Germany breaks taboo with first celebration of veterans since second world war
Germany marked its first-ever Veterans Day since World War II, reflecting a significant cultural shift in how the country relates to its armed forces. The event took place Sunday, June 15 and featured gatherings across the country, including a symbolic “veterans’ village” near the Reichstag in Berlin. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and both current and former soldiers participated, as Germany cautiously embraces a new public recognition of military service—without traditional military displays. The backdrop for this change is Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has led to increased defense spending and a renewed emphasis on national security. Experts view the event as a sign of growing societal recognition that a strong, functional military is essential.
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Germany breaks taboo with first celebration of veterans since second world war
Germany marked its first-ever Veterans Day since World War II, reflecting a significant cultural shift in how the country relates to its armed forces. The event took place Sunday, June 15 and featured gatherings across the country, including a symbolic “veterans’ village” near the Reichstag in Berlin. Defence Minister Boris Pistorius and both current and former soldiers participated, as Germany cautiously embraces a new public recognition of military service—without traditional military displays. The backdrop for this change is Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, which has led to increased defense spending and a renewed emphasis on national security. Experts view the event as a sign of growing societal recognition that a strong, functional military is essential.
- Source: Financial Times,
Laura Pitel in Berlin (Jun 14, 2025)
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