70 years of the Bundeswehr: Lower Saxony under the sign of freedom and peace

70 years of the Bundeswehr: Lower Saxony under the sign of freedom and peace

On November 12, 2025, the Bundeswehr will celebrate its 70th anniversary. An occasion that is not only duly recognized in Lower Saxony, the number one Bundeswehr state, but also sets an example across the country for responsibility and securing freedom. Sebastian Lechner, the chairman of the CDU parliamentary group, emphasizes that the Bundeswehr has stood tirelessly for the protection of freedom and the service of democracy since its founding. “Thousands of soldiers have taken on responsibility for national and alliance defense,” reminds Lechner, underlining the precious meaning of peace and freedom.

Lower Saxony is home to important Bundeswehr locations, training centers and military training areas. This strong interlinking of civil and military structures has a significant impact on the state. Especially at the current time, when Russia's aggression has opened up a new dimension, the importance of national and alliance defense is becoming increasingly clear. A clear commitment to NATO and international partners is more important than ever.

A look at foreign missions

But the Bundeswehr is not only a defense force in its own country, but also active internationally. Since its first foreign deployment in November 1959, when the Air Force flew medicine to Morocco, the Bundeswehr has carried out over 130 humanitarian aid operations and numerous peacekeeping missions. These interventions range from support after the 1960 Agadir earthquake to long-term operations in Afghanistan and Kosovo.

The Bundeswehr's foreign missions are subject to constant developments. The discussion about deployment abroad gained new importance after reunification in 1990, triggered by the so-called out-of-area debate. The Petersberg reunification in 1992, in which the SPD changed its position on foreign missions, was a particularly turning point. Since then, the Bundeswehr has been involved in various missions, including operations to combat terrorism and to provide training support in conflict regions.

Thanks to the soldiers

But today is not just about celebrations and looking back. It is also a day of remembrance. The Bundeswehr has had to mourn many dead and wounded over the years. Memorials in deployment countries and in Berlin remind us of the high price of peace. In addition, it is important to address the issues of psychological stress, such as post-traumatic stress disorders. These challenges must be taken seriously, and the state benefits that soldiers are entitled to after their deployments are just as important.

The festivities in Lower Saxony impressively show how strongly the Bundeswehr is integrated into social life. Our thanks go to all soldiers, reservists and civilian employees and their families who not only take on responsibility through their service, but also shape their homeland and identity in Lower Saxony to a certain extent. The Bundeswehr therefore remains an unchanging part of our society, which keeps an eye on danger and freedom and must also be well positioned in the future in order to meet the challenges.