My School of Life: Carsten Breuer on His Journey from the Anti-War Movement to the Bundeswehr
The Zeit: Mr. Breuer, when you were a high school student, Germany was experiencing the height of the peace movement. Yet, after graduating, you joined the Bundeswehr. Were you the only one from your class to do so?
Carsten Breuer: I grew up in the rather conservative Sauerland region, where attitudes towards the Bundeswehr were mixed. From my graduating class, three of us enlisted in the Bundeswehr. However, when I reported for duty in Achim near Bremen in 1984, the sergeant major told us on the second evening that we should avoid wearing our uniforms when leaving the barracks and venturing into Bremen. He explained that it was not well received there. And that was putting it mildly.
Breaking Ranks: From Pacifism to Patriotism
My decision to join the Bundeswehr was a departure from the prevailing anti-war sentiment that permeated my adolescence. As a teenager, I had been deeply involved in the peace movement, participating in demonstrations and advocating for nuclear disarmament. The prospect of military service filled me with trepidation.
However, my experiences during my military service profoundly altered my perspective. I encountered a diverse and dedicated group of individuals who shared a common goal of serving their country. The camaraderie, discipline, and sense of purpose I found in the Bundeswehr appealed to me, and I gradually came to appreciate the vital role the armed forces play in ensuring Germany’s security.
From Idealism to Pragmatism
My transformation from a pacifist to a supporter of the Bundeswehr was a gradual one, shaped by a growing understanding of the realities of international relations. I recognized that the peace and prosperity we enjoy in Germany depend on a strong and capable military that can deter potential aggressors and respond effectively to crises.
While I remain committed to the ideals of peace and non-violence, I believe that a robust defense is an indispensable means of achieving those goals. The Bundeswehr is not simply an armed force; it is also a symbol of Germany’s commitment to international cooperation and its responsibility to contribute to global stability.
Navigating the Political Divide
My decision to join the Bundeswehr did not come without its challenges. As I mentioned earlier, the military was not universally popular in Germany at the time. Some people, particularly those who had come of age during the Cold War, still associated it with the horrors of war and oppression.
However, I found that my experiences in the Bundeswehr gradually softened people’s attitudes towards the military. By engaging in dialogue with skeptics and sharing my own perspectives, I helped to bridge the divide between the civilian population and the Bundeswehr.
The Value of Service
Looking back, I am grateful for the opportunity to have served in the Bundeswehr. It was a transformative experience that broadened my worldview, fostered my patriotism, and instilled in me a deep appreciation for the importance of defense and security.
I believe that military service is a valuable experience for all young people, regardless of their future career aspirations. It teaches invaluable life lessons, such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience, that serve individuals well in any walk of life.
Moreover, I encourage everyone to engage in respectful dialogue with those who hold different views on defense and security. By fostering understanding and bridging divides, we can create a more informed and engaged citizenry that can make responsible decisions about the future of our nation and the world.
