At the traditional end-of-year event, the Military Command thanked its external partners and military service units for their support and cooperation in 2019. Military Commander Brigadier General Kurt Wagner also thanked all employees of the Vienna Military Command for their achievements.
The information and performance show of the Vienna Military Command on the national holiday in 2019 took place in a reduced form exclusively at Heldenplatz and was held under the motto: “What we can do today, we won’t be able to do tomorrow.” “Despite the absence of helicopters and tanks, hundreds of thousands came to see the Austrian Armed Forces and were impressed by the presentation of the soldiers’ diverse range of tasks, but also expressed that more needs to be invested in the armed forces for the security of the population,” summarized Brigadier Wagner. Brigadier Kurt Wagner then gave an insight into 2020 and focused on the “Network 20” exercise together with the Vienna Provincial Police Directorate as an example alongside many routine tasks. “The minister’s report on the Austrian Armed Forces 2030 will hopefully be listened to by the next government, as all experts agree that protecting the population will not work without a higher regular budget and additional investment,” said the military commander.
Under her motto “Only quick help is effective help”, Senior Inspector Elisabeth Ockermüller received the silver plate of the Vienna Military Command. Martina Kogler, the officer in charge of voluntary weapons training, functional service and promotions of militia soldiers, was honored with the second silver plate of the Vienna Military Command for her professional competence and communication skills. Lieutenant Colonel Gerald Jaindl and Captain Martin Weissenbacher received the silver plate for their achievements in all areas of logistics as well as for their operational command and coordination of training in seven units and eight enlistment dates.
Certificates of appointment as information officers were also presented to professional and militia soldiers. Alongside the commanders, heads and specialist public relations and communications personnel at all levels, they are the main instrument for personal and direct information and communication work on issues relating to security, military and defense policy. A high-performing militia requires not only people, but also companies and managers who support it. Brigadier General Kurt Wagner thanked the design agency Gebrüder Pixel – Kränkl & Sandpeck on behalf of the Austrian Armed Forces with the Militia Seal of Approval.
