Understanding Germany's Approach to Commemorating Fallen Soldiers

When we speak about the celebration of the death of our countrymen, it appears to be a rather unusual choice of words. However, clarifying the question, we are essentially discussing whether there is any veneration of soldiers who died in World War I and World War II. In a more narrow sense, I have to say no, as while we do mourn the loss of our loved ones during wartime, including soldiers, on both a familial and local level, with many communities erecting monuments for local soldiers who fell, especially during the First World War, there is no glorification of the cause they fought for.

Germany's National Mourning Day: Volkstrauertag

On a national level, Germany has a public holiday dedicated to remembering those who died in war times: Volkstrauertag. This day is marked as a time of national mourning. Despite its somber nature, the observance does not glorify anything related to war. It is a simpler act of remembrance, a day to honor those who have fallen. Unlike other countries that may have more elaborate and celebratory memorials, Germany’s approach is grounded in a sense of loss rather than a celebration of historical victories or the causes for which soldiers died.

The Origin and Purpose of Volkstrauertag

First established in 1919, Volkstrauertag initially honored the victims of the deadly cholera epidemic and the war dead. Over time, this remembrance expanded to include all who died in subsequent military conflicts. It is now a day where the German population collectively reflects on the human cost of war and the need to promote peace.

Remembrance Sunday: A National Ceremony

Another significant day of remembrance in Germany is Remembrance Sunday, also known as Volkstrauertag, observed annually on the second Sunday in November. This day is marked by various ceremonies and events, including a national service in the German federal parliament, the Bundestag. In 2020, Prince Charles of Wales, representing the United Kingdom, attended the ceremony, underscoring the international importance of this day.

The Ceremony at the Bundestag

The ceremony held at the Bundestag is a poignant display of remembrance and national unity. It involves a service led by the President of Germany and the Chancellor, often accompanied by members of the government and military leaders. The event is open to the public, allowing Germans from all walks of life to join in the solemn act of remembrance. The significance of this gathering lies in its ability to bring together people of diverse backgrounds, fostering a sense of common purpose and respect for the fallen.

Memorial Practices in Germany

Germans have a deep sense of commemoration for the fallen soldiers, and this is often reflected in the construction of memorials and monuments across the country. These sites serve as a physical reminder of the human cost of conflict and the importance of remembering those who gave their lives. Some of the most notable memorials include:

The Veil.ce Memorial in Berlin: This memorial honors the victims of the Stasi, but it also serves as a poignant reminder of the broader importance of remembering those that died in conflict. The Tiergarten Cemetery in Berlin: This cemetery holds the graves of German soldiers from both World Wars, serving as a final resting place and a site of remembrance. The Neue Wache: Part of a larger complex dedicated to the victims of World War I, the Neue Wache is a symbolic center for remembrance, often hosting various ceremonies and memorials.

These memorials are not merely physical reminders of the past, but they also serve as centers for education and reflection. They encourage visitors to think about the human cost of conflict and the importance of promoting peace and understanding.

A Call to Promote Peace and Understanding

While Germany does not glorify war or the causes that lead to it, the observance of Volkstrauertag and other similar days serves a vital purpose. By remembering the fallen, Germany underscores its commitment to promoting peace and understanding among nations. The memorials and ceremonies associated with these days are a way for the German people to honor the sacrifices made by their fellow citizens while also reflecting on the need to avoid the horrors of war.

Through these practices, Germany sends a powerful message that the cost of conflict is too high, and that it is in the best interest of all nations to work towards peaceful resolutions to disagreements. By doing so, Germany not only honors its fallen but also contributes to a collective effort to ensure a more peaceful and stable world for future generations.