Defense Minister Boris Pistorius Pays Tribute to German Military on First Veterans’ Day
In a statement marking the first Veterans’ Day, Germany’s Defense Minister Boris Pistorius expressed gratitude to the country’s military personnel for their service and emphasized the increasing demands on their role. The minister, a member of the Social Democratic Party, told the Rheinische Post that the day is a chance to thank the ten million veterans, comprising both active and former soldiers, who are ready to safeguard the country’s external security, even at the risk of their own lives.
Pistorius highlighted the Bundeswehr’s professional performance over the past two and a half years, citing examples of exercises, combat and humanitarian missions, including the evacuation of German citizens from Sudan. He acknowledged the military’s strength, stating that it has earned the respect of the nation.
However, the minister also emphasized that the demands on the military will continue to rise in the future, as the threat landscape has intensified in recent years. “We must make it clear: we can defend our country and the alliance if it were to be attacked” Pistorius stressed, underscoring the need for a strong and capable military.