faster. This annual rock'n'roll pilgrimage thrives on the collective memory and passion of the participants, who come not only from Bremerhaven, but also from cities such as Munich, Flensburg and Bielefeld.

Werner Graßmann, who was there as a 12-year-old in 1958, remembers this unforgettable day vividly. The stories and memories of contemporary witnesses make the celebrations something very special. Helge Rothenberg, who tried to get an autograph from the superstar years ago, is also fondly remembered by the fans. So October 1st is not just a date, but a living part of history.

From military times to legend

Elvis Presley stayed in Germany for about a year and a half and became known here as a friendly GI. He initially lived in a hotel before moving to a villa in Bad Nauheim with his relatives. During this time he met his future wife Priscilla, which would have a lasting impact on his memories and his music. Today, fewer than 100 Americans live in Bremerhaven, but the presence of the 950th Transportation Company testifies to the long history of American military presence in the city, which sees Elvis as an important part of its history.

Although Elvis Presley died on August 16, 1977, around 50 million people worldwide still live as avowed fans of his music, bound together by the memories and nostalgic splendor of bygone times. Ndr.de pays homage to the influence that Elvis had at a time when rock'n'roll became the sound of a youth striving for departure and freedom. The “King” has a good hand for people’s hearts – even decades after his death.

The commemoration of Elvis not only remains an annual tradition, but also celebrates the spirit of an entire era that will not be forgotten. Fans and curious people continue to look to Bremerhaven to keep the living memory of the King of Rock'n'Roll alive.