“For a long time, veterans were invisible in Germany… National Veterans Day is about changing that — it’s about honouring their service, but also helping them feel seen in everyday society.”
— German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius, 2024
📄 Source: DW News (April 25, 2024)
As an Australian with British dual citizenship, my journey has taken me across three countries—Australia, the UK, and Germany—each with its own approach to military and veteran support. My career and personal connection to the military community have shaped a deep commitment to helping veterans and their families navigate the complex transition from service to civilian life.
Walking Between Worlds: My Professional Journey
In the UK, I worked with the Royal Engineers Association at Brompton Barracks, providing benevolent support to serving personnel, veterans, and their families, including widows and children. Later, in Germany, I worked as part of the British Army Education Centre in Münster, North-Rhein Westphalia, helping soldiers and their spouses explore career development opportunities, including e-learning and job search strategies for life beyond the military.
Returning to Australia, I continued my work with the Australian Defence Force (ADF), supporting service members and their families in their transition to civilian careers, as well as supporting cultural adaptability through my former role with the ADF Defence Force School of Foreign Languages. I have continued my work outside of the ADF environment, supporting the veteran community.
While I have never served in the armed forces myself, my civilian roles inside and alongside both the British and Australian Defence Forces have provided me with a unique perspective. This vantage point has allowed me to connect deeply with both the challenges and also strengths faced by military personnel and their families during and beyond transitions globally.
My experiences have shown me that, while each country’s approach to supporting veterans differs, the challenges remain universal: redefining identity, addressing stigma, and finding belonging in civilian life.
A German Lens: Recognition & Renewal
Germany’s unique cultural context has always stood out to me. My time living in Münster with the British Armed Forces contingent allowed me to witness both the pride and the challenges faced by Germany’s military community. Historically, Germany’s cautious approach to military recognition stems from its complex history, often leaving veterans and their families feeling invisible in society.
Hope, History & Honouring Service
However, there is hope on the horizon. The establishment of National Veterans Day in 2024 signals a shift in public discourse, offering a long-overdue acknowledgment of service members’ contributions. This day represents an opportunity to honour those who have served while fostering open and supportive conversations about their challenges, including societal stigma and career transitions.
Looking Ahead
The Invitation: Co-Creation Across Borders
As someone who has worked with military and veteran communities across three nations, I am inspired to reconnect with Germany and collaborate with its organisations to co-create solutions that empower veterans and their families. By sharing global insights and creative approaches, we can address universal challenges while respecting Germany’s unique cultural lens.
If you are part of a German organisation supporting veterans—or simply want to explore new ideas—I would love to connect. Together, we can foster a brighter future for those who have served.
Contact:
Jenn Barfield - Holistic Career Development Coaching 