A disc jockey plays the first verse of the Deutschlandlied at a Bundeswehr Christmas party in Delitzsch - an investigation is now underway. "Extensive disciplinary investigations" have been initiated and the checks also include the civilian service provider, said an army spokesperson when asked by the German Press Agency.
He explained: "Playing the lyrics of the first verse of the Deutschlandlied is in no way compatible with our values." The "Song of the Germans" was written by August Heinrich Hoffmann von Fallersleben in 1841.
However, it was misused by the National Socialists for propaganda purposes ("Deutschland, Deutschland über alles ..."). Today, only the third verse with the words "Unity and justice and freedom" is the national anthem. However, the other verses are not banned.
