First National Veterans Day: Reservists show the flag in Vechta

First National Veterans Day: Reservists show the flag in Vechta

The first National Veterans Day took place in Germany on June 16, 2025, an event that focuses on appreciation for active and former soldiers in the Bundeswehr. In Vechta, more than 140 reservists gathered for the first public reservist vow, and despite adverse weather conditions, they reaffirmed their oath to the free, democratic basic order and the commitment to bravely defend the rights and freedom of the German people. This shows that Veterans Day is not just a date on the calendar, but a clear expression of cohesion and responsibility in society - a point that the NDR illuminates in detail.

But not everything went without tension. The reservist roll call on Citadel Square took place amidst protests and counter-demonstrations, a sign that the attitude towards the Bundeswehr and the reservists is not without controversy. Meinhard Lamping, chairman of the Ahlhorn district group, pointed out that reservists will play a more important role in the defense of Germany in the future, which is accompanied by criticism, but also creates an opportunity for new discussions.

Recognition and new traditions

Veterans Day is not only celebrated in Vechta, but is part of a larger concept that was decided by the Bundestag factions under Chancellor Olaf Scholz in 2022. This annual memorial day should always be celebrated on June 15th and serves as a visible sign of appreciation for retired soldiers and to improve their social care. Deutschlandfunk emphasizes that Veterans Day should also address aftercare for soldiers, especially after deployments abroad.

In total, over 30 Veterans Day events were organized in northern Germany, including in Hamburg, where a military appeal also took place. 400 soldiers were transported to the Rathausmarkt, which represents another aspect of recognition. The Bundeswehr will be tasked with growing to 203,000 soldiers by 2031 – despite an aging force.

Sport and public in the spirit of veterans

The Veterans Day celebrations also included sporting events such as the Veterans Run, which took place on June 8th, and the Veterans Bowling in Bremerhaven on June 14th. The Reservistenverband has been heavily involved in organizing the events and placing the appreciation of the services of veterans at the forefront. Barrier-free advice for veterans is required in order to optimize the support provided after deployments abroad.

Overall, there are many voices behind Veterans Day, including Defense Minister Boris Pistorius, who is pushing forward the recognition of soldiers and the associated social debates. The goal is clear: a new tradition of remembrance and appreciation for everyone who has committed themselves to serving Germany.