Bundeswehr opened barracks in Cologne-Wahn: A day full of attractions!

Bundeswehr opened barracks in Cologne-Wahn: A day full of attractions!

On Saturday, June 29, 2025, the Wahn air force barracks in Cologne opened its doors for “Bundeswehr Day”. This event was the first of its kind at this location and took place simultaneously at ten other locations in Germany. Over 15,000 visitors flocked to the spacious 300 hectare site, which had not been open to the public for years. In midsummer temperatures, long queues formed at the entrance as families and interested parties arrived.

Brigadier General Daniel Draken took the opportunity to emphasize that the Bundeswehr is firmly anchored in society. “Recruiting employees is not the priority,” says Draken. Nevertheless, there were some prominent voices such as Roland Börger, President of the Federal Office for Infrastructure, who promoted the Bundeswehr and presented it as an exciting employer.

Insights into the Bundeswehr

The event offered numerous insights into the diverse fields of operation of the Bundeswehr. Luci, 19 years old from Eitorf, explained that she was interested in a career in the civilian sector of the troops. Jonathan, 8 years old, accompanied her. 17-year-olds like Leon Klossek from Bocholt were also considering a military career and see the Bundeswehr as a provider of secure jobs. Ryan Gellrich, 16, was particularly enthusiastic about an armored vehicle, the Eagle IV, and reported how his opinion of the Bundeswehr has changed for the better. He is already waiting for the entrance exam for basic training with the aim of becoming a paramedic.

The highlights of the day included not only the vehicle presentations, but also demonstrations of service dogs and maritime operations, which amazed the audience. The federal police presented their water cannons, while the fire brigade provided a high-altitude rescuer. The three A400M transport aircraft that flew over the site at midday were particularly impressive.

An event for the whole family

The event was not only intended to be a career platform, but also promoted dialogue between the Bundeswehr and civil society. In the afternoon, military music and performances by Cologne artists created a good atmosphere. The little visitors were given a paper version of the Eagle IV to cut out and glue together to take home.

“Bundeswehr Day” is celebrated annually in the third decade of June. Originally, local open days were offered, but in 2015 a nationwide uniform event took place, which was based on current events, such as the Russian attack on Ukraine, and resulted in an increase in the number of visitors. In 2024 there were already over 230,000 visitors at nine locations.

Further “open days” are on the program for the future, including on May 17, 2025 at the combat training center in Gardelegen, where, among other things, dynamic weapons shows and live demonstrations will be on display. The Bundeswehr remains an exciting topic that is very popular with many young people, whether because of their interest in technology or the diverse career opportunities.

The day in the Wahn barracks clearly showed the social importance of the Bundeswehr and the effort for transparency and dialogue. The next chance to take a look behind the scenes will certainly not be long in coming.

For further information about the event and the Bundeswehr in general, you can click here Cologne City Gazette, Today day and Bundeswehr career be visited.