As our nation celebrates this milestone anniversary, Holocaust history is a powerful reminder of the importance of freedom, democracy, and our nation’s founding principles.
Honoring American World War II Veterans
Watch descendants of Holocaust survivor Kalman Jacobson, who was imprisoned in the Dachau concentration camp, thank American World War II veteran Lockered “Bud” Gahs, who helped liberate the camp in April 1945.
We invited the public to write personal notes to American World War II veterans, who were vital in defeating Nazi Germany. Here are a few highlights from the thousands of messages we've received both in person and online. You can read more of them at the Museum's information desk in Washington, DC.
Explore Stories of Rescue, Survival and Freedom
We mark America’s 250th anniversary by honoring Americans who rescued European Jews, US soldiers who defeated Nazi Germany during World War II, and Holocaust survivors who cherished the freedom they experienced after immigrating to the United States. Discover their stories below.
Why did some Americans choose to save Jews from Nazi Europe? Discover why a Pennsylvania family rescued Jews living in Vienna and saved them from Nazi persecution.
How did American soldiers react when they witnessed Nazi atrocities? Watch three US Army veterans describe the horrors they witnessed at the newly liberated Dachau concentration camp.
What does America mean to Holocaust Survivors? Watch Holocaust survivors reflect on arriving in America and rebuilding their lives in a new country.
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