First Veterans Day in Schwerin: Honoring our Bundeswehr heroes!

First Veterans Day in Schwerin: Honoring our Bundeswehr heroes!

On June 15, 2025, a new day of honor for our soldiers will take place: the first National Veterans Day. All over Germany, active and former members of the Bundeswehr are remembered on this day. The central celebration takes place in Schwerin, the state capital of Mecklenburg-Western Pomerania, where a festive parade through the city center marks the start. The focus is on remembrance and recognition, which is particularly important to Bundestag President Julia Klöckner. She emphasizes the importance of visibility, respect and recognition for veterans and sees Veterans Day as a promise for better care for this important group.

The festival begins with a small but nice parade through Schwerin. Visitors can also look forward to numerous information stands focused on veterans' concerns. A devotion on the “floating meadow” next to the impressive Schwerin Castle rounds off the offer. Former commandos from Poland are also expected here to exchange ideas with the German veterans - a contemporary gesture of international cooperation. This is happening not only in Schwerin, but also in cities like Kiel, where Defense Minister Boris Pistorius will be present at a large civic celebration while 420 soldiers will be promoted to lieutenants as part of a military roll call.

The country celebrates its soldiers

There will be numerous events dedicated to veterans throughout Germany on June 15, 2025. For example, in Augustdorf a combination event is celebrated with a field fair, music and tasty grilled food. The “March of Appreciation” will take place in Duisburg, and a photo exhibition entitled “Faces of Life” will open in Euskirchen. Veterans are also given special honors in Lippstadt.

• Feldgottesdienst und Netzwerk-Treffen in Augustdorf.
• Ein öffentlicher Gelöbnis in Vechta.
• Eine Andacht mit Friedensgebet in Raesfeld.

Political resonance and social debate

National Veterans Day is not only recognized as a celebratory event, but is also taken up by political figures. On Platform Defense Minister Pistorius praises the soldiers who are prepared to risk their lives for their homeland. At the same time, however, there are also critical voices. The Left criticizes the organization of Veterans Day and calls for more support for the local workers who have supported the Bundeswehr and are now often abandoned. Henning Otte, the Bundestag's new military commissioner, invites critics to exchange ideas with the soldiers and better understand their perspective.

Overall, the first National Veterans Day signals a strong commitment to recognizing the lifetime achievements and service of veterans. Austrian readers are invited to take part in the various events and to engage with the topic. Because respect for our soldiers and addressing their challenges are more important than ever.

For more information about Veterans Day, visit the website Veteranentag and NDR. Information on the discussion surrounding Veterans Day can be found at DW.