Ansbach Weekly

Qualify for Army 10-Miler - Qualify virtually by running May 2 or June 27. Register...

TAP services no longer local - Transitioning Soldiers at USAG Ansbach no longer have local Transition Assistance Program (TAP) Counselors effective March 4, 2026. The site assignment for separating/retiring Soldiers in Ansbach is the Virtual Center. Soldiers can go to other sites (or work with them virtually) for appointments and classes. More...

Tenant Satisfaction Survey March 2-May 1 — The survey will be sent via email to all residents at USAG Ansbach Army Family Housing (AFH) and Unaccompanied Housing (Barracks) from ArmyHousingSurvey@celassociates.com. Please complete. The feedback helps the Army make improvements to housing quality. No email? No problem. More...

Weekly IMCOM Sampler - Here’s what’s happening at U.S. Army Garrisons around the world. More…

Eye on AMC - What’s happening within the U.S. Army Materiel Command—IMCOM’s senior command. More…

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• April 1-May 1: Child & Youth Services (CYS) Month of the Military Child events. More...
• April 17-19: Amsterdam and Keukenhof Gardens trip with Outdoor Rec. More...
• April 19: BOSS Commissary Day. More...
• April 19: BOSS Barracks Breakout. More...
• April 21: Financial Planning for Unexpected Life Events, 10-11:30 a.m., ACS. More...
• April 24-25: Operation Megaphone for Month of the Military Child. More...
• April 24: Nuremberg by Rail, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. More...
• April 28: Ansbach Hospital Maternity Tour with ACS. More...
• April 28: BOSS Pawsitive Prevention, 4 - 6 p.m. More...
• April 29: Domestic Abuse Awareness Month 5K Color Run, 6:30 a.m., Katterbach Fitness Center. More...
• April 30: BOSS VAT & App Class, 5 - 6 p.m. More...
• May 1: USAG Ansbach Graduation Recognition, Von Steuben, 10 a.m.
• May 2: Skydiving in Hassfurt. More...
• May 2: Army 10 Miler - Virtual Qualifier Race. Register...
• May 4-8: USAG Ansbach Spring Clean-Up
• May 12: Creating your Own Financial Plan. ACS. 10 a.m. More...
• May 21-25: Outdoor Rec trip to Italian and French Riviera. More...
• May 22: Nuremberg by Rail. 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. More...
• May 26: Ansbach Hospital Maternity Tour with ACS. More...
• June 18: USAG Ansbach annual Garrison employees Organization Day , Franken Kaserne, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
• June 23-26: Ansbach Clinic offers School/CYS Physical Rodeo to help get your child's school and sports physicals. More...
• June 27: Army 10 Miler - Virtual Qualifier Race. Register...
• Aug. 3-7: Ansbach Clinic offers School/CYS Physical Rodeo to help get your child's school and sports physicals. More...

MWR CALENDAR | ARMY COMMUNITY SERVICE CALENDAR (ACS) | DoDEA CALENDAR

• Apr. 4-26: Nürnberg Spring Fest with booths, rides and different activities. More...
• Apr. 16-19: Spring Fest Heilsbronn - Marktplatz.
• Apr. 18: The 26th iteration of the Ansbach “Kneipenjagd” (pub crawl). Tickets required. More...
• Apr. 23: Ammerndorf Brewery hosts its Beer Day - at the Minisudhaus Ammerndorf. More...
• Apr. 23: English Stand up Comedy with Nya Yeanafehn "African and American and lost in Europe" at Crazy Nates OG/Wöhrd, Nürnberg. More...
• April 24-25: 51st Ansbach Lions Club Flea Market. More...
• Apr. 25-26: Rothenburg's Spring Festival in the Old Quarter. More...
• May 1 - 3: Ansbach Mess' - Food & Feines with Various Food Trucks, Oldtimers Show and More!
• May 3: Spring Fest Neustadt an der Aisch.
• May 8 - 17: Ansbach Spring Fest at Gustav-Weißkopf-Str., Ansbach

For more Spring Fest locations click here!

• May 24: English Stand-up Comedy with Malinda Perera at Crazy Nates Wöhrder Wiese, Untere Zwingerstrasse 9, Nürnberg. More...
• May 22-25: Historic Festival Play "Master Draught" in Rothenburg. More...
• Jun. 3-7: Altstadtfest "Old Town Fest" Ansbach, downtown Ansbach
• Jun. 3-7: Franconian Beer Fest at the Nürnberg Burggraben. More...
• June 26-27: JamKraut. Mars Mushrooms leads festival of Grateful Dead-friendly tunes. More...
• Jun. 26 - Jul. 1: Summer Fair and Beer Festival in Rothenburg. More...
• Jul. 9 - 12: Auf der Ziegenwiese " On the goat meadow" Music and Cultural Event in Ansbach. More...
• Jul. 10 & 18: Music Concerts: American Music Abroad. More...
• Jul. 17-18: Heilsbronn City Fest. More...
• Jul. 25-26: Wine Fest Rothenburg. More...
• Aug. 12-16: Wine Village Rothenburg. More...
• Sept. 4-6: Imperial City Festival Rothenburg. More...
• Oct. 31 - Nov. 8: Autumn Fair with trade show in Rothenburg. More...

Fewer Crimes in the Ansbach District

There has been a decline in many areas, but according to police, the number of unreported sexual offenses is particularly high. Overall, crime in the Ansbach district continued to decline in 2025. However, this does not apply to all areas, explained Cora Miguletz, head of the Ansbach Criminal Investigation Department, at the presentation of the crime statistics at the District Office. 4,853 crimes were recorded last year, 89 fewer than in 2024. The clearance rate remained almost unchanged at 67.3 percent. This rate is below the Bavarian average (68.1 percent), but above the average for Middle Franconia as a whole (66.6 percent). (Fraenkische Landeszeitung, April 17, 2026)

Germany apparently intends to offer minehunters

Germany wants to participate in a potential mission to secure the Strait of Hormuz. Chancellor Friedrich Merz has signaled this willingness several times in recent weeks. He has not provided any further details. The ARD Berlin studio has now learned from government sources that such participation could include mine clearance and maritime long-range reconnaissance – if key conditions are met. These include, for example, an end to hostilities. Furthermore, a mandate from the German Bundestag and a viable military concept would be required. Then the Bundeswehr could assume corresponding tasks within the framework of an international operation, it was stated. (Tagesschau, April 16, 2026)

Application boom at the German Armed Forces: Up 20 percent

Nearly 23,000 people applied to the German Armed Forces in the first quarter – a 20 percent increase compared to 2025. The number of volunteers performing military service also rose. The German Armed Forces have been actively recruiting since the beginning of the year. In the first quarter of 2026, the German Armed Forces recorded a significant increase in applications and new recruits. By the end of March, approximately 22,700 people had expressed interest in a military career, representing a 20 percent increase compared to the same period last year. This was reported by the Ministry of Defense. The number of new recruits was around 5,800, a ten percent increase compared to the previous year. (br24.de, April 16, 2026)

Europe is accelerating a NATO fallback plan in case Trump pulls out

Amid growing concerns about U.S. reliability under President Trump, European NATO members—led by a significant policy shift in Germany—are developing contingency plans to ensure Europe’s defense using existing NATO structures should the U.S. withdraw or reduce its commitment. Dubbed “European NATO” by some, the initiative aims to increase European leadership in command roles, supplement U.S. military assets, and preserve deterrence against Russia, while also addressing operational continuity and nuclear credibility. The effort, which accelerated after Trump’s threats to leave NATO and seize Greenland, involves practical planning for air and missile defense, logistics, and potentially expanding France’s nuclear umbrella. While Europe faces challenges due to its historical reliance on U.S. capabilities, the transition is underway, with more Europeans in key NATO posts and joint projects to bolster defense capacity, marking a fundamental shift toward greater European responsibility within the alliance. (Wall Street Journal, April 14, 2026)

US Special Forces Practice Infiltration at Training Area in Bavaria

In February, US soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 10th Special Forces Group conducted a challenging infiltration exercise at Bavaria’s Hohenfels training area, covering over 145 kilometers in a week while avoiding detection by humans and drones. Operating in teams and enduring harsh winter conditions, the Green Berets practiced behind-enemy-lines tactics, drone deployment, and camouflage without specialized equipment to simulate real-world battlefield scenarios, particularly the complexities of modern electronic and drone warfare. The exercise highlighted the increasing difficulty of remaining undetected due to advanced sensor technology and ongoing efforts to develop protective gear that blocks heat signatures. (focus.de, April 14, 2026)

Secret Meetings: The List of Bilderberg Participants

The 72nd Bilderberg Meeting concluded in Washington, bringing together around 140 influential figures from politics, business, the military, academia, and media for confidential discussions under the Chatham House Rule, which prohibits attributing statements to individuals. While the conference, held annually since 1954, is intended as an informal transatlantic forum, it faces ongoing criticism for its lack of transparency and absence of official outcomes. This year’s agenda included topics such as artificial intelligence, digital finance, energy, global trade, and geopolitical conflicts involving Russia, China, Ukraine, and the Middle East, but the specific content and impact of the discussions remain undisclosed.

(Berliner Zeitung, April 13, 2026)

Minutes Instead of Hours: Chinook Demonstrates Pioneering Capabilities

During an exercise in Grafenwöhr on April 8, 2026, the U.S. military demonstrated rapid bridge-laying operations using CH-47F Chinook helicopters, showcasing the ability to deliver bridge components to challenging terrain within minutes and enabling swift river crossings—capabilities of great interest to the German Armed Forces, which have ordered 60 CH-47F Block II helicopters for delivery between 2027 and 2033. The German Chinooks will feature around 20 modifications, including advanced communications, reconnaissance, and defensive systems, and will replace the aging CH-53G fleet. This modernization will enhance Germany’s operational mobility and interoperability with NATO allies, particularly in overcoming destroyed or inaccessible infrastructure during high-intensity conflicts. (Defense-network.com, April 10, 2026)

Wildflecken's Support for Ukraine is an Important Contribution to European Security

During a visit to the Rhön Barracks in Wildflecken, SPD MP Sabine Dittmar and Mayor Jan Marberg learned how the Army's Combat Simulation Center uses advanced computer-aided simulations to realistically train brigade and division command posts for modern warfare, following NATO procedures and employing systems like SIRA and KORA. The center not only prepares German commanders for national and collective defense but also plays a key role in training Ukrainian brigade staffs, with over 4,000 Ukrainian soldiers trained since 2023 through its "Training Hub South." The facility is recognized as a vital employer and strategic asset for European security, with its importance set to grow due to expanding digital capabilities and international cooperation. (Mainfranken News, April 10, 2026)

Community superintendents in DODEA to be nixed in favor of greater classroom funding

The Defense Department education system is getting rid of positions described as district superintendents’ alter ego, as its new leader pushes to funnel more resources back into schools. Elimination of an unspecified number of community superintendents and their support staff in the Department of Defense Education Activity, also known as the Department of War Education Activity, or DOWEA, was announced Wednesday in an email to all agency employees. (Stars and Stripes, April 10, 2026)

Secret Defense Plan in Nuremberg

In the event of war, hundreds of thousands of soldiers and tanks would have to be transported across Germany. Nuremberg is a hub for this. Nuremberg is, in theory, a massive military hub. Nuremberg is preparing for a major NATO military exercise, "Land Shield," in 2027, which will see large-scale troop and vehicle movements across Germany, highlighting the city’s strategic importance as a transport hub due to its highways, port, freight yard, and airport. The city faces significant challenges in upgrading infrastructure, especially bridges, to support military logistics, requiring billions in investment and coordination between federal, state, and local governments. While traditional WWII bunkers are no longer viable for civil protection, Nuremberg is focusing on adapting subway stations, underground garages, and basements as emergency shelters, aiming to digitally map these resources for public access. Despite having robust information points and a modern siren system, the city acknowledges that both civil and military defense preparations will demand substantial effort and resources in the coming years. (Nuernberger Nachrichten, April 11, 2026)

Speed Camera Marathon on Wednesday

Bavaria will once again be holding its annual "Speed Camera Marathon" on April 15, 2026. Drivers in the region should expect intensive speed checks on the roads that day. The Bavarian Ministry of the Interior has announced the locations of the speed cameras in advance. This 13th Bavarian Speed Camera Marathon is part of "Speedweek," a week of action for greater road safety. This year, it takes place nationwide from April 13 to 19. During this period, police in Germany typically focus on ensuring that drivers are traveling at appropriate speeds.

From Wednesday, April 15, at 6:00 a.m. until Thursday, April 16, at 6:00 a.m., numerous speed checks are expected. The Bavarian police will be present at a total of 1,570 locations this year. In 2025, there were 100 fewer.

Police will be active at four locations in the city of Ansbach and at 14 in the Ansbach district. This is slightly more than in 2025, when the list included three locations in the city of Ansbach and 13 in the Ansbach district.

The following speed cameras are reported in the city of Ansbach:

• St 1066 outside the city limits near Käferbach,
• district road AN 3 in Meinardswinden, St 2223 towards Alberndorf,
• B14 in Katterbach.
• Further locations are known in the Ansbach district.
• Aurach: Weinberger Straße in the "Am Wahrberg" area;
• Dietenhofen: AN24 near Lentersdorf;
• Dinkelsbühl: St 2218 at the junction towards Steineweiler;
• Feuchtwangen: Ringstraße 86 Elementary School and St 1066 towards Reichenbach; Heilsbronn: Nürnberger Straße Elementary School;
• Lichtenau: St 2223 at the junction towards Kirschendorf.
• Continuing in Rothenburg: St 1022 at the junction to Schnepfendorf and at the school on Topplerweg;
• Unterschwaningen: St 2221 near Dennenlohe;
• Steinsfeld: AN8 level crossing near Hartershofen; Wilburgstetten:
• B25 near Greiselbach;
• Windsbach: B466 near Pippenhof and twice on St 2220, once towards Ismannsdorf and once after the junction to Wolfsau towards Hergersbach.

(Fraenkische Landeszeitung, April 11, 2026)

Americans from the Illesheim barracks at Dottenheim Veterans' Association

It could become a tradition: The Dottenheim Veterans' Association once again invited soldiers from the Illesheim barracks to a Schäufele dinner at the Gasthaus Hufnagel in Walddachsbach. Fifteen soldiers from the 603rd ASB (Aviation Support Battalion) attended.

The visitors, including Commander LTC Jeff Rigney, enjoyed the Franconian hospitality. And when the Schäufele was served, the soldiers were amazed. "It tastes so great," was heard several times that evening. Previous strangers became friends.

Further opportunities for joint meetings with the unit were already being explored. As a token of gratitude and appreciation, the Dottenheim veterans' association received a battalion medal and a certificate of thanks from the commanding officer for the invitation to the traditional Schäufele (pork shoulder) dinner. This also recognized their contribution to fostering community relations within the district.

The certificate will now be given a place of honor in the village hall. The unit will remain stationed in Illesheim until June. The Dottenheim residents will then invite the next unit to their annual church fair at the end of September: this too has become a tradition. (Fraenkische Landeszeitung, April 9, 2026)

US Soldiers and the Justice System: Who Takes Charges in Cases of Crime in the Upper Palatinate?

urisdiction over crimes committed by US soldiers in Germany is governed by the NATO Status of Forces Agreement (SOFA), which outlines when German or US authorities take the lead, often depending on the nature of the offense and the interests of each country. While Germany typically has jurisdiction over crimes affecting its security, the US may prosecute offenses against its own property or laws, and Germany can defer prosecution if the US expresses special interest. Cooperation between German and US authorities is essential, with cases sometimes transferred to the US military justice system (UCMJ), which allows for a range of judicial and extrajudicial punishments distinct from civilian courts. (weiden24.de, April 9, 2026)

Train service disruptions Nuremberg-Ansbach April 10-12

Due to construction work all S-Bahn trains on line S4 between Ansbach and Nuremberg will be canceled this weekend, April 10-12. On Friday, April 10, the disruption is limited to the section between Nuremberg-Schweinau and Nuremberg Central Station, with most S4 services beginning and ending at Nuremberg-Schweinau and an early departure for the morning express. The Regional Express RE90 will run as usual on Friday.

On Saturday and Sunday, all stops between Nuremberg and Ansbach will be affected. A replacement bus service will operate for the S4, with most buses departing from Eibach at Hafenstraße (connecting to the S2 suburban train) and an additional connecting stop at Röthenbachcenter (serving the U2 subway line). The RE90 will start and end its journey in Ansbach with bus services covering the section to Nuremberg, resulting in travel times more than twice as long as usual. The current train status is available at https://int.bahn.de/en or in the DB Navigator app.

Train service disruptions Nuremberg-Ansbach, April 18 to July 9

Attention DB S4 Passengers on the Ansbach-Nuremberg route: Due to major construction work (slope stabilization between Roßtal and Heilsbronn and switch replacements near Nuremberg Central Station), S4 service will be drastically reduced from April 18 to July 9, 2026. Expect hourly service with additional peak-hour trains that will bypass several stops (Heilsbronn, Raitersaich, Roßtal-Wegbrücke, and Roßtal), the morning express from Nuremberg to Ansbach is canceled. The current train status is available at https://int.bahn.de/en or in the DB Navigator app.

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