On Tuesday, March 18, 2025, the Logistikbataillon 163 RSOM from Delmenhorst held a significant public appeal at the Ganderkesee stadium, marking a celebration of the ongoing partnership between the battalion and the municipality of Ganderkesee, which has been in place since 2021. This event was a visible demonstration of the Bundeswehr’s efforts to strengthen community ties while enhancing its public presence.
The gathering, termed a 'Quartalsappell', is traditionally a military occasion to recognize deserving soldiers through awards and promotions, but this year it took on a new significance. Not only did the event witness the inauguration of the 5th Kompanie, directed by Major Dorothea Hilker, but it also underscored the evolving mission and operational readiness of the battalion in light of growing international tensions.
Major Dorothea Hilker leads the newly established 5th Kompanie, which consists of 334 soldiers trained in logistics to set up "service points" during military operations, thereby supporting units on the ground. This development is part of a larger strategic vision outlined by Oberstleutnant Julian Huemke during his speech at the ceremony. "By the end of this year, we will have created the conditions to lead six well-trained Kompanien and almost 1000 effective soldiers," Huemke stated, highlighting the battalion's commitment to enhancing its operational capabilities.
This expansion aligns with what Huemke referred to as a 'Zeitenwende'—a shift in approach and resources indicative of the Bundeswehr’s renewed focus on its NATO obligations and overall readiness. Addressing those gathered at the stadium, Huemke emphasized the broader implications of this growth not only for the logistic forces but also for the garrison town of Delmenhorst and its partner community, Ganderkesee.
Bürgermeister Ralf Wessel also took the opportunity to reflect on the changing dynamics of international security. He noted the challenges posed by the current global landscape, particularly since the onset of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. “Since the 1990s, we have increasingly relied on the presumption that peace, freedom, and our prosperity are almost taken for granted,” said Wessel. He articulated concerns regarding the diminishing strength of pillars that have supported these assumptions, such as the economy and security guarantees, especially in light of the actions taken by major powers like the United States under the Trump administration.
Wessel acknowledged that Germany must address substantial military gaps that have persisted for decades. He remarked, “Even a sum of 100 billion euros will not suffice to rectify these shortcomings,” underlining a long journey still ahead for security policies in Europe. “If we want to stand on our own feet with reliable European partners, we have a long way to go,” he added.
The mayor also predicted that discussions regarding reinstating mandatory military service or a service obligation would gain traction. He analyzed that merely increasing salaries or upgrading facilities would not generate the necessary personnel growth in the Bundeswehr. Thus, he emphasized the importance of making the military more accessible to society, stating that the partnership with the Logistikbataillon 163 RSOM enhances the mutual benefits for all parties involved.
During the ceremony, the battalion was also awarded the flag ribbon "Einsatz," which signifies the unit’s notable involvement in international missions. This recognition serves to remind both soldiers and the public of the realities of deployments that have been a constant aspect of military life, even as the focus has shifted toward national and alliance defense. "These missions remain a vital part of our duties,” Huemke noted, referencing the battalion’s recent contributions in Iraq, Mali, and Kosovo.
Oberst Christoph Schladt, commander of the Logistikregiment 1 "Clausewitz," added weight to the discussions around future deployments, hinting at the Baltikum as a likely next area of operation. “We are still packed and ready to go,” Schladt remarked, echoing the sentiments of anticipation and preparation that pervaded the atmosphere of the event.
The Ganderkesee ceremony thus encapsulated more than just a routine military gathering; it was a strong reassurance of commitment between the armed forces and the local community. It also actively demonstrated Germany’s strategic adjustments amid a shifting global order. The renewed collaboration not only enriches the logistics battalion but reinvigorates the foundational security commitments crucial for the NATO alliance and Germany’s role within it.
As the world remains on edge regarding military engagements, and as discussions on mandatory service loom larger, the significance of events like the 'Quartalsappell' becomes increasingly clear. They are not solely formalities, but essential mechanisms for fortifying community ties and ensuring a prepared and cooperative military structure in challenging times.
