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Bundeswehr in Garlstedt: Yes to the spectacle, no to the protests!
On June 28, 2025, the logistics school in Garlstedt opened its doors to families. Despite protests, the event was a magnet for visitors.
Bundeswehr in Garlstedt: Yes to the spectacle, no to the protests!
On June 28, 2025, the Garlstedt barracks opened its doors for a large event celebrating “Bundeswehr Day”. Over 13,000 visitors flocked to the site to get an impression of the troops' skills and technology. Artistic performances, tanks and impressive gunfire created an exciting atmosphere, while in the background Brigadier General Holger Draber spoke about the logistics school. For everyone who looked around cheerfully and curiously, the event was more than just a military show - it highlighted the various tasks of the Bundeswehr,[Weser Report] reports that...
There was plenty of action for the little visitors: they were able to test their skills on an obstacle course, while parents busily took photos of their children climbing around on the military vehicles. A bouncy castle and face painting rounded off the offerings and made the day a successful outing for families. A large grandstand with up to 3,000 seats was set up in the spectator stands, from where spectators could easily observe shooting exercises and vehicle maneuvers.[Weser-Kurier] also adds...
Protest and criticism
But not everyone was enthusiastic about the event. The evening before there was a peaceful protest by the action alliance against “Bundeswehr Day”, in which 197 to 230 participants took to the streets. Above all, this group wanted to stimulate reflection on the risks and moral responsibility that rest on the shoulders of parents when they recruit their children for military operations.[Weser Report] reported
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Although most visitors were positive about the event - for example, one guest expressed interest in continuing to serve, age permitting - the event also had its share of critics. They criticized the development of armaments in Europe and accused the Bundeswehr of having too large a military presence. Their legitimate concerns have been loudly voiced, with young people increasingly taking part in protests to fight against militarization and the possible reintroduction of conscription.[Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung] shows that...
A look at the future
The public perception of the Bundeswehr and its activities is changing, and the use of creative forms of protest is becoming increasingly popular. From demonstrations against Bundeswehr advertising to specific actions such as that of young activists who doused themselves with red juice to point out the dangers of the military. Despite the enormous 58 million euros spent on Bundeswehr advertising in 2024, resistance remains noticeable. These signs of protest are not only a reaction to military advertising, but also a call for active participation in society and a reminder that the issue also affects future generations.[Rosa-Luxemburg-Stiftung] constatet...
Ultimately, it becomes clear: The “Bundeswehr Day” in Garlstedt was not only a show of military fascination, but also a reflection of the overall societal discussion about peace, responsibility and the future of young people in Germany.