Bavarian THW Celebrates 75 Years of Disaster Response
The Bavarian Technisches Hilfswerk (THW) is celebrating its 75th anniversary this year. Established in 1950, the volunteer organisation has evolved from its post-war origins to become a vital force in disaster response, both at home and abroad. Initially formed to protect civilians from war effects and clear rubble, the THW now comprises around 16,000 volunteers in Bavaria alone. They offer technical assistance in various emergencies, from train crashes like the 2016 Bad Aibling incident to major flood disasters such as the 2021 'Orinoco' event. The organisation's focus has expanded over time to include supporting federal states' disaster control and enhancing emergency supply and restoration competencies. The THW's history is marked by significant milestones. It became a federal authority in 1953 and embarked on its first international mission the same year. Today, Bavarian THW forces continue to provide aid overseas, such as rebuilding infrastructure in Slovenia in 2023. The oldest local THW unit in Germany, located in Bad Segeberg, Schleswig-Holstein, stands as a testament to the organisation's longevity and historical significance. To commemorate its 75th anniversary, the Bavarian State Chancellery is hosting a reception for THW members in Munich. The event recognises the volunteers' dedication and the organisation's evolution from a post-war civilian order service to a crucial provider of technical assistance in emergencies.
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