November 3, 2022 — In 1938 Frank Cohen was 13 years old when his family fled Nazi Germany. Things had been tough for the family for several years. His parents lost their sporting goods store because of the boycott against Jewish businesses. His uncle was brutally beaten by Nazis and later died from his injuries. His friends joined the Hilter youth and started bullying him at school. Frank and his immediate family escaped Germany to the United States. Eventually, he found out that 11 members of his extended family were killed in the Holocaust.
The Goodland Public Library in conjunction with the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum hosted a Zoom session with Frank in May 2022. He shared his personal story of survival and answered questions from the audience. Everyone in attendance now knows someone who survived and was an eyewitness to history.
Frank’s story continues as one of service. He was in the U.S. Army where he worked in intelligence helping the Allied effort to defeat Germany. He continued to serve for a total of 35 years, achieving the rank of colonel. Frank was married and has one daughter. At the age of 97, he is volunteering by sharing his story with people all across the world.
Chynna Mangus, a reference librarian who organized the event said “library patrons enjoyed Frank’s story and wanted more people to hear about the Holocaust from someone firsthand.” The library hopes to partner with the Holocaust Museum again for another speaker in the near future.
This program is teaching children about empathy, diversity, and peace — important life lessons. Also, it is a great way for the next generation to understand democracy and American values. Mr. Cohen is providing a wonderful service by serving his country and sharing his story with the world.
For additional information check out the following links:
Holocaust Museum interview with Frank Cohn: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Yqu2N-S-1Y
U.S. Department of Defense profile on Frank Cohn