Ceremonial oath of the Bundeswehr
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There are two types of soldiers serving in the Bundeswehr (Federal Defence), regular units and conscripts. Conscription currently lasts 9 months. Thus there are two types of oaths, the one for conscripts, is only a solemn vow, since conscripts are possibly involuntarily soldiers. The oath for regular soldiers is sworn.
For conscripts:
- "Ich gelobe, der Bundesrepublik Deutschland treu zu dienen, und das Recht und die Freiheit des deutschen Volkes tapfer zu verteidigen."
Translation:
- "I vow to faithfully serve the Federal Republic of Germany and to bravely defend the right and the freedom of the German people."
Any conscripted soldier is allowed to deny taking the oath. He (as only males are subject to conscription) does forfeit any chance of promotion in this case . German conscripts have the right to deny armed service in the military for reasons of conscience. In that case they are obliged to do alternative civilian service in the social sector (in hospitals, orphanages and so on).
For other enlisted personnel, non-commissioned officers and officers (serving for a longer period of time or for lifetime):
- "Ich schwöre, der Bundesrepublik Deutschland treu zu dienen, und das Recht und die Freiheit des deutschen Volkes tapfer zu verteidigen (, so wahr mir Gott helfe).
Translation:
- "I swear to faithfully serve the Federal Republic of Germany and to bravely defend the right and the freedom of the German people (, so help me God)."
The religious part is optional in any case.
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