Holocaust Remembrance Day

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Veronica Stamps
  • 49th Figher Wing Public Affairs Office
Holloman Air Force Base, N.M. --  Airmen from around Holloman gathered April 21 to observe the nation's annual "Days of Remembrance" which tells the story of the victims who endured the Holocaust. 

This observance allowed Holloman's to better understand the suffering of more than six million Jews at the hands of the Nazis during WWII. During the "Days of Remembrance," survivors come together to tell their story as witnesses of one of the most infamous moments in history. 

"We remember those we know and those whose very names are lost. We cherish the memories of those who died as martyrs, those who died resisting and those who died in terror," said Lt. Col. Richard Spearman, 49 Fighter Wing Chaplain. 

Students chosen from Holloman Middle School presented a unique story that memorialized and educated the public about the Holocaust. These young writers were recognized for their creative essays during the observance. 

In addition to these speeches, guest speaker Mr. Rolf A. Mitchell, a native of Berlin, Germany, shared with members of Holloman his experiences during WWII. 

"I experienced it from the onset, managed to live through it and am here to tell you about it today," the U.S. Army veteran said. 

From his migration to the U.S. and his journey as an Army soldier, Mr. Mitchell describes himself as a Holocaust escapee- not a Holocaust survivor. Throughout his career, Mr. Mitchel has had over 25 years of distinguished Civil Service and has been rated command pilot of the Civil Air Patrol. He has also served in the CAP for 21 years. 

"Be vigilant. This and other nations must never again stand by and permit such discrimination and genocide to recur," said Mr. Mitchel, before leaving the audience with four words. "Forgive yes, forget never." 

For more information about the Holocaust or the Days of Remembrance observance, please visit the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum website at www.ushmm.org.