Berlin, November 12, 2025 — Germany has commemorated the 70th anniversary of the Bundeswehr, its national armed forces, with a solemn public ceremony in front of the Reichstag building, symbolizing both the military’s deep ties to democracy and its growing importance in a world marked by renewed geopolitical tensions.
A Historic Milestone for the Bundeswehr
The central event featured an oath-taking ceremony for 280 new recruits, attended by German President Frank-Walter Steinmeier and Defence Minister Boris Pistorius. The occasion marked seven decades since the founding of the Bundeswehr on November 12, 1955, when then-Defense Minister Theodor Blank handed certificates of appointment to the first 101 volunteers at Bonn’s Ermekeil barracks.
“The Bundeswehr is the army of our democracy,” President Steinmeier declared during the ceremony. “It stands for freedom, peace, and the defense of our constitutional values.”
Bundeswehr: The Army of German Democracy
Steinmeier’s remarks underscored the Bundeswehr’s evolution from a post-war defense force into a modern army rooted in democratic principles and parliamentary oversight. The President emphasized that, in light of Russia’s aggression and a rapidly changing global security landscape, credible military deterrence remains essential for Europe’s stability.
Julia Klöckner, President of the Bundestag, highlighted the symbolic power of hosting the event in front of the parliament building — the heart of German democracy.
“There could hardly be a more fitting place for the solemn oath of our recruits — public, visible, and at the heart of our society,” Klöckner said. “This is where the Bundeswehr belongs.”
She described the armed forces as the “airbag of democracy,” protecting German citizens “when it matters most.”
A Parliamentary Army with a Democratic Mission
Klöckner stressed that the Bundeswehr remains a parliamentary army, one whose operations are firmly anchored in the rule of law and the democratic values of the Federal Republic.
“The Bundeswehr serves democracy,” she affirmed. “In an increasingly unstable world, its role as the protector of our freedom and security is growing.”
She added that the Bundestag stands “shoulder to shoulder” with all soldiers who wear the German uniform, acknowledging the risks they take in the name of peace and national security.
Defence Minister Pistorius: Modernizing for a New Era
Defence Minister Boris Pistorius praised the Bundeswehr’s professionalism and commitment, calling its anniversary “a moment to honor both the past and the future.” He reaffirmed the government’s commitment to modernizing the military, boosting defense spending, and attracting new recruits as Germany navigates the challenges of modern warfare and a shifting geopolitical landscape.
“We are strengthening the Bundeswehr to ensure it remains a force capable of defending Germany and Europe,” Pistorius said.
The anniversary also coincided with ongoing discussions within the government about the future of military service, following recent debates over whether Germany should reintroduce a draft system or continue with its voluntary recruitment model.
Bundeswehr’s Legacy and Future Challenges
Founded in 1955, just ten years after World War II, the Bundeswehr was built on the principle of “citizens in uniform” — soldiers who serve the state but remain deeply committed to democratic ideals. Over the decades, it has evolved from a defensive army during the Cold War into a modern force engaged in international peacekeeping missions, NATO operations, and humanitarian relief efforts.
Today, the Bundeswehr faces new challenges: aging equipment, recruitment shortages, and the need to adapt to cyber warfare and hybrid threats. The government has pledged billions in defense investments to ensure readiness and modernization.
The Bundeswehr and Its Role in Global Security
President Steinmeier’s speech also touched on the Bundeswehr’s growing role in European and international defense cooperation. As part of NATO and the European Union’s defense initiatives, Germany plays a key role in maintaining security on the continent.
“Our soldiers serve not only to protect Germany,” Steinmeier said, “but also to uphold peace and stability wherever democratic values are at risk.”
He added that the Bundeswehr’s service is “a testament to our commitment to freedom, solidarity, and peace.”
A Symbol of Unity and Responsibility
The sight of recruits marching between the Bundestag and the Federal Chancellery — flanked by flags and accompanied by the Bundeswehr band — served as a powerful reminder of the army’s deep integration into Germany’s democratic identity.
As the ceremony concluded, spectators applauded the recruits who took their solemn oath, pledging to “faithfully serve the Federal Republic of Germany and courageously defend the rights and freedom of the German people.”
“Our cultural memory and our democracy depend on those who are willing to stand up for them,” Steinmeier concluded. “The Bundeswehr remains that shield.”
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