Young recruits in Ueckermünde: Responsibility for Germany's security!

Young recruits in Ueckermünde: Responsibility for Germany's security!

On November 8, 2025, around 40 young men and women gathered in Ueckermünde to express their responsibility for Germany's security at the oath of the 413th Jäger Battalion. Among them was Anton Engelhaupt, a 19-year-old corporal officer candidate who has enlisted in the Bundeswehr for an impressive 13 years. In his speech, Engelhaupt spoke about the importance of responsibility and the need to actively contribute to the country's defense. “This decision was made consciously and independently,” emphasized Engelhaupt, who is influenced by the military background of his father, Lieutenant Colonel Hans-Joachim Engelhaupt. Northern Courier reports that Engelhaupt wants to set an example for his peers.

In his speech, the battalion commander, Lieutenant Colonel Joachim Ruthe, highlighted the challenges that the Bundeswehr is facing in the current geopolitical situation. “Hybrid attacks require soldiers who are ready to protect freedom and peace,” said Ruthe. These words do not come by chance, but rather reflect the increasing threat situation that is also being discussed at a social level. Ethics and military highlights the fact that the reintroduction of compulsory military service has been debated more and more seriously in recent years.

Responsibility and camaraderie

Mayor Jürgen Kliewe took the opportunity to emphasize the importance of the vow as an expression of responsibility, comradeship and reliability. He also emphasized the sponsorship between the city of Ueckermünde and the 4th company of the hunter battalion, which is strengthened through mutual visits. However, Kliewe also expressed concerns about the population's return to military fitness and the associated fears. Such concerns are not unfounded, as the discussion about compulsory military service shows how deep the uncertainty runs in society, especially among younger generations who deal with issues such as war and social inequality.

In recent years, the number of applicants for the Bundeswehr has increased. From 2023 to 2024 there was an increase of 15 percent. Public opinion is showing a growing interest in security policy issues, especially among Generation Z. Generation Z is more concerned with questions of social responsibility and is exploring the extent to which military service is a suitable strategy for their involvement. Nevertheless, many no longer see military service as a necessary prerequisite for active engagement in society. The discussion about conscription and social commitment will also be influenced by the upcoming new elections in 2025.

An outlook on future challenges

The security problems facing Germany require an interdisciplinary approach. The Inspector General of the Bundeswehr is calling for a change to the Basic Law in order to include women in compulsory military service, which is further fueling the discussion about equality and justice in the military. Given the changing threat situation, it is crucial that civil and military organizations work closely together to meet the challenges of the future.

In conclusion, it should be noted that the vow in Ueckermünde was not only a solemn ceremony, but also a clear sign of the challenges and obligations that young people in Germany have to face today. The willingness to take responsibility is essential here.