Serving one’s own country is like the ultimate gift you can give to your fellowman. A job that requires skill, courage and a sacrificial attitude, the armed forces are not for the weak hearted. It also requires mental strength as those who enlist have to be prepared to stay away from their loved ones for months on end.

Some countries make it mandatory for their citizens to enlist, like Israel, which requires that all citizens (women included) must enlist in the military for a period of 4 years. However, it is not a requirement in most countries now unlike the World Wars’ days where able men were made to enlist.

In Germany, there is the Bundeswehr, a combination of the armed forces, civil administration and procurement authorities. Officially established on November 12, 1955, the Bundeswehr was the foundation of NATO’s defense in Central Europe. Though previously intended only for defensive purposes, it is now required to guard Germany’s borders and its security anywhere in the world.

The Bundeswehr BFD provides military and vocational training for those who enroll. A federal defense training school, it attempt to find suitable training based on a person’s needs and talents. With the minimum educational qualification needed being only primary education, the Bundeswehr BFD gives more people a chance to serve their country.

While it helps its trainees get suitable employment, those who are unsatisfied with their jobs are free to resign and also receive compensation (in german Abfindung). In case of injury during service and also death, cadets and their families can claim war compensation or transitional aid from the military governing authorities.

It is a good practice to allow citizens to enroll in defense training as it is never known when the country may need able soldiers. The Bundeswehr BFD’s practice of also providing vocational and educational training is laudable as defense is not the only required skill in a person. If you’re thinking of joining the school, you will need to fill up an application form which will then be thoroughly scrutinized. If you’re accepted, be ready for some intense training and a load of discipline. After completion of four years, you will then be eligible to join the armed forces and defend your country.