It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of our esteemed Honorary Member, Bernhard Gertz.

Bernhard Gertz was a long-standing, active Board Member of the European Organisation of Military Associations and Trade Unions (EUROMIL). His contributions to the organization were unparalleled, reflecting his unwavering commitment to advancing the rights and welfare of military personnel across Europe.

For many years, he served as the Federal Chairman of the Deutscher BundeswehrVerband (DBwV), one of EUROMIL’s founding member associations. Under his leadership, DBwV remained the largest member association under EUROMIL’s umbrella.

Bernhard Gertz served as Vice President of EUROMIL for over 15 years and acted as President in 2005-2006. Throughout his tenure, he was a reliable and steadfast supporter of EUROMIL’s Presidents, always offering his strategic guidance and expertise.

His outstanding connections in parliamentary and security policy circles and his international experience significantly bolstered EUROMIL’s reputation. Under his influence, EUROMIL became a recognized discussion and negotiation partner for politicians and military leaders at all levels.

Bernhard was instrumental in relocating EUROMIL’s office from Bonn to Brussels in 1995. This critical move established EUROMIL’s direct lobbying efforts with European institutions and cemented its role as a vital voice for military associations and trade unions.

In April 2022, EUROMIL’s 125th General Assembly proudly awarded Bernhard Gertz with Honorary Membership in recognition of his exceptional service and dedication, an Honorary Membership we had the privilege of bestowing upon him during the 50th birthday celebration of EUROMIL in Bergisch Gladbach in September 2022.

On this occasion, Emmanuel Jacob, President of EUROMIL in succession of Bernhard Gertz, shared:
“I’m personally deeply touched being informed of Bernhard’s passing away. Bernhard was my EUROMIL father and opened the way to my Presidency, being supported many years with him as Vice President. I owe him a lot and I’m grateful that I had the opportunity to act together with him. But also EUROMIL owes a lot to Bernhard Gertz. Without him, EUROMIL would not be what it is today. My deepest feelings go out to his wife, his children and family. Bernhard Gertz’s legacy will continue to inspire me and, I hope, for the decades to come, EUROMIL and its member associations.”

We extend our deepest condolences to his family, friends, and all who had the privilege to work alongside him.

He will be greatly missed.

Condolences can be sent to euromil@euromil.org, and they will be collected and shared with his family.

Please find here a message from the DBwV.