New PBS: GI Jews, Jewish Americans in World War II (2018)

[appalachiablue]

4. Glad your fil shared his WWII experiences and memorabilia with you.

This new PBS program is needed to expand people's knowledge of the war and the participation of American Jews in particular.

My father, age 24, 1st Lieut. was also at the Dachua liberation in spring 1945, after his anti-aircraft artillery unit with the 7th Army crossed the Rhine in late March. He gave me some mementoes in college when I returned from a trip to Europe- SS patches, lapel insignia, and pins. I've studied German, spent time in Munich and have seen Nuremburg and Salzburg but not Dachau which I need to do.

Years ago I obtained the Bronze Star Dad was awarded for action in combat. Unfortunately we didn't ever discuss the war much and he passed too young in the 1980s. Most of what I know is from my mother who went with him for OCS training and then waited while he was overseas. My gratitude for all the Allies' endurance and sacrifice then is immense.