War Game, Model Display, Opening a Barrier…

Szöveg: hm.gov.hu | 2010. szeptember 17. 7:09

The 1st International Military and Technology History Vehicle and Model Display was mounted on September 11–12 at Pécs with a view to starting a tradition. The ceremonial opening of the event organized under the name Hatejamo (Japanese word meaning ‘spirit of combat’) took place in Széchenyi Square where Defence Minister Dr. Csaba Hende delivered a speech in front of the troops who were lined up in formation and dressed in historic uniforms.

The Defence Minister pointed to the importance of the military historic associations, stressing that the Ministry of Defence is going to support them with all available means. He added that they intend to introduce a system of quality assurance for tradition preserving activities. He also noted that although the spectacular shows of re-enacters are called war games, in fact these are not games but rather very serious activities.

At the venues of the event – namely Expo Center and Pécs Plaza – those interested could see among other things the model display, listen to the stories of HDF troops serving in ISAF, Afghanistan and try out some veteran combat vehicles. Battles of various ages (Roman, Middle Ages and the Napoleonic era) were re-enacted during the war games on both days to entertain the visitors who gained an insight into the everyday life of military camps. The display of aircraft, tank and helicopter models was another highlight in the program.

On September 11 the residents of Pécs had another military-related cause for celebration since Defence Minister Dr. Csaba Hende opened the barrier that had blocked a protected forest way on the Tubes Hill. Being entitled to do so, the town of Pécs had declared the public road leading to the radar station that was to be constructed on the hill a private forest road and closed it to through traffic. However, the Supreme Court has ruled that no military radar station can be built on the hill, so the barrier is no longer needed.