Two soldiers from the German airborne regiment 26 caused a stir on the Zweibrück Christmas market last Saturday when they appeared in combat gear, wearing Santa hats and carrying weapons next to the Bundeswehr’s pea‑soup stand.
Police confirm armed “Christmas men”
According to the Westpfalz police press office, the Zweibrücken police station received a call around 14:45 p.m. reporting “armed Christmas men” on the market. A patrol arrived and identified two “as Santa Claus dressed Bundeswehr personnel” in protective vests at the military‑run stand.
The men were found with three weapons: two firearms without magazines and unloaded, and a “security weapon with ammunition”. The police are now checking whether the conduct breaches the weapons law or other regulations.
Military’s explanation
Colonel Lieutenant Martin Holle, commander of the Fallschirmjägerregiment 26 stationed in Nieder‑Auerbach, said the two soldiers had been assigned by their company commander to “militarily frame” the soup stand, including wearing their uniforms, personal equipment and sidearms.
The deployment was halted soon after because visitors were unsettled, and the patrol documented the incident. Holle added that the regiment is cooperating with the city of Zweibrücken and the local police while reviewing the matter.
Weapon details and intent
Holle confirmed that the third weapon was a “security weapon” – an armed pistol held by a superior to secure the other firearms, as required for such situations. He stressed that displaying weapons and equipment at public events is “legitimate”, but acknowledged the presentation may not have been “properly prepared”.
He explained that soldiers are trained to handle weapons not for showmanship but because their core mission is the defence of the democratic constitutional order.
Commander offers dialogue
Holle apologized, stating: “To all guests who felt disturbed by the presence of equipped soldiers, I would like to apologize personally and from the heart.” He invited interested visitors to meet him at the soup stand on Saturday, 13 December, from about 13:00 hours for a personal conversation.
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly did the soldiers wear and carry?
They wore combat uniforms with high‑neck hose‑scarves, Santa hats and protective vests, and were equipped with a storm‑rifle, a machine gun and a pistol, though the two rifles were without magazines and unloaded.
Why were the soldiers present at the market?
According to the regiment’s commander, they were tasked by their company commander to “militarily frame” the Bundeswehr’s soup stand and highlight military elements for interested visitors.
What actions are being taken after the incident?
The police are reviewing whether a weapons‑law violation occurred, and the regiment has revised its approval procedures for future participation in public events, working closely with the city and police.
How should public events balance military displays with community expectations?
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