German Army Renames Barracks After Trailblazing Female Soldier Friederike Kruger
The German Armed Forces have renamed the Hindenburg barracks in Munster to Unteroffizier-Friederike-Krüger-Kaserne, honouring a remarkable woman soldier from the Napoleonic Wars. This move, effective September 10, 2025, makes it one of the few military bases named after a woman soldier.
Friederike Kruger, who served disguised as a man, was a trailblazer for women in the military. She received the Iron Cross for her bravery and was buried with full military honours. The renaming comes after years of proposals, including suggestions to honour Günter Kießling or Matthias Erzberger.
Women have been eligible for all military career paths in the German Armed Forces since 2001. Currently, over 13 percent of the forces are women, with the Soldier Equality Act aiming to increase this to at least 20 percent. However, excluding medical roles, the proportion of women is less than 10 percent. The renaming of the barracks is seen as a step towards greater recognition and equality.
The renaming of the Hindenburg barracks to Unteroffizier-Friederike-Krüger-Kaserne is a significant step in honouring the contributions of women soldiers. It serves as a reminder of the past and a beacon for the future, encouraging more women to join the German Armed Forces and promoting gender equality.
Read also:
- Hospital's Enhancement of Outpatient Services Alleviates Emergency Department Strain
- Increased Chikungunya infections in UK travelers prompt mosquito bite caution
- Kazakhstan's Deputy Prime Minister holds discussions on the prevailing circumstances in Almaty
- In the state, Kaiser Permanente boasts the top-ranked health insurance program
