News item | 09-09-2023 | 15:05
Camaraderie, discipline, good for professional and personal development, friends made for life. These are some of the most common memories of men who once served their military service. This has no longer been possible since May 1, 1997, when compulsory attendance was suspended. Regrettably? Then there is good news. The Service Year makes it possible to serve in the armed forces for a year. The first batch of 140 new soldiers gathered today at the General Spoor Barracks in Ermelo for the formal “kick off.”
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State Secretary for Defense Christophe van der Maat expects not only to bring in additional personnel with the Dienjaar.
“We also want to strengthen the bond between the armed forces and society,” he added during his welcome speech.
Watching Defense
According to him, the fact that there should be more feeling with society has everything to do with the deteriorated security situation on the world stage. He cited the war in Ukraine and the Russian threat as examples. “But there’s more. China’s attitude, terrorism and the possible consequences of climate change, such as hunger and refugee flows. For an answer to these threats, people look to Defense and that makes sense.”
Enlarge image Clothing has already been provided at an earlier time.
Another place for the armed forces
After years of cutbacks, the military company is no longer a closing item. There is money again to strengthen combat power and deployability. Van der Maat is very careful when it comes to personnel. “There are too few people and this will not change quickly due to the aging population,” he expects. He argues for a different place for the armed forces in society. Because, “we are all responsible for our own safety. This means, for example, that we will collaborate more with companies and outsource tasks. We will also significantly expand the number of reservists in the coming years.”
Enlarge image The first batch of soldiers that year.
Motivated professionals
Would you like to introduce compulsory military service again? According to the State Secretary, it is not the solution. “Since the suspension of conscription, Defense has developed into an efficient professional army. No matter how good the memories of some of the fathers present here are; we do not want new masses of conscripts. We are looking for motivated professionals.”
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Getting to know military life
By professionals, Van der Maat certainly also means military personnel. As far as he is concerned, this target group, which is important to Defense, can become acquainted with military life in an attractive and realistic way. “And with the extensive options that Defense offers,” he adds. “Everyone is welcome, regardless of your education or background. You all go through the same program and get to know each other. In that respect it certainly resembles conscription. And the Deen Year helps to make Defense a self-evident and visible part of our society again.”
Interesting for employers
Van der Maat is also certain that a Dienjaar on a curriculum vitae is of great added value. “Personal training and experience makes participants extra interesting for future employers. I hope this is Defense.”
The Diet Year offers the opportunity to work for one year in the navy, army, air force or military police. See here For more information.
2023-09-09 13:05:00
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