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Holocaust Survivor Honored at 100 with German 'Stolpersteine'
9 Nov
Summary
- Holocaust survivor Fred Behrend celebrated his 100th birthday in November.
- Brass 'Stolpersteine' markers were placed in his German hometown.
- Behrend escaped Germany at age 12 and later settled in the U.S.
Fred Behrend, a Holocaust survivor, recently celebrated his 100th birthday on November 3rd. His German hometown, Lüdenscheid, marked this milestone by installing Stolpersteine, brass markers that signify the last voluntary addresses of Holocaust victims. These markers, bearing the names of Behrend and his parents, are a deeply meaningful tribute for him.
Behrend escaped Germany at the age of 12, leaving his home in Lüdenscheid due to discriminatory school policies. His uncle's significant financial support enabled his escape to Cuba, and he later immigrated to the United States. He hopes future generations will learn from the past about the dangers of hatred and the importance of standing against injustice.
Behrend, now residing in Voorhees, N.J., participated in the ceremony via Zoom. His children, Andrew and Evelyn, were present in Lüdenscheid. He recalled previous visits to his hometown, including bringing his late wife in 1991 and his children on another occasion. Behrend is also the author of 'Rebuilt from Broken Glass: A German Jewish Life Remade in America'.
