The "Giardino Group" provides insight into Switzerland’s turbulent history at the Meisterschwanden Military Collection

The “Giardino Group” is an association of Swiss citizens who are committed to rebuilding an effective militia army and supporting armed neutrality. This in contrast to the NATO course pursued by the Federal Council and the army leadership. “Giardino” was the internal name for the preparation of the Rütli Report of 25 July 1940, for which General Henri Guisan, Commander-in-Chief of the Swiss Army, had gathered all senior officers on the Rütli meadow. In view of the uncertainty in the army and politics following France’s defeat, he demanded an uncompromising stance of resistance against the neighbouring superpower. The real basis for this was Guisan’s Réduit strategy, which he outlined briefly. It was the main military reason why Switzerland was spared an attack.
  Founded in 2010, the organisation regularly holds events with lectures and guided tours and critically monitors current Swiss military policy. It publishes the “Giardino News” four times a year. On 4 October, the annual family day took place, during which experts gave guided tours of the extensive military collection in Meisterschwanden (AG). The museum is an impressive place of encounter, education about the country’s history and remembrance.
  Countless exhibits from the artillery, air defence and other branches of the armed forces, as well as military vehicles, weapons, ammunition and much more, are on display in various rooms and large halls. Led by former Colonel in the General Staff Peter Stadler, we were able to view artillery pieces, anti-aircraft guns, armoured reconnaissance vehicles, radio equipment, drones, jeeps, massive Saurer and Berna trucks, medical stations and vehicles, motorcycles, bicycles and catering stations, among other things. These included the Swiss-made Superfledermaus fire control device from 1969 and a mobile anti-aircraft missile system called Rapier, of English origin, from 1984, both fully functional and liquidated without reason in 1985 and 2022 respectively. From machine guns, helmets, sabres, uniforms and badges to catering stations and a medical operating theatre where life-saving procedures were performed behind the front lines – all of this brings to life what it means to be a soldier in the field. Particularly impressive is a display case with two headgear items belonging to General Henri Guisan. There were also posters from the “Diamond Collection” on display, which were used to mobilise the population to support national defence.
  At the end, we honoured the impressive tour with our applause. The event was rounded off with a hearty lunch and a quiz followed by an award ceremony. A visit to the museum is also highly recommended for school classes and anyone else who is interested, as it brings an important part of our country’s history to life. •

Giardino Group: https://www.gruppe-giardino.ch; 
Military Collection Meisterschwanden: http://www.militaersammlung.ch