A Remarkable Reunion: Soldier and Survivor Meet After 80 Years

In Los Angeles, two elderly men, Jack Moran and Andrew Roth, shared an emotional embrace. Moran, a former U.S. Army soldier, and Roth, a Holocaust survivor, had a unique connection. Decades ago, Moran helped liberate the Buchenwald concentration camp where Roth was imprisoned.

A Shared Past

Both men were teenagers during World War II. Moran fought in brutal battles, like the Battle of the Bulge, and witnessed immense loss. Roth survived the horrors of Auschwitz and Buchenwald, facing starvation and harsh conditions. Their meeting was organized by the USC Shoah Foundation, which preserves Holocaust survivor testimonies.

The Importance of Their Stories

The Holocaust was a dark period in history, with six million Jews killed by the Nazis. Today, only about 220,000 survivors remain worldwide. The USC Shoah Foundation is working to document their stories before it's too late. Rob Williams, the foundation's CEO, emphasizes the importance of these testimonies in understanding and preserving history.

A Moment of Reflection

Moran and Roth's stories highlight the atrocities of war and the Holocaust. Moran recalls seeing many young soldiers die and the grim sights he encountered as the Army advanced. Roth remembers the constant struggle for survival and the life-and-death choices he had to make.

A Reunion of Hope

Their reunion was a powerful moment. Moran expressed his admiration for Roth's survival, while Roth celebrated his liberation day, marking the end of his imprisonment. The USC Shoah Foundation shared a document from Roth's liberation, helping him reconnect with his past.

Finding Meaning in Their Experiences

The meeting was not just about sharing stories but also about finding meaning in their experiences. Both men carry the weight of their past but also the hope that their stories can educate others. As the number of survivors dwindles, their testimonies become even more vital in ensuring that the lessons of history are not forgotten.