Should Germany have a Veterans' Day?

Should Germany have a Veterans' Day?


Published: 5 Apr 12 09:40 CET

Online: http://www.thelocal.de/society/20120405-41767.html

Share107 Germany is introducing a US-style Veterans’ Day to honour the sacrifices made by its military. But many remain deeply uneasy about Germany's military history and are divided by the idea. What do you think? Have your say.

•German military to get US-style Veterans' Day - National (4 Apr 12)

The number of German soldiers hurt and killed increases with every year of Germany’s involvement in active military missions – as does the number of those who return home physically intact but suffering psychological damage.

As Germany grows out of its post-war ban on sending soldiers abroad, it is learning to deal with the political and social consequences that come with that.

For many, a day to honour those soldiers who suffer while carrying out the orders of their civilian masters seems appropriate.

But in the post-war era, Germany has also built up a strong aversion to all things military and jingoist.

The annual swearing-in of new recruits often attracts protests, while traditional honour marches such as the torch-lit parades for departing defence ministers and presidents seem to sit uneasily in a modern Germany.

Is it time for the German military to finally shrug off its post World War II hair shirt and hold a veterans’ day, a contribution to the increasing acceptance of national pride? Or should Germany treat its soldiers like other professionals whose jobs involve physical and mental risk? Have your say below.

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Editor's note: ...and you WILL celebrate! Lucius Verenus, Schoolmaster, ProbateSharks.com