Young recruits celebrate solemn vows in Viereck – A new path!

Young recruits celebrate solemn vows in Viereck – A new path!

An exciting chapter has begun for the new recruits in the cuirassier barracks in Viereck. On June 12, 2025, 262 young soldiers took their solemn vows, including 19-year-old Marc Vincent K., who reported on his first days of basic training. The time in the barracks is unusual and stressful for him, but with the adjustment to new rules and the challenge of lack of sleep, he hasn't thought about quitting. “It's hard, but I'm fully motivated,” he says, pointing out that his brother, who serves with the 401 Panzergrenadier Battalion, inspired him. Despite the current geopolitical situation, he sees military service as a valuable task and recommends others to take this path. This is in line with the focus of General Basic Training (AGA), which teaches basic military skills and treats all recruits equally - a challenge that new soldiers must overcome.

Jason G., the 17-year-old recruit from Greifswald, is also planning a future in the Bundeswehr and has decided on the Panzergrenadiers. He also received a visit from his family and girlfriend on vow day, who also appreciated the significance of this moment. On this special day, relatives from a wide variety of places were mobilized, including Sierning in Austria and Holzkirchen in Bavaria, to support the recruits and strengthen the military community.

Basic training in the barracks

Basic training, which is mandatory for all military members, usually lasts three months. In these first weeks, recruits learn a variety of military skills. According to the Wikipedia page on basic training), this includes, among other things, small arms training, combat service and NBC defense as well as units for political education. Recruits take their pledge approximately two-thirds of the way through their AGA, making this time a highlight of their military career.

In addition to physical training units, the program in the cuirassier barracks also includes practical exercises. From marches of up to 20 kilometers to bivouac exercises in the field, everything is offered to prepare the recruits for life in the field. The AGA begins with clothing and a medical examination, followed by adaptation to the soldier's routine. This also includes the basic fitness test and orientation marches to promote not only physical fitness, but also teamwork and cohesion.

The big day of the vow

The pledge itself is not only a crucial step in the recruits' lives, but also an open day for their relatives. Over 1,300 guests had the opportunity to find out about everyday military life and visit various stations that gave them an insight into the challenges and everyday life of a soldier. In his speech, Lieutenant Colonel Tobias Tiedau emphasized the important role of families and encouraged the recruits to see their service not just as a duty, but as a valuable life task. “Your support is invaluable,” he said.

For many of the recruits, the groundbreaking decision to enter military service is not only a commitment, but also an opportunity to achieve something greater. The dropout rate among recruits can be up to a third, which clearly illustrates the challenge and courage of those who persevere. The decision to discontinue training must be made by the 1st or 15th of the month, requiring additional consideration from recruits.

In summary, it can be said that basic training in the barracks in Viereck not only represents a challenge for the recruits, but is also a crucial phase on the way to responsible military service. It remains to be hoped that the new soldiers will find their way into the armed forces and fulfill their service with pride.