Iysh

By Greg Price

In 1940, Leo Butlion, a young Jew studying to be a medical doctor in Koblenz, Germany, has his future plans disrupted when Nazi forces destroy his family and their business. His heroic escape and commitment to survive drive him to overcome the greatest test man could ever encounter. Ivy Jacobson, a deformed yet highly talented fashion designer, works in a textile factory in Liege, Belgium That is ransacked by Nazi invaders. She escapes their brutality and meets Leo. Leo explains the Hebrew word IYSH which means “champion” and together they agree to persevere and champion the cause no matter how difficult it becomes. Their heroism and tenacity unfold in dramatic fashion as they are captured, separated and sent to concentration camps where their future survival is unclear. The story develops from WWII until the Yom Kippur War in 1973 which takes place in Israel.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Apr 25, 2022
• ISBN: 9781669820017

Book preview

Copyright © 2022 by Greg Price.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopying, recording, or by any information storage and retrieval system, without permission in writing from the copyright owner.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Rev. date: 04/22/2022

Xlibris

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CONTENTS

Dedication

Acknowledgments

Part A

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Chapter 34

Chapter 35

Chapter 36

Chapter 37

Chapter 38

Chapter 39

Chapter 40

Part B

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Part C

Chapter 1

Chapter 2

Chapter 3

Chapter 4

Chapter 5

Chapter 6

Chapter 7

Chapter 8

Chapter 9

Chapter 10

Chapter 11

Chapter 12

Chapter 13

Chapter 14

Chapter 15

Chapter 16

Chapter 17

Chapter 18

Chapter 19

Chapter 20

Chapter 21

Chapter 22

Chapter 23

Chapter 24

Chapter 25

Chapter 26

Chapter 27

Chapter 28

Chapter 29

Chapter 30

Chapter 31

Chapter 32

Chapter 33

Author’s Notes on Leo and Ivy Butlion

Authors notes on the content of IYSH

DEDICATION

To Leo and Ivy Butlion in South Africa,

who always expressed true friendship.

We’ll never forget you.

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

To all the brave men and women who persevered through the most trying time in the twentieth century.

Uncommon bravery

In unnatural circumstances

Produced unparalleled heroes

IYSH

Pronounced eesh

A Hebrew word meaning: Champion (ref. The Exhaustive

Concordance of the Bible by James Strong.)

PART A

CHAPTER 1

KOBLENZ GERMANY

FEBRUARY 1940

L EO BUTLION WALKS hurriedly down Walter Strasse on his way to his father’s large and successful clothing store called Kolnicks Mens Clothing . The late afternoon wintry weather causes the scene to be drab and unappealing as the people do their best to protect themselves from the cold by wearing thick dark colored overcoats, headgear, and gloves. Leo is finishing the last of his studies on biology at the Koblenz University where he is studying to become a medical doctor. He is enjoying his university life, and, in this, his third year is progressing very well, placing him among the top three in his class.

His steps are hasty as he scurries down the familiar city streets of the Jewish section of Koblenz, a city on the River Rhine. His pace has little to do with him trying to escape the cold weather; it is more his mental uneasiness that plagues him. He is most preoccupied with the disturbing rumors he has heard on campus this morning. This was the first time in three years he has encountered the diverse opinions of the students, and he is concerned for a number of reasons, the foremost being …he is a Jew.

On this day the five p.m. hustle and bustle of the city irritates Leo somewhat more than usual. As he walks past Strause’s Bakery, he recognizes the familiar smell of freshly baked bread and the sweetness of the cakes that have just been baked. But, this time he can’t appreciate them, due to his concern about what he has recently heard during the heated debate amongst the students on campus. He turns the corner into Brazle Strasse, and then continues his way down an alley, arriving at Affolt Strasse, the street where his father’s business is located.

As he passes the watchmaker’s shop, his childhood friend, Bulter, who also attends Koblenz University, walks from the shop into the street, and beckons to him. Leo hardly slows down as he replies, Hello Bulter, sorry I can’t stop to talk, but, I must get to my father as soon as possible.

Why? What’s the hurry? asks Bulter.

As Leo walks past Bulter, he replies, I will tell you later, but right now, I need to talk to him about the troublesome rumors I heard on campus today! Will you be home tonight?

Yes, I will, replies Bulter, as he watches Leo hurry down the street towards his father’s store.

Leo speaks louder as he walks away from Bulter, Okay, I’ll come by your place a little later, how about nine o’clock?

That will be fine. See you then, answers Bulter.

In his big rush to get to his father’s store, Leo, who is almost running by this time, leaves the sidewalk and darts across the street to the front door of Kolnicks.

By now the store is already closed and the door is locked. This aggravates Leo, so he bangs on the door while calling for someone to let him in. Leo’s oldest brother, Abe, unlocks the door for him. Leo walks hurriedly into the store, passing by his oldest brother, paying him no attention. He sees his other brother, George, pulling the light brown sheeting over the clothes on the sale racks. He merely nods at him as he passes him.

He approaches his father, Eli Butlion, who is at the cash register counting the day’s receipts, and greets him, Shalom, Father.

Without looking up at Leo, his father gives a short grunt, acknowledging that he knows Leo is there. His attention is focused on the cash register at the moment. Eli’s horn-rimmed glasses rest on the front of his large nose, and his balding head gleams from the light that hangs above the counter. Leo fidgets with his hands in the pockets of his large overcoat as he stands impatiently waiting in front of his father.

Eli, noticing Leo’s uneasiness, says to him, You look troubled. What is the matter?

Father, we need to talk! Leo’s anxious tone of voice causes his father to look at him.

Alright, son. I’ll only be a few more minutes, and then we can go upstairs for dinner. While I am closing up, why don’t you go into the stockroom and begin unpacking the new stock that arrived today? I will call you when I finish.

Leo reluctantly makes his way to the stockroom at the far end of the store. Once he gets there, he takes off his heavy overcoat and hat, placing them on the table behind the door. After a few minutes of work, however, he can’t bring himself to focus on anything else other than the alarming news that he had heard on campus earlier this morning. He abruptly leaves the stockroom and walks back to confront his father with what it is heavy on his mind.

Leo Butlion is the third and youngest son of Eli and Rachel Butlion. Since his early childhood, Leo has expressed interest in becoming a medical doctor. His two elder brothers never expressed interest in furthering their education, but preferred to be involved in the family business. The three sons are hard workers who supported their Jewish faith, family values, and live upright lives.

Leo is now confronted with news that could test these family values, and he can’t wait any longer. He must talk to his father.

Eli Butlion, now in his office, closes the door of the safe with a loud clunk, turns the key and spins the combination dial. As Leo enters the office, Eli stands up, removes his horn-rimmed glasses, and calls out to Abe and George, Boys, you go upstairs and get ready for dinner. Tell your mother that Leo and I will join you in a few minutes.

Leo’s father sits down in the large leather chair behind his desk. He looks at Leo and says, I have not seen you look so troubled. What is bothering you this much, my son?

Leo reaches for the old oak chair across the desk from Eli and sits down. Before he speaks, he moves the chair even closer to the desk, and begins their talk with this bold statement, Father, there is talk on campus that Hitler is going to continue with his blitzkrieg by invading Holland, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

What! That is impossible, says the old man.

Father, it is from a very reliable source. You know how students can ferret out information, and, sometimes, that information is true. Hitler’s forces will quickly ride roughshod over these countries, because they don’t have the manpower to resist his advances. His main aim is to eventually invade France, and then to gain control of the entire coastline! This does not auger too well for us here in Koblenz, my dear Father.

Now don’t go jumping to conclusions, Leo.

"You do know what his forces did in Berlin. You do know what they did in Munich, and in Dusseldorf. Father, Hitler has no regard for human life. He is ruthlessly murdering innocent people. He is particularly concentrating on Jews. Leo stops talking and drops his gaze to the floor. He quietly whispers under his breath, And, I have no doubt they will do the same to our Jews in Koblenz.

As he speaks, Eli looks directly into Leo’s eyes, Son, I understand your anxiety, but I don’t think we need to pay too much attention to all this.

Father, let us not be naïve. You know that they have no tolerance for Jews in Germany. Yes, I am overly disturbed, and I’m also fearful that if Hitler comes through Koblenz with his Gestapo, there won’t be a Jewish run business left here.

Eli raises his hand, Leo, please stop. Say no more. We need to make sure we get the correct information before we go assuming anything. Eli moves his chair closer to the desk and continues, But more than that, I do not believe that this government can be so narrow minded that they will keep us from continuing to run our businesses. Particularly, when they are receiving our taxes that fund their war machine!

Leo shakes his head in disagreement. You don’t seem to understand that Hitler is not only interested in taxes! He’s also much more interested in fulfilling his ideology of wiping out everyone who is not a member of the Aryan race!

The old man sounds a little irritated with Leo. Now where do you get that nonsense, Leo? Why are you listening to that hearsay that circulates around the campus?

Father, please listen to me, pleads Leo. There are a number of students who are very well connected through their father’s businesses or in other professional capacities. There is reliable evidence that the concentration camp at Dachau, outside of Munich, is filled with those who are not prepared to follow Hitler’s political persuasions. But, more than that, he is incarcerating everyone who is mentally retarded, that has a deformity, or who is a Jew or a gypsy, regarding them as problematic. Leo’s face tightens as he states, In other words, whom he can’t contend with, he will annihilate. These are facts, Father, and we must constantly be aware of them.

"Leo, what makes you think he will do that in Koblenz, this beautiful and isolated city on the Rhine River? He may, however, take offense to the fact that you and I are Jews, and that our religious persuasion does not agree with his. Nevertheless, so long as he can fill his coffers with tax money from our businesses, I don’t think he will come near us. Surely he’s not that stupid to bite the hand that feeds him."

Father, please understand. He’s not only interested in our money. Again, I am telling you, he’s also interested in fulfilling his dream of having a pure Aryan race! In my medical fraternity we hear that he has established a cabinet post whose sole function will be to breed a pure Aryan race.

Leo leans closer to his father, and lowers his voice as he continues, My greatest concern is that Hitler will advance his forces across the Rhine River into Koblenz. There is no reason for him to change his tactics. We are all destined for the same treatment when he storms into Koblenz.

I’m convinced, Leo, that you are lending your ears to students who don’t know what they’re talking about. They are all useless rumors! Nobody can be that inhumane, replies the old man as he shakes his head.

At least, Father, let’s talk to a few other Jewish businessmen in the city and find out what they have heard. I am worried for yours and Mother’s safety. And the fact that both Abe and George are in the business with you, makes us more vulnerable. After all Father, we don’t have a single non-Jew working for us. We are an entirely Jewish business.

Why do you think that would make any difference, Leo?

Leo reacts to the question and says, If we are seen employing just one person who is not Jewish, that should appease them. That way, they can see that we’re not only looking after those who are of the Jewish faith, but others, as well.

The old man shakes his head as he looks at Leo, Son, I can see that this is having a huge effect on you today. But, you must not let this all overwhelm you. These things you have heard must not have an impact on your studies. I urge you to focus on your upcoming graduation and forget the campus gossip. You have done so well in your studies, and your mother and I are so very proud of you. Please, don’t let this senseless talk affect you in this way. The old man’s love for his brilliant son echoes through the sentiment in his words to Leo.

Sadly, Leo sees he has not convinced his father. Knowing this, he decides not to continue on with the discussion. Alright, Father, I thank you for your time.

As Eli gets up from his chair and walks around the desk to Leo, he says, I am glad we had this talk. He affectionately puts his hand on his son’s shoulder, and says, as they exit the office, Let’s go upstairs and have dinner.

Eli’s kind natured wife Rachel has prepared a wonderful dinner that night. As the three boys sit with their parents around the table, Abe and George comment on the successful day they had in their clothing store. Leo, on the other hand, sits very quietly, keeping his thoughts to himself. Noticing Leo’s silence, Rachel asks him, And how was your day, son?

It was okay, Mother, replies Leo.

Quietness again fills the room, and all that is heard is the echoing of the knives and forks as they clatter on the plates. The men eat heartily, enjoying the delicious food. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee filters through the room as Rachel pours them each a cup after dinner.

At the end of the meal, Abe and George excuse themselves from the table, leaving Leo still sitting there. They thank their mother for the dinner, and leave to get ready for another day.

Eli quietly places his coffee cup in the saucer and looks slowly over to Leo. Leo senses his father’s stare and evades looking back at him. And what are your plans for the evening? asks Eli.

I told Bulter I would visit with him for a while tonight. Leo speaks softly to his father. He knows that his father is well aware that the two young men will probably talk about the goings on in Germany.

Leo looks at his mother and says, Mother, I won’t be home too late. Thank you for a wonderful supper.

She smiles and replies, I’m glad you enjoyed it, son. It’s colder than usual tonight, so don’t forget to take you coat and cap when you leave.

Leo exits from the dining room and enters the hallway to the closet. As he reaches into the closet for his jacket and cap, his father approaches him. Before his father can speak to him, Leo says to him, I didn’t have time to stop this afternoon when I saw Bulter at the watchmaker’s shop. I was in too much of a hurry to get home to talk with you.

Eli acknowledges the statement and smiles. He leaves Leo in the hall and walks towards his bedroom.

Leo descends the side stairs, and his thoughts are already focused on his meeting with Bulter.

Leo walks briskly in the cold night air, arriving minutes later at the watchmaker’s store. He presses the door bell button using their usual code. Three sharp rings, one long ring, and Bulter would know that his friend, Leo, was waiting down below. The latch on the door clicks, and Leo makes his way up to the top of the stairs where Bulter is waiting.

Hi, Leo, please come in out of the horrible cold. I’ve got coffee on, or would you prefer we go downtown?

No, I would rather not go out tonight in this cold weather. What I’ve got to say, we need to keep between us, suggests Leo.

Well, come along then, let’s go to the kitchen. We will have coffee, and you can tell me what’s on you mind.

As they walk into the kitchen, Leo says, The reason I was in such a rush this afternoon was that I needed to get to my father to tell him what I heard on campus this morning. As Leo sits down at the table, Bulter pours them a cup of coffee.

Bulter, now sitting down says, You mean the usual rumors and nonsense about the war. And how atheistic Hitler is? That he is out to eradicate everyone who’s not an Aryan. Yes, I’ve heard them all! What’s new? It’s been going on since 1935.

But have you not heard the latest?

So, what is the latest? asks Bulter.

Several students on campus were talking about Hitler’s latest ambitions. It is bantered around that he is planning to invade Holland, Belgium, and Luxembourg.

"That’s absurd, Leo. The German army isn’t that big. It can never take on the whole of Europe. He’s got no one else to support him other than that bald headed midget down in Italy."

Don’t underestimate the might of the Luftwaffe and of the Panzer divisions, Bulter! Don’t underestimate the commitment of the German foot soldier! If Hitler has the desire to conquer the whole of Europe, I’m telling you he has overwhelming resources at his disposal to do it!

Are you serious, Leo? Do you mean he is actually planning to invade the countries on the western flank of Germany, such as Holland, Belgium, and Luxembourg? Then that means everything west of the Rhine would then become Germany’s as well!

And why do you sound so excited about it, Bulter?

I’m not excited about Germany’s expanding its borders, Leo, but I find it amazing that Hitler would want to do something like that. Besides, the fact that the cultures are all different, and all the people don’t agree with what he is doing, is another issue. How does he think he can possibly succeed in doing that? Such an ego!

By sheer brute force! That’s the way he’ll succeed, Bulter!

As he leans forward across the small kitchen table closer to Leo, he says softly, Now let’s talk rationally for a few minutes, Leo. He reaches for his coffee mug, clutching it with both hands as if he warms them. He takes a sip of coffee, places the mug back on the table, and says, almost in a whisper, Should Hitler go ahead with this plan, do you realize what this will do to those who are not of the Aryan race, specifically, us Jews!

Exactly Bulter. When I went home this afternoon, this is what I told my father what I heard on campus this morning.

And what did he say? How was his reaction to what you told him?

He did not seem to show the concern I thought that he should. I tried to remind him of what happened in the Blitzkrieg in Berlin and other cities. I tried to explain to him what had happened to all the Jews that were in Berlin and Hamburg, and how they were thrown into the concentration camp in Dachau. But, still, he would not listen to me. He says these are fairy tales that I’m hearing. He says I am jumping to conclusions. Bulter, I am frightful about the future of every Jew in Germany. Not just the Jews on the eastern side of the Rhine.

Bulter’s forehead creases as he frowns, and says, Leo, now you have got me agonizing. How reliable is your source?

You know I’m friends with the secretary in the school library. Well, this friend’s father works for the government. The other night, while having dinner, his father told them that his office received news that they were to clear out their security vault, and make place for important documents that they will soon receive from Berlin. My friend asked his father from whom these documents would be coming. His father replied that the general manager of his department told him that it was from the Wehrmacht’s headquarters in Berlin. Apparently, their office building wasn’t the only one that received this order. They heard, later that day, that a few other government offices received the same instruction. Leo stops talking and sips his coffee. He places the cup on the saucer and continues, Bulter, the wheels are in motion. The military advance is long past the drawing board’s stage. I believe we will hear the sounds of marching soldiers and heavy machinery rumbling down Koblenz streets sooner than later.

I don’t like what you’re telling me, Leo, says Bulter. I don’t like this one bit. We need to find out more information.

Indeed we do, said Leo.

The two twenty-one year old students huddle around the table talking about their uncertainties late into the night.

Leo returns home just after midnight. He makes his way quietly down the hall to his bedroom, which he shares with his two brothers.

For the first time, his mild-tempered manner is in turmoil. He cannot properly comprehend all of this. His focus is now on all Jews who have worked so hard for so much of the success that they have achieved in their lifetime. He realizes that if Hitler treated the Jews in Berlin, Hamburg, Frankfurt, and Munich in such a horrible manner, what would stop him from doing it to those in Koblenz, Cologne, Maine, and the other cities on the Rhine? He is convinced that this is an out and out attack by Hitler to eradicate all peoples for whom he has so much disdain.

He now has an overwhelming fear that grips him as he quickly is becoming aware of how catastrophic conditions could develop. He is frightened for his mother and father who are on in years and would not be able fend for themselves. His brothers, Abe and George, on the other hand, are young and strong enough to take care of themselves.

With all these disturbing thoughts on his mind, he finds it hard to fall asleep. But, eventually, from sheer exhaustion, he finally drifts off into a light sleep.

CHAPTER 2

MAY 1940

S PRING ARRIVES AND most of Europe looks magnificent as it was arrayed in nature’s fine spring colors. It is particularly warmer than usual for the month of May. The flowers are radiant in all their brightest colors. The tulips beautify every home and shop front, and the boulevards, streets, and parks are a splash of color and beauty. All along the Rhine River vines are beginning to sprout, and it looks as though it will be a good season for farmers. Life seems to be normal for most of the people in Koblenz at this time. Some of the students had revved up the rumors about a German invasion of its western neighbors. However, every time somebody speaks about it there is as much information to refute their claims. It does not pacify the likes of Leo Butlion, yet he is prepared to let his emotions subside as he considers the importance of his studies above what is happening in his country.

Kolnicks opens as usual at eight am on Thursday morning. Ten minutes later a well-dressed gentleman in an all-woolen suit, bright shining shoes, with small spectacles balancing on his tiny nose, walks into Kolnicks.

Good morning to you sir, greets Abe Butlion.

I would like to see the owner of the store. The visitor’s face never creasing a smile, and merely scanning what merchandise is in the store, never looking Abe in the eye.

My father is the owner, and he is in his office. Who shall I say is calling?

Don’t bother, says the man. I will go to him.

He makes his way to the office, and sees Eli at his desk looking at the store ledger.

Old man Butlion looks up slowly at the gentleman standing in the doorway, and greets him with, Can I be of any help?

Without hesitation, the small gentleman, saying nothing, arrogantly walks into the office, and sits in the chair opposite Eli Butlion. Eli immediately discerns that this man is not there to buy anything. By the looks of his attire, he has to be a person of importance. Butlion, never saying another word, merely looks at the gentleman as he waits for him to speak.

I represent the Fuehrer. I am here to establish the nature of your business.

Butlion blinks, as he looks at him, saying, It is quite clear to see the nature of my business. I am a clothing store and have been for over forty years.

And who is employed by you? questions the visitor.

Only my two sons, Abe and George.

And what others? he asks curtly.

That is all I need to keep this small business running.

Why do you not employ anyone outside of your family?

The questions are blunt, and with a contemptuous attitude. Eli Butlion tries to remain calm. He does not want to respond to the intimidating tactic that is being applied. He is careful not to respond to him in a way that will cause him more harm than good later on.

Butlion breathes in deeply and says, Our business has done well. We pay our taxes and have never had the need to employ anyone other than our family.

The man reaches into his inside coat pocket and pulls out a multi-paged document. I must read you something, he says. You need to pay close attention, and you, also, must remember what I am reading to you today. This is from the Fuehrer himself and is addressed to all businesses.

The small government official adjusts his glasses, and then begins reading the instruction to all business owners.

Every private business owner, in whatever capacities, they are required to convert their business into military outposts, and their stock is to be made available to any and all military personal that deem it necessary for the execution of their duties. The owners of businesses will be given a fair price for whatever the military purchases. No one who cooperates with the military will be harmed.

Butlion swallows hard. For the first time in forty years, the old man feels that what he has built up over all this time is beginning to fall apart all around him. He realizes that what Leo had told him a few months earlier, was probably now beginning to take place. Hitler’s armed forces are moving westward and they need base supply camps. These would give them stockpiles wherever they were needed, along their routes as they make advances on Germany’s western neighbors.

The official continues, There is a special note by the Fuehrer for all people other than those who are of the Aryan race. You had better listen carefully.

The disgusting tone of the words that flow from the government official’s mouth aggravate Eli no end. The official takes great delight in what he reads next.

I, Adolph Hitler, hereby instruct all government officials and military personnel to ensure that anyone who is not of the Aryan race be treated with the disgust they deserve. Jews who run businesses are parasites to the German well-being and to the success of our growth and economy. If any Jewish business flourishes in this time of war, it will be evidence enough that they are feeding off the true Aryan race. Any business which is owned by a Jew, whether it is an attorney’s firm, a doctor’s practice, or any practical involvement, such as in a bakery, a clothing store, or an industry, must be discontinued immediately. Any resistance will be treated with the harshest of repercussions! The Government official stops reading, puts down his paper, and turns to Butlion and smirks, You are a Jew, are you not?

Eli Butlion again swallows hard, keeping a calm demeanor, while inside, he feels irate, but manages to remain stalwart.

The question is asked again, "You are a Jew are you not?"

Eli Butlion nods.

Then I suggest you hear what the Fuehrer has said about you parasites. We have no place for your business in this new wonderful Vaderland. We are here to purge ourselves of all the warts, all the stains, and all the impurities. Your entire store is now in the hands of the military attaché, who will be arriving in Koblenz in five days. You are to ensure that you give them all they need. They are all to be treated with the utmost respect and dignity. I am here to advise you that your business is now no longer yours, but, it is now owned and controlled, from this moment on, by the German government.

The short, stocky gentleman stands up, slams the document on the desk in front of Eli. I shall warn you now, you must be ready! As he is turning to exit the little office, he says in a sarcastic tone, Good day!

The government official briskly walks out of the office into the store, passes Abe and George without giving them a glance. Puzzled, the two boys both guess that this was not a welcomed visit. They hurry to the office, and as they enter they find their father sitting crouched over the desk. Abe asks, Father, what did that man have to say?

The old man, with despair written all over his face, speaks in a soft, but broken voice, Leo was right. The military is now on their westward march. I have just been told that the entire business that your mother and I have built over the past forty years has been commandeered by the German forces. My sons, we have lost everything. In five days they are coming to confiscate our business, everything.

But Father, how can this be? asks Abe. We will not give them anything! They will have to at least give us something for it.

Eli says, You don’t understand, son. We are Jews. They do not want us here. All they want is what your mother and I have worked and sacrificed for in our entire lifetime. They want what is ours, and believe me, they will take it, no matter what we do or say.

George speaks up, We can’t let them! Quickly, let us call a meeting at the synagogue. We will notify as many people as we can about what has just happened. We cannot give all this up without a fight!

Eli looks at both his sons and says, Boys, it is useless to even think that we can oppose the military might of Hitler’s defense force. We are not even a stumbling block to them.

The sons now realize what has happened. The words that their father has just spoken are now a reality to the boys.

But Father, we can’t just let them take away everything you and mother struggled so long to build.

Yes, they can, and as I said, they will! And soon.

But will they do this to every business?

I don’t think so, son.

Then why will they do it to ours?

The old man looks at his sons, Ah, it is that way because we are Jews. We are not those Aryans, natives of Germany. Not only will they take it away, but they will take it away with great delight. We have no choice in the matter now. This is definitely the evil undertakings of a maniacal person. God be with us!

Abe looks at George and says, Father is right. I curse the day I was born a Jew. Why could we not be like anyone else? Why are we those people who have to suffer like this, Father? What have we done to them?

The words pierce the heart of the old man. In an attempt to raise their spirits, Eli says, We did not choose to be Jews. My sons, we did not choose our race. It was God, He’s the One Who chose us. How dare we ever question His divine choice! Count it as a privilege to be chosen a Jew. We will survive this suffering, too, the way we always have. We must, and will, stay strong."

Father, that’s nothing but philosophy, replies George very curtly, interrupting his father’s speech. How is that going to help us now? You’re losing everything you’ve ever had. Where will we go?

Eli replies, Our God has never let us down. He won’t this time either.

That same afternoon, Leo rushes home as fast as his legs can carry him from the university. Word has begun to filter around campus that government officials are also warning other local businesses of the impending takeover of their businesses.

He runs into the store, finding no customers, which pleases him. Father, the news I have heard on campus is that local businesses are being told that they will be taken over by the government.

Eli answers Leo, Let’s go into the office, I have something to tell you.

The old man walks into his office and sits down. Before Leo can say anything the old man raises his hand and says, Leo, you have been right all along, son. We were paid a visit today by one of Hitler’s henchman. Regrettably, I must admit, you were right.

Leo hears the pain in his father’s voice as he is speaking. He clinches his fists as he leans towards the old desk and places his fists firmly on it. He at first, looks down, and then slowly raises his head, and looks at his father, What was said, Father?

Eli explains to Leo what the government official said to him. Leo, in five days the German army will take over our business. They will take over local businesses, including ours. Eli picks up the declaration and hands it to Leo and says, Here is the document the government official read to me before he left. It is signed by Adolf Hitler.

Leo quickly reads the contents. His worst fears are detailed in every sentence. Hitler’s hatred for Jews is now demonstrated in written form, and is being applied by his ruthless regime. Father, the synagogue, says Leo. We need to counsel with the elders.

I agree. Call your brothers to the office. I will tell your mother to accompany us to the synagogue immediately. There are, no doubt, other businesses who are as concerned as we are. Eli walks around the desk, out of the office, and starts up the stairs. Leo walks out of the office onto the shop floor, calling for Abe and George to join their father and mother in the office.

On arrival at the synagogue, the Butlions are greeted by a host of members who have gathered to get guidance on their future actions. The Rabbi’s words are not philosophical, nor religious. He speaks practical sense that, for some members, is a viable option, while, to others, who are expecting a miracle, are disappointed. Our only hope of surviving this military takeover is to bring together as much as we can, and relocate to a safe place. Our priorities must be clearly outlined. The elderly members must be cared for first. Our infants and sickly members will be next. The wisdom in his methods is quickly discerned by most members.

But, Rabbi, calls out one of the men in the congregation, Where can we go?

Numerous voices began to speak as the men start to find solutions to their relocation. The Rabbi hears a few men begin to argue, and others raise their voices to make sure they are heard. Order has to be quickly restored, and the Rabbi calls out above their voices, Brethren, please! It is far better for us to put our heads together than to bang them together! We need to remain calm and discuss this rationally. It is more his Rabbinical authority, than his strong voice that causes the men to respectfully calm down. Thank you. Now, I propose we select a group that can guide us in making the right decisions. I ask that the rest of us abide by our decisions and implement them as promptly as possible.

The congregation has no issue in agreeing to the selected committee of men who are well acquainted with possible relocation sites. While they adjourn to the Rabbi’s office, the congregation is told to return to their homes. They will be soon contacted about the relocation sites.

Four days later, the sounds of tanks, marching boots upon cobbled streets, the barking orders of disciplined military men, echo down the small side streets of Koblenz. Thousands of soldiers are marching in. Camps are being set up outside the city’s main highway entrances. Tents are being raised, toilet facilities are being erected, and truckloads of armaments are being moved in.

The change in the attitude of Koblenz citizens ranges from delight to disgust. There are those who cheer and wave as the army marches through the city streets. Then, on the other hand, there are others who are disappointed and hurt, knowing that their beautiful city on the Rhine River is about to become an outpost of war. The entire city is torn asunder as military generals and high-ranking officers are taking over those special places that were once embraced by everyone as great German culture. Now this military machine all clad in the same uniform, all looking the same, all with the same determination to conquer the enemy, arrive and claim the wonderful colorful expression of nature and individuals. The brightly colored tulips and the green lawns of the gardens, mean nothing to the new invaders. Brown colored tanks, trucks, and transport vehicles fill the streets, often riding roughshod over city greenery with the purpose of reaching their destination faster than normal. Military officials now direct the traffic. Trams are being empowered by the military, and are brimming with soldiers carrying guns. All these things are beginning to aggravate many of the city’s inhabitants.

It takes a day and a half for the three thousand foot soldiers, one hundred and fifty trucks, twenty-six panzers, and sixty-five high-ranking German officials to finally gain control of the city. People are ordered out of their homes. Offices and businesses come to a grinding halt. Enlistment posts are set up, and many men, who have not yet joined the military, are pressured to sign up and begin their training as soldiers of Hitler’s mighty armies.

Eli and Rachel, late that night, are lying in bed. Fear has gripped the entire household. Rachel is reduced to tears twenty-four hours a day as she thinks of the misery that lies ahead of them. Eli is trying his best to overcome his depressed state of mind. Common sense tells him there must be something else he can do before everything is taken away from them. He has heard of the atrocities that are being afflicted on the Jewish people. The fact that all this is happening to them because they are Jews is hard for him to bear.

Early the next morning, while it is still dark, they hear the marching of soldiers through the city. The pounding of boots on the cobbled street, the rough command of the officer in charge, is enough to intimidate anyone, let alone, Jews. Leo and his two brothers are awakened by all the noise, and then they hear a loud official command, Halt!

Leo gets out of bed and moves to the window overlooking the street. He slides the curtain over a little to see what is happening in the street below. He observes a distinguished high ranking officer approaching the front door of Kolnicks, but he soon disappears under the store awning. He then sees the soldiers breaking rank and running towards the entrance also.

By now the entire household is fully awake. Eli is followed closely by the two older boys, while Leo lags behind. He looks up and sees his mother starting down the stairs. Leo says, Mother, please stay upstairs. You don’t need to come down here! He then follows the rest of the family down the stairs. Apprehension strains all their faces. Is this what they have been waiting for?

Eli leaves the stairs and walks towards the front door. Through the glass of the door, he sees the silhouette of a sharply uniformed figure of a SS captain defiantly waiting.

Flanked at this point by his three sons, Eli approaches and slowly begins to open the door. As Eli is unlocking the door, the officer blatantly pushes open the door and brazenly asks the question, Are you the owner of this business?

Eli looks the officer in the eyes, and says convincingly, Yes, I am the owner.

We are here to take this shop under our command. This is to be our distribution center from where we will be issuing uniforms to our soldiers. You are to pack up everything that is of any importance to you, and be out of here by midday. Is this understood?

The old man tries to make some reason out of what is being told him, but, before he can say anything, Abe turns to the officer and says, We have tried to get our things together. But, we still need more time. Go down to the rail sheds? There are some empty warehouses there that you can use.

The statement is cold and intolerable to the captain. His face now shows a stern angry look and he replies firmly, We will take over whatever we wish! You are of no importance anymore. This country is in a state of war, and every person in Germany will support our cause. Don’t think you can involve yourselves in our decisions. By order of the Fuehrer, I am commanding you to surrender this property now! Once more, you will be out by midday. This is final!

Eli asks the captain, Where will we go? This is our home.

This is not of our concern. Do you not have other members of your family living somewhere in Koblenz? If not, find some friends and move in with them. We will need your upstairs living quarters for our officers. These premises are to be vacated.

Anger and hatred is welling up inside the four Butlion men. The three sons look at each other, and then at their father. There is nothing left to say. There is no argument or point of view. He is instructed by the Captain of the SS and there is nothing left other than to turn to his children and say, I’m sorry my sons, but we need to do as we are told. We have no choice.

But Father, replies the oldest son. We can’t let our whole livelihood be taken from us just like that. What right have they? What have we done to be cast out like pigs?

While Abe is still talking, a desperate George pushes his way past the troubled old man, furious at what has just taken place. He pushes his way past Leo, and points his finger in the officer’s face, challenging him, saying, You dare not do this to us. We are law-abiding German citizens, and we have never transgressed any law in this country. We always pay our taxes and have always been honorable citizens. Now, leave us alone, and we will continue to be law-abiding citizens. Go, find someone else who has transgressed the law, and do to them what you want to do to us.

All of a sudden, with great surprise, the SS Captain slams his fist into George’s face. George hits the ground with such force that he bangs his head on the side of the step. Blood begins to trickle from his mouth and nose. Immediately after the SS officer strikes the Butlion son, the soldiers point their rifles at him, and prepare to kill him instantly.

The officer raises his right hand, stopping the action and turns to the old man and says, You had better think twice before you disobey the German SS. I’m telling you again. You have only a few hours. By midday you must be gone.

That is too much for Abe. He lunges forward, throwing his whole weight into the SS Captain’s chest. Their momentum carries them over a counter and they hit the ground hard. At that instant the SS officer kicks forward and swings his right arm into Abe’s face. The officer’s fitness and combat training quickly overpowers Abe. The SS officer immediately draws his Luger pistol, shooting the young man in the chest twice.

George, still in a daze, gets up off the floor and tries to get to his dying brother’s aid. As he continues forward to help him, the SS officer mistakes this as being another attack on him. He points the Luger at young George Butlion, and with the barrel only an inch from his head, pulls the trigger, killing him instantly. The two dead bodies lay close to each other on the floor. The officer immediately points the gun at Leo. And now… he says.

Eli and Leo flush with shock and emotion. They have just witnessed the murder of two of their beloved family members. Leo looks at his father and sees his total dissipation. He puts his arm around Eli’s shoulders and holds him close to him. In a soft voice, he says, It’s no good, Father. Let them have their way. At least, we have each other.

By now the old man is quivering from this horrific ordeal. He leans heavily on Leo as tears stream down his cheeks.

Hearing the gunshots, Rachel opens the door and quickly descends the stairs to see what has happened.

What has happened here? she asked. With that she sees behind the counter, her two sons lying side by side in a pool of blood on the shop floor. She gasps with fear and runs forward, kneeling over them. She cradles one son in one arm, and tries to reach for the second one.

Eli walks over to his wife and kneels alongside her. He pulls her towards him, and lovingly embraces her. Both are totally grief stricken. This is too much for the two of them to bear, and they break down, passionately sobbing.

Leo steadies himself, as he struggles to control his mixed emotions. With much anger, he turns to the German SS captain and boldly addresses him, Will you please leave now.

The captain offers a sly grin, as he returns his Luger to his holster. He then turns to the soldiers, giving them instructions to start clearing away the new clothing that is on display in Kolnicks Mens Department.

CHAPTER 3

T HE BUTLIONS’ STORE is not the only business that has been affected. All Jewish businesses located in the Jewish quarter are being taken over by the Nazis. The news regarding the murder of the two Butlion sons has spread quickly, and by seven o’clock that morning, a number of families have been communicating with each other. However, the only deaths so far are those of the two older Butlion boys. This horrific turn of events has angered the entire Jewish community.

By working together, the process of gathering their belongings is greatly accelerated. A shopkeeper in the Jewish quarter, who has a warehouse on the outskirts of the city, is offering it as one of the relocation sites. Scaffolding is being taken from various stores, and loaded into wagons that will take them down to the warehouse. This will be used for makeshift living quarters in the warehouse. Since there are only a few toilet facilities in the warehouse, the men build separate bath and shower facilities.

Meanwhile, in the living quarters above Kolnicks Store, Rachel Butlion is putting together some of her more precious jewelry, and a few photos of her parents and children when they were younger.

As she tries to fit all of these into one of her handbags, Eli walks in. He observes what she is doing, and compassionately says to her, Oh, my dear wife, there will be no place to keep these. Why don’t you give them to me, and I will take them down into the backyard and bury them. Hopefully, they will be safe there. I can guarantee you if we take them with us, they will not be around for long. Those evil SS troops will confiscate them.

As he reaches for them, she possessively clutches them in her shaking hands. She grudgingly pulls her hand back as he tries to pry them away. The thought that she might not see them again breaks her heart, and she unwillingly releases her grip, allowing the old man to gently take them from her. It is as if a part of her life is being taken from her. She watches sadly as her husband turns and walks towards the stairs that lead down to the backyard.

He quickly makes his way down the stairs and out the back door. He searches to find a place under the foundation of the outbuilding where he can dig a hole.

In the meantime, Leo is desperately gathering as many blankets and pillows together. He gathers some pots and pans, as well, throwing them into the blankets. He hurries down the stairs with the pots and pans clattering out from underneath the blanket rolling down ahead of him. He mutters to himself as he frustratingly picks them up and folds them back into the blankets and makes his way out the front door. He loads them into a wagon that has been drawn around by a neighbor. Together they try to stack as much as possible into the small space. The neighbor now begins to wheel the cart away as Leo decides to check on his parents.

As Eli is busy digging a hole for Rachel’s’ precious articles, Leo walks up to him and asks, Father, why are you digging this hole?

Your mother has put these precious articles aside. We have decided that the best thing to do is to bury them. Otherwise, the Germans will eventually confiscate them. It’s good that you are seeing me doing this. If your mother and I don’t survive, later on, you will know where this is buried.

Father, it saddens me greatly. However, I do understand.

As Leo leaves to gather more supplies, Eli continues to dig the hole under the shed. As he digs, it is almost as if he is digging a grave. He digs down about four feet and stops. It is with a heavy heart that he reaches for the handbag. He opens it and pulls out a pearl necklace, the last piece of jewelry he bought Rachel. Tears well up in his eyes as he realizes he may never see it again. He now places the necklace back into the handbag, and gently places it into the hole. He finds a few old bricks and puts them on top of the handbag. He then fills in the hole. Once it is filled, he covers it with a loose board that is lying close by. He now goes upstairs to share with Rachel the location of her memorable valuables.

By now the entire Jewish community of Koblenz is well aware of Hitler’s diabolical attitude towards the Jews. It is now fast becoming the conversation piece in the city. Everyone knows of his distaste for the success of the Jews, and that his plans are to annihilate them in order to secure a pure Aryan race. The mere fact that he is instructing the Wehrmacht to confiscate all Jewish businesses is a blatant expression of his plan to get rid of every Jew.

Leo walks around the shop floor that is now empty of most of the clothing. He goes upstairs and finds his father and mother in their bedroom putting on the heavy coats. Leo looks down and notices the heeled shoes his mother has on. Mother, I don’t think those shoes will be comfortable. I suggest you rather wear a flat heeled shoe.

You are probably right, my son. I will change them. She makes her way to the closet and puts on a flat pair of shoes. For the last time, they take one look at their living quarters, and descend the stairs into the store.

The family is ready to leave. They are standing in the store looking over it for the last time. Suddenly, the door swings open, and in stomps the same SS Captain from before, into the empty store with three other soldiers. Upon seeing that the family is still there, he glances at his wristwatch and says, Ah hah, you are still here! Good! Listen carefully. I now have instructions from the Fuehrer that all Jews are to be relocated. Now you must come with me! With that he yells an instruction to the three soldiers to escort them out of Kolnicks.

Startled by this command from the captain, the family looks at each other, bewildered by this change of attitude.

Leo asks the captain, Why are we been escorted out? Then suddenly, he feels the butt of a rifle smash between his shoulder blades, shoving him forward as the pain streaks up and down his spine. He turns to take his mother’s hand, only to have it slapped down by the captain.

Move you stupid Jew! Get out of this place! It no longer belongs to you. Come along old man, we haven’t got all day.

The three family members are ushered out into the street by the soldiers only to find waiting in the street at least another fifteen Jews who have also been huddled together like sheep to be taken to the slaughter. By this time Mrs. Butlion is emotionally distraught and she tries desperately to cling to her husband’s arm. Tears begin to flow down her cheeks as she nervously says to him, What will they do with us now? Where are they taking us?

Old man Butlion tries to control himself and says, Quiet, my dear. Let us just see what happens. Just remember we are still together. That is important.

Now the soldiers herd them down the street towards the waiting trucks.

Rachel turns to beckon for Leo, who is lagging behind them in the crowd, to join them. While he tries to hurry towards them, he again is shoved aside by another soldier who shouts, All the young people go to the truck on my right and all you older people to the one on the left.

As they separate, Leo calls out to his father and mother, I’ll be with you shortly, just hold on.

It’s all right son, just do what they tell you. It is best for all of us. Let’s just follow their instructions, is his father’s distressed reply.

About twenty-five yards ahead of them, on the corner of Cornelius Strasse and Marselle Strasse, trucks are parked with drivers impatiently waiting for them to climb aboard. By now there are close to seventy Jewish citizens approaching the trucks from all the adjoining streets. Again they have to endure the barking commands of another SS officer. Everyone over the age of fifty board the trucks on the left. Everyone under the age of fifty board the trucks on the right! Schnell, schnell!

Leo tries to force his way to his mother and father when a SS Lieutenant grabs him. And what age are you? You don’t look fifty to me.

Leo pulls himself free and says, That’s my mother and father. I don’t want to leave them.

You’ll do as I say, you wretched Jew! He slaps him across the face causing his hat to fly off his head, and Leo falls into the gutter. Get into that truck, or this will be the last few steps you’ll ever take! At that moment the Lieutenant pulls the Luger from his pouch and points it directly between Leo’s eyes. Leo looks stunned, as he smells the oil from the barrel of the Luger. Get up, get into the truck!

Leo quietly gets up off the street, and brushes the dirt off his clothes. He then turns towards the truck across the road and sees his father helping his mother climb into the bed of the truck. Shocked and horrified, he now, for the first time in his life, feels a total loss of dignity and respect. He realizes he will have no say in his life from this moment on. He is now in the hands of the Nazis.

CHAPTER 4

T HE DESTRUCTION OF the people’s lifestyle is instantaneous, and without consideration for civilian life. The onslaught of war is bombarded into the lives of every inhabitant. People are chased from off the roads as motorcycles and military vehicles race through the streets. Now every action is the result of a barking command from an officer. The people run from the approaching force that ignites fear in their hearts. The trucks drive through the city streets towards the Koblenz train station. The station has now been converted into a military depot.

To Leo’s surprise, he now finds several dozen rail cars parked along the railroad loading platforms that were once graced with first class coaches. This beautiful train station has now become no more than a cattle yard. Soldiers are busy herding the people, separating them into different age groups. Attention! All women under the age of twenty are to go to the rail cars at the northern end of the platform! Women between the ages of twenty and fifty are to go to the southern end of the platform!

The burly officer then shouts another command to the older people, Everyone over the age of fifty will be directed to the rail cars in the middle of the platform! Soldiers move amongst the people chasing the women to their respective sides of the platform, and pushing the older men and women to the middle of the platform.

The men under the age of fifty are separated from the rest of the prisoners, and forced to walk to