Der Countdown läuft für das SWISS RAID The countdown for the SWISS RAID COMMANDO has begun. It will take place during the first few days of autumn. Thus, for the 16th time, this almost mythical event will gather on Swiss soil, teams from 15 various nationalities, who all share in common the taste of unrelenting efforts!

I am proud to welcome to Switzerland all these soldiers from very diverse horizons. Who are about to offer their best, during such an unordinary event. Therefore I salute the spirit of competition and fair play that they will demonstrate, thus honoring their uniform. My greetings also go out to the members of the press, the enthused public, and to all those who in any form support this important event, one of the Swiss Army’s call cards in the international arena. I am certain, that our militia army will once more provide proof of its knowledge and technical skills.

This time during the „selection” stage, the participants will go to the canton of Jura, the „action” stage will remain as previously in the mountainous Jura regions of cantons Vaud and Neuchatel. This will be an occasion for our foreign guests to discover a new region, a terrain to which we are deeply attached.

My gratitude goes out to all of the military personnel who do not directly participate in the event but who by their engagement and efforts make sure that the SWISS RAID COMMANDO is perfectly organized. Thus allowing it to take place in optimal conditions and guaranteeing that it will remain beyond all borders, an exceptional souvenir.

My best thoughts go out to our hosts and to all those who once more will have allowed this international adventure to take place on Swiss soil. I send my wishes of success to all of the SWISS RAID COMMANDO actors.

Samuel Schmid
President of the Confederation

Ladies and Gentlemen,
Swiss and foreign competitors,

I would like to welcome you to the SWISS RAID COMMANDO 2005!

As commander of the Swiss Armed Forces, I am proud that you accept the challenge of this extraordinary competition. „In shape for the mission”, at last an athletic and military event all in one.

Your objective is to advance while competing against one another. Your motivation honors you. Your personal efforts and your experience acquired here, allow our armies to better fulfill the exceptionally complex task of defending a country.

I would like to express my gratitude to the ad hoc staff of the INFANTRY TRAING UNIT 3/6 and to everyone who participated in the organization of this event, for their enthusiasm and their availability. The success and satisfaction of the competitors will be their reward.

I wish a passionate, fair play, sporting event to all participants and to the Swiss and foreign guests, as well as unforgettable days in the western part of Switzerland.

Lieutenant General Christophe Keckeis
Commander of the Armed Forces