Help for people in extreme situations

“Providing vital assistance to people in dangerous situations or supporting other aid organisations with technical assistance – that’s our mission. I’ve been a volunteer with the THW for more than 18 years, currently as group leader of the rescue group in our local organisation in Speyer. The THW operates both in Germany and abroad. Our domestic missions differ considerably, ranging from simple support services for the fire and rescue services – such as providing lighting or doing rescue work– through to large-scale operations in the event of catastrophes such as the flood disaster 2021 in the Ahr valley.  

The THW provides assistance abroad at the request of the country concerned. In 2023, I was in Turkey as a member of SEEBA, the THW’s rapid deployment unit for rescue abroad. After the severe earthquake, we searched for survivors under the rubble with search dogs and rescued them using our technical equipment. You can’t imagine the extent of the destruction and what the people suffered.  

Assignments like these are tough and have had a huge impact on me. At the same time, I’m motivated by the opportunity to help people in extreme situations. It means a lot to me to see their gratitude and sense of relief. I also appreciate the community in the THW – we’re a strong team based on absolute mutual trust. Of course there are always challenging moments, but our extensive training and mutual support help us deal with difficult situations psychologically as well.”