The event is organized by the town of Idar-Oberstein and the Idar-Oberstein military base, with the Musikverein 1861 Idar-Oberstein e.V., the artillery school and the VdK local association in Idar taking part. The words of remembrance will be spoken by the Protestant military pastor Karl-Martin Unrath and Mayor Friedrich Marx will give the speech before the wreath-laying ceremony. Holger Noß, a member of the district administration, takes part in the event and the Bundeswehr traditionally provides the guard of honor.
This year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War. Eight decades of peace in Germany and large parts of Europe are a valuable asset that cannot be taken for granted. In view of increasing global tensions and uncertainties, remembering the victims of war and violence is once again gaining in importance. The National Day of Mourning is a reminder to remember, to pause for thought - and to take responsibility for a peaceful future.
The following commemorative events will be held by local associations and parishes. The following list provides information about the place and time of the wreath-laying ceremonies, the participants and who will speak the words of remembrance:
- Algenrodt: Memorial cemetery, 10.15 a.m. / trumpeter Peter Becker, Algenrodt interest group / Pastor Christine Wild
- Enzweiler: Memorial, 9.30 a.m. / Friends of the local community Enzweiler / Pastor Christine Wild
- Göttschied: A service will be held at 10 a.m. in the cemetery chapel, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the memorial in the cemetery / Pastor Günter Wild