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260 soldiers sworn in in Lienz – 50 years of Jägerbataillon 24 celebrated!
On September 26, 2025, 260 soldiers from Jäger Battalion 24 were sworn in in Lienz. Colonel Nuderscher emphasizes their responsibility.
260 soldiers sworn in in Lienz – 50 years of Jägerbataillon 24 celebrated!
A ceremonial swearing-in of 260 soldiers from the Tyrol Military Command and the 24th Jäger Battalion took place in Lienz on September 26th. The ceremony in the Haspinger barracks coincided with the 50th anniversary of the hunter battalion, which was formed in Lienz on July 15, 1975. Colonel Peter Nuderscher, the deputy military commander of Tyrol, gave a powerful speech in which he emphasized the soldiers' responsibility to the community and the law-abiding execution of their duties. The Federal Army is a legitimate, armed force in the state that is entrusted with the defense of Austria and its people and values.
Martin Mayerl, member of the state parliament and representative of state politics, spoke during the swearing-in ceremony about the pressing global crises that also affect Austria, such as the war in Ukraine, drone threats in the EU area, terror and cybercrime.
Background and tradition of the 24th Jäger Battalion
The Jägerbataillon 24, often referred to as the “24er”, is a high-mountain infantry unit of the Federal Army and part of the 6th Mountain Brigade. It specializes in combat strategies in mountainous terrain and is known for its use in UN and NATO missions such as UNDOF and KFOR. The soldiers have a long tradition under the motto “Ahead under the Edelweiss” and the march “24er Hochgebirgsjägermarsch”. Colonel of the General Staff Service Matthias Wasinger has been at the head of the battalion since September 2024.
Soldiers' training takes place in three phases, with an emphasis on survivability and combat in mountainous terrain. The collaboration with various communities in East Tyrol has been going on since 1982, initiated by district captain Othmar Doblader.
Current challenges and the importance of the military
During his speech, Mayerl emphasized that peace requires work, commitment and vision and that security always has a price. He made it clear that serving as a soldier is not a wellness vacation, but even difficult situations can be overcome through camaraderie. These views are reflected in the ongoing efforts of the Austrian Armed Forces, which, since its founding in the post-war period, have been characterized by the responsibility to ensure peace and security in the country.
For more information about the history of the Austrian Armed Forces and its various units, visit the Armed Forces website at bundesheer.at.