SWG and the Bundeswehr seal partnership

Stadtwerke Gießen and the Hesse State Command of the German Armed Forces are jointly committed to homeland security and overall defence.

There are more and more trouble spots around the world, which give rise to various, sometimes threatening risks. In view of these developments, Germany needs to be prepared for various conceivable scenarios. As part of these precautions, an integrated security concept has been developed. Among other things, it provides for companies to become involved as partners in homeland security and overall defence.

Stadtwerke Gießen (SWG) is happy to fulfil this important request out of conviction. "We are facing up to the situation and want to play our part in protecting our homeland," says Andreas Hergaß, Commercial Director of SWG, explaining the decision to enter into the "Homeland Security and Total Defence Partnership" with the German Armed Forces.

Released for training
The centrepiece of the cooperation is SWG's willingness to release employees for the necessary homeland security training. "We have always made it possible for volunteers - whether in the fire service or other organisations - to carry out their important tasks for society during working hours. It is therefore a matter of course for us to enter into this partnership with the German Armed Forces," explains Matthias Funk, Technical Director of SWG.

But what exactly does homeland security mean in this context? In the event of a crisis, the volunteers ensure the protection of defence-critical infrastructure as well as securing marching and transport routes. They also provide assistance in regional disaster situations. "In order to be able to carry out these tasks, the dedicated men and women need appropriate training and a certain amount of training," explains Lieutenant Colonel Christiann Storck, Regional Representative Central of the Bundeswehr. Homeland Security usually schedules ten days per year for corresponding exercises. The costs incurred during this time for wages, salaries and health and social insurance are covered by the Bundeswehr - at least up to a fixed amount.

The Hesse State Command is looking for officers and reserve staff officers for its district and district liaison commands. For further information, please call (0611) 799-8333.