Collier's
THE NATIONAL WEEKLY

THE CROWELL-COLLIER PUBLISHING COMPANY
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THE EDITORS

L3082

1

Karl Hetzner closed his eyes and felt the ground vibrate.

The tanks crossed the town square, turned around the ancient
fountain and stopped in front of the tower which guarded the entrance to
the old, walled city. A wooden tank-obstacle barred the way.

Karl Hetzner stood by the window and saw the lines of tanks and
the trucks of infantry.

A bulldozer came up and cleared away the obstacle.

The man stood at the window, tall, erect and dignified. His face
was brown with the wind and sun. The man showed no emotion. He looked at
the town square. Then he slowly passed his hand over his eyes, as though
to wipe away a memory.

"Are you happy, Karl?" the wife asked.

"Happy and ashamed."

"Why ashamed?"

"Because we could not save ourselves, because people had to come
from 3000 miles and deliver us."

Across the square a man came running towards the troops with a
bottle of wine.

"Welcome to the liberators," he cried.

A soldier took the bottle, passed it around and threw it empty
on the pavement.

Karl Hetzner gave a bitter laugh:

-1-

Karl Ritter gave a bitter laugh:

on the pavement.

A soldier took the bottle, poured it around and threw it empty
"Welcome to the inferno!" he cried.

bottle of wine.

Turn off the square a man came running towards the house with a
from 3000 miles and delivered no.

"Because we could not save ourselves, because he could not
"By himself?"

"Happy and satisfied."

to write away a memory.

The man stood at the window, tall, straight and dignified. His face
was from the wind and so. The man showed no emotion. He looked at
the town square. Then he slowly passed his hand over his eyes, as though
the town square was from the wind and so.

The trunks of inertia.

Karl Ritter stood by the window and saw the lines of tanks and
the old, walled city. A wooden tank-odyssey parried the way.

Cranes and stopped in front of the tower which launched the entrance to
the square crossed the town square, turned around the moment
Karl Ritter closed his eyes and left the ground ajar.

1

- 1 -

- 2 -

"Here it starts again," he said.

The bulldozer returned.

The tanks began to move. The trucks followed.

The square was empty. The water in the fountain reflected the sunlight. The man with the wine bottle seemed incongruous against the quiet and the emptiness of the town.

Babette and Karl Heinzner were silent for a long time. Finally the woman said simply:

"We are free now, Karl. Our friends are here."

2

To the American army Birkstadt was a town of 20 000 inhabitants at the junction of two secondary roads. It possessed no industries. The Germans had not fought for it. The U.S. Army was engaged in pursuing the enemy. It could not spare troops for garrison duty yet. So they pushed an armored spearhead through Birkstadt, posted proclamations that began: "We come as conquerors and not as oppressors" and left.

To its inhabitants, Birkstadt was a beautiful little town in a valley, by a river. One could walk for hours through the woods that stretched on every side of Birkstadt, or climb the hills and look at Birkstadt in the sunlight. One saw the towers of the old city then and the moat, that spoke of other battles and other crises. At dusk a trumpeter played sentimental folk-songs from one of the ancient towers.

- 2 -

People felt strangely at ease then, because they knew that throughout the valley the trumpeterx could be heard. They felt strangely happy and peaceful, for they knew they were not alone.

There was no trumpet-playing in Birkstadt tonight.

The American army had swept through Birkstadt and had left a vacuum behind. The people felt bitter, cynical and forsaken. Having been taught that only success determined Right, the population abandoned values that had been considered above question for twelve years, for no other reason than the military failure of their proponents. For twelve years their thinking had been taken care of for the people. And now in their hour of crisis, they had nothing left to fall back on. The citizen of Birkstadt were literally empty of conviction. Everything had been in vain, all the suffering, all the dead, all the hopes, all the beliefs. So the only thing left to do was to wait for the conquerors and see what one was to believe now.

Strangely nobody was questioning the right of the conquerors to prescribe these beliefs. No hotheaded nationalist jumped to the barricades. No fanatics organized resistance against the foreign invader. For twelve years force had been proclaimed as the final arbiter. The Americans had established their virility and thereby their right to govern by the mere fact of being here.

Force, being the only reality in human relations, the people of Birkstadt were preparing themselves for the new reality which was the U.S. Army.

VIRG.

Birkedtstet were brotaring themselves for the new reality which was the U.S.
force, being the only reality in human relations, the people of
fact of being here.

established their validity and thereby their right to govern by the core
years force had been proclaimed as the final arbiter. The Americans had
no influence organized resistance against the foreign invader, for twelve
months these defile. No hotbeded nationalist jumped to the conclusions.
Strangely nobody was questioning the right of the conqueror to
use to believe now.

only thinking left to do was to wait for the conquerors and see what one
all the suffering, all the dead, all the dead, all the defile. So the
Birkedtstet were literally empty of conviction. Everything had been in vain,
now of course, they had nothing left to tell pack on. The citizen of
their thinking had been taken care of for the people. And now in their
reason than the military failure of their proponents. For twelve years
that had been considered above question for twelve years, for no other
taught that only success determined right, the population abandoned any
accuse pending. The people felt bitter, cynical and ter Horren. Having been
The American army had swept through Birkedtstet and had left a

There was no trumpet-blowing in Birkedtstet thought.

Alley the trumpeter could be heard. They felt strangely happy and peaceful,
people felt strangely at ease then, because they knew that throughout the

- 3 -

- 4 -

Wilhelm Habelt had been Company Commander in the Home-Guard. Two days before he had told his charges that the holy soil of Germany had to be defended to the last man. He had distributed anti-tank grenades and had sworn to die at the head of his troops.

But when the American forces entered, he had run out on the town-square with a bottle of wine and shouted: "Welcome to the liberators."

Dr. Sauer was the richest man in town. Before 1933 he had been a member of the German democratic parliament. In 1933 he had donated his year's salary to charity in gratitude for the "assumption of power" by the Nazis. In 1937, he had been received by Hitler. In 1939, he had left the Catholic Church. In 1941 Dr. Sauer's factory had received a decoration for war-work. But to-day all employees of the factory were gathered and Dr. Sauer made a speech: "Democracy is the noblest expression of human government."

If anybody had asked him why, he could have given no better reason than that the American troops had looked well-equipped and the American tanks permanent.

"What do you think will happen now, Karl?", the woman asked.

The man spoke with the assurance of someone who, having mastered the past, can not be afraid of the future.

"I have no idea. I only know that the radio stated that it was a war against the Nazis and not against the people."

The woman was uneasy. Wars, with their negation of everything

- 4 -

- 5 -

maternal, with their destruction of all protectiveness, always make women
pessimists.

"I hope you are right."

"But of course. What other reason would the Allies have for fighting.
They have nothing material to gain here."

"One never knows. War brings out so many base traits."

"Listen, Babette. For twelve years we had confidence, why should
we lose it now, that the worst is over?"

"What do you think will happen?" the woman repeated.

"You know, it is a funny thing. The Nazis have been in power so
long, that one can not really imagine what world without them will look
like. All I know is that there is a tremendous amount of reconstruction
to be done, both material and spiritual."

"Will you help?"

"With all my strength."

There was a pause. After a while the woman said reflectively:

"You know, it was insane of Hitler to attack the three greatest
powers on earth. How could he possibly expect to win?"

The man was earnest.

"I do not agree with you. I prefer to think that Hitler would have
collapsed no matter what happened. I like to believe that somewhere the
dignity of the individual would have asserted itself, that there are certain
things that can by their very nature not last, because they violate
fundamental concepts of human relations. Just imagine how terrible life

- 5 -

- 2 -

fundamental concepts of human relations. that imagine how terrible life
things that can by their very nature not last, because they violate
dignity of the individual would have asserted itself, that there are some
conflict no matter what happened. I like to believe that somewhere the
"I do not agree with you. I prefer to think that Hitler would have
The man was earnest.

b罩e on early. How could he basely expect to win?

"You know, it was true one of Hitler to attack the three greatest
There was a base. After a while the woman said reflectively:
"With all my strength."

"Will you help?"

"If I know, it is that there is a fremdenbeine amount of reconstruction
I think, that one can not really imagine what world without them will look
"You know, it is a funny thing. The base have been in power so
"What do you think will happen?" the woman replied.

"I lieuten, Repette. For twelve times we had confidence, why should
"One never knows. But prings out so many base traits."

They gave nothing material to gain here."

"But of course. What other reason would the Vilitze gave for fighting.
"I hope you are right."

beseeches.

material, with their destruction of all protectiveness, always make women

- 2 -

would be, if only success determined the righteousness of a cause. No,
Hitler would have failed no matter what he did."

Thus spoke Karl Hetzner who was an anti-Nazi because he believed
in the inherent value of the individual.

"Democracy gives vent to the finest traits in the German character"
said Joachim Boeck. He was school-teacher in Birkastadt and with that
phrase he merely repeated his favorite slogan of 1932.

After 1933 Joachim Boeck had changed his mind. It had seemed to
him then that the "leadership principle" embodied all that was fine in
the German soul. He had been passionate in instilling that belief among
his students. Once he had punished a student who had not given the Hitler-
salute properly, by making him stand on the ledge of a chair under a
doorframe with outstretched hands and bent back until the boy collapsed.

The day Hitler declared war on the U.S., Joachim Boeck had
assembled all the students and had proclaimed: "Never before has Hitler
been closer to my heart than now."

"It is lucky I never joined the Nazi party," Joachim Boeck said.

His wife did not answer. It seemed to her that membership in a
party was a matter of conviction, not of luck.

"I will go to the Americans and volunteer my services," Joachim
Boeck insisted.

Frau Boeck continued knitting.

-7-

3

The American army came to a stay several days later. It arrived with roaring trucks that assembled on the town square and little jeeps that darted about, attempting to find billets for the troops. No plan seemed to govern this operation. The largest houses in all sections of the town were affected, their inhabitants evacuated.

A young officer noticed Karl Hetzner's house. He liked its cleanliness and its strategic position on the town square.

Karl Hetzner was given half an hour to move. When he protested: "But I am your friend," the young officer laughed and replied:

"You are no friend of mine. To me a Kraut is a Kraut."

Major Brown was the Military Governor of Birketadt. He believed that the problem of occupation in Germany was primarily a question of economics.

"Happy people do not fight," he used to say.

The main objective, as Major Brown saw it, was to get conditions back to normal as quickly as possible, re-establish Civil Government, revive industry and commerce, with a minimum of friction and with an eye to maximum efficiency. Everything else would settle itself automatically.

Among the first Germans to present themselves to Major Brown were Joachim Boeck and Dr. Sauer. They expressed gratification at the destruction of the criminal element inside Germany and offered their co-operation in the restoration of a truly democratic government.

-7-

co-operation in the reformation of a truth democratic government.
democratisation of the criminal element inside Germany and offered their
were to beachcombers and Dr. Bauer. They expressed great satisfaction at the
Wong the King of Germany to present themselves to Major Brown
to maximum efficiency. Everything else would settle itself automatically.
revive industry and commerce, with a minimum of friction and with an eye
back so normal as quickly as possible, re-adapting Civil Government.

The main objective, as Major Brown saw it, was to get conditions
"healthy people do not fight," he said to ask.

economics.

Major Brown was the Military Governor of Berlin. He believed

"You are no friend of mine. To me a Krant is a Krant."

Karl Heinzner was given half an hour to move. When he protected
elegance and its strategic position on the town square.

A young officer noticed Karl Heinzner's house. He liked it
the town were appointed, their inhabitants envied.

ascent to Government this operation. The largest house in all sections of
that dated about 1800, attempting to find pilasters for the fioors. He also
with rearering trucks that assembled on the town square and little trucks

The American army came to a stay several days later. If arrived

- 1 -

As a reward Joachim Boeck and Dr. Sauer received signs stating
that no American troops were to be billeted in their houses.

4

Sometimes Karl Hetzner went to his house to ask permission to
remove a few essentials. One day the young officer who had requisitioned
the house was waiting for him.

"So you are our friend," he began.

"I have waited for twelve years," Karl Hetzner replied.

"I suppose you did not like Hitler?"

This is funny, Karl Hetzner thought. Or it would have been funny
ten years ago. Somehow there have been too many dead now to appreciate the
humor. But he said:

"No, I did not like Hitler."

"I suppose you do not know this picture?"

"Yes, this is a picture of Hitler."

"Do you recognize this particular picture?"

"No, where does it come from?"

"Listen, Fritz, I am asking the questions here. I suppose you did
not hide this in your basement?"

"In my basement?"

"Under some wood near the window?"

"But this is a joke."

"Listen, Fritz, you should go on the stage. If I didn't know you

- 8 -

- 8 -

"Flaten, Britta, you should go on the stage. If I didn't know you
"But this is a joke."

"In my basement?"

not give this in your basement?"

"Flaten, Britta, I am asking the questions here. I assume you did
"No, where does it come from?"

"Do you recognise this berrier's picture?"

"I assume you do not know this picture?"

"No, I did not like Hitler."

umor. But he said:

ten years ago. Somewhere there have been too many dead now to appreciate the
This is funny, Karl Hetsner thought. Or it would have been funny
"I assume you did not like Hitler?"

"I have waited for twelve years," Karl Hetsner replied.

"So you are our friends," he began.

the phone was waiting for him.

remove a few essentials. One day the young officer who had requisitioned
Sometimes Karl Hetsner went to the house to ask permission to

4

that no American troops were to be piloted in their houses.

As a reward for doing work and Mr. Sauer received signs stating

- 8 -

CD

-9-

I would almost believe you. I suppose you were not a Nazi either?

The man's face hardened:

"No, I was not."

"You Krauts make me sick. Nobody was a Nazi. Nobody liked Hitler. Take that picture of your leader and get out before I throw up."

... "There is among us to-night a man who failed to keep in step with the will of the people and the mission of Germany, a defeatist, a weakling . . . ", the orator proclaimed. Karl Hetzner rose and left the room.

"Why don't you become one of us?" Wilhelm Habelt said, "You can get your position back. You do not want to be an outsider all your life."

"I would rather be an outsider than lose my self-respect."

You do not want to be one of us, eh. You wait till your 'liberators' come, they will make you one of us." ...

The thought of Wilhelm Habelt brought Karl Hetzner up short. He knew now where he had seen that picture.

The portrait stared at him out of a broken frame.

"Take that picture," the officer repeated, "and don't come back."

Karl Hetzner picked the faded painting up. When he was outside, he began to run. He did not stop until he had reached the woods that overlooked the city.

-9-

the city.

Karl Hetsner barked the letter bearing his. When he was outside, he
came to know. He did not stop until he had reached the woods that overlooked
"Take that picture," the officer repeated, "and don't come back."
The portrait appeared at him out of a broken frame.

The thought of Wilhelm Repelt brought Karl Hetsner in front. He
"Inoperatores" come, they will make you one of us." ...

You do not want to be one of us, eh. You want till your
"I would rather be an outsider than lose my self-reliance."

"You can get your position back. You do not want to be an outsider
"Why don't you become one of us?" Wilhelm Repelt said,

rose and left the room.

defeatist, a weeping ... 
" ... the orator proclaimed. Karl Hetsner
in step with the will of the people and the mission of Germany, a
... "There is among us to-night a man who failed to keep

Take that picture of your leader and get out before I throw in."

"You Kruste make me sick. Kruste was a Nazi. Kruste liked Hitler.
"No, I was not."

The man's face hardened:

I would almost believe you. I assume you were not a Nazi either?

- 6 -

(A)

- 6 -

Karl Hetzner looked at Birkstadt in the sunlight. How peaceful it
seems, he thought. You can not see the frustration, the misery and the
hopelessness of the years.

Suddenly he started to tremble violently.

"Wait till your 'liberators' come", he mocked, "they will make
you one of us."

Karl Hetzner dropped the picture where nobody could see him
and walked home.

5

Lieutenant Hassett was the Security Officer of Birkstadt. He
believed that the reconstruction of Germany was primarily a matter of
the spirit. He was impatient with the theory which maintained that
economic forces were the sole factor determining human relations. Such
statements made Lieutenant Hassett angry, because he had been in the war.

... Standing on a hill, overlooking a valley that appeared
out of a Christmas card, Lieutenant Hassett had come upon a dead soldier.
The body had been contorted, bloated and incongruous against the peace
and the gleaming whiteness of the valley.

Lieutenant Hassett had thought then, how merciful it was that
mothers received only formal notifications with no description of the

- 10 -

- 10 -

mothers received only formal notifications with no description of the
Lieutenant Hasseett had thought then, how merciful it was that
and the gleaming whiteness of the valley.

The body had been comforted, floated and incongruous against the peace
out of a Christmas card, Lieutenant Hasseett had come upon a dead soldier.
... Standing on a hill, overlooking a valley that abounded

statements made Lieutenant Hasseett angry, because he had been in the war.
economic forces were the sole factor determining human relations. Such
the spirit. He was impatient with the theory which maintained that
believed that the reconstruction of Germany was primarily a matter of
Lieutenant Hasseett was the Security Officer of Birkbeck. He

2

and walked home.

Karl Hetzner dropped the picture where nobody could see him
you one of us."

"Wait till your 'lhiperators' come," he mocked, "they will make
Suddenly he started to tremble violently.

pobelessness of the years.

seems, he thought. You can not see the transmission, the misery and the
Karl Hetzner looked at Birkbeck in the sunlight. How beautiful it

- 10 -

- 11 -

loneliness of their boys on gentle hills overlooking peaceful valleys.

And . . . how great the evil must be that asked for such sacrifice
in its expurgation. . . .

Lieutenant Hassett saw this evil in the fact that 60 million
people in the center of Europe had forgotten all objective conceptions
or right and wrong, of morality and immorality, of the dignity and the
value of the individual. To restore these fundamentals, Lieutenant
Hassett considered his principal task. To restore these fundamentals
seemed to Lieutenant Hassett the only justification for bringing millions
of men to strange lands to fight, to suffer and to die.

The population of Birkstadt frequently came into contact with
Lieutenant Hassett. They were required to obtain his approval before
being employed by Military Government. He had to clear their circulation
passes.

"What makes you think you are qualified to work for Military
Government", Lieutenant Hassett asked.

Dr. Sauer was suave.

"I was Democratic Deputy in Parliament until 1933".

"And then?"

"Then the parliament was dissolved."

"What year did you join the Nazi party?"

- 11 -

- 11 -

"And then?"

"I was Democratic Deputy in Parliament until 1933."

Dr. Bener was alive.

Government", Lieutenant Hasseett asked.

bases.

being employed by Military Government. He had to clear their circulation
Lieutenant Hasseett. They were required to obtain his approval before

The population of Birketabt frequently came into contact with

of men to arrange lands to light, toutter and to die.
seemed to Lieutenant Hasseett the only justification for pricking millions
Hasseett considered his principal task. To restore these fundamentals
value of the individual. To restore these fundamentals, Lieutenant
or right and wrong, of morality and immorality, of the dignity and the
beauty in the center of Europe had forgotten all objective conventions
Lieutenant Hasseett saw this evil in the fact that 60 million

in its expropriation. . . .

And . . . how great the evil must be that asked for such sacrifice
loneliness of their boys on суite hills overlooking beautiful valleys.

- 11 -

- 12 -

Strange question, Dr. Sauer thought. I can not see the connection.
But he answered.

"1935".

"Why?"

"Well, I was forced in."

"How can a man with your income be forced in?"

Dr. Sauer was deferential.

"But I really did not believe in the Nazi ideology, sir. I merely
joined to have peace and quiet."

Lieutenant Hassett leaned back in his chair and looked at Dr. Sauer
for several minutes.

"Strangely enough," he finally said, "I, too, do not believe that
you were a convinced Nazi. But we do not pay premiums for bad character."

Dr. Sauer was not approved for employment by Military Government.

"The Democracies have established their superiority over Germany,"
Joachim Boeck said.

"Why?" Lieutenant Hassett answered.

Joachim Boeck had not expected a reply.

"Because they won the war."

"And had they lost?"

"Well..., but, sir, look to what low state these Nazi criminals
brought Germany."

"And had they succeeded?"

- 12 -

- 15 -

"And had they succeeded?"

brought Germany."

"Well.... put, sir, look to what few state these East extramarital
"And had they lost?"

"Because they won the war."

Joacquin Boeck had not akcepted a reply.

"Why?" Lieutenant Hasseett answered.

Joacquin Boeck said.

"The Democrats have established their superiority over Germany."

Dr. Sauer was not abroved for employment by Military Government.
You were a convinced Nazi. But we do not say anything for bad character."

"Strongly enough," he tinsily said, "I, too, do not believe that
for several minutes.

Lieutenant Hasseett left in his chair and looked at Dr. Sauer
toed to have peace and quiet."

"But I really did not believe in the Nazi idea of us, sir. I merely
Dr. Sauer was determinist.

"Well, I was forced in."

"Why?"

"1922."

But he answered:

- 15 -

- 13 -

There was a pause. Lieutenant Hassett continued:

"I fully agree with you that we have established our superiority over Germany. But we attained it by representing better values, not by being stronger. We claim to rule by justice, not by strength."

One day a young war veteran asked for a circulation pass:

"I am not going to pretend," the war veteran said, "that I was not a Nazi. I was. I was young and have heard nothing else. I believed in Hitler because that is all I was ever taught. I have learned my lesson through suffering. I do not know what democracy is. But I am going to try and learn."

The war veteran received a circulation pass.

The citizen of Birkstadt spoke about Lieutenant Hassett and they repeated his words. They were ideas such as had not been expressed in Birkstadt for a long time. . . .

6

"People are the same, all over the world," Major Brown said.

He was thinking of Dr. Sauer and Joachim Boeck. He was impressed by their decency and good-will. Their concern for establishing democracy proved that the Nazi influence had not really been so deep in Germany.

- 13 -

- 13 -

proved that the Nazi influence had not really been so deep in Germany. By their decay and good-will. their concern for eternally democratising Germany He was thinking of Dr. Bauer and Tocqueville Boeck. He was impressed "People are the same, all over the world," Major Brown said.

8

Birkstadt for a long time. . . .
repeated his words. They were these and so had not been expressed in
The citizen of Birkstadt spoke about Lieutenant Hasseett and said

and learn.

"I am not going to pretend," the war veteran said, "that I was not through suffering. I do not know what democracy is. But I am going to try

"I am not going to pretend," the war veteran said, "that I was not
One day a young war veteran asked for a circulation pass:

over Germany. But we attained it by representing better causes, not by

"I fully agree with you that we have established our authority
There was a base. Lieutenant Hasseett continued:

- 13 -

- 14 -

Major Brown began to rely on the advice of Joachim Boeck and
Dr. Sauer.

"No sense shaking up the city administration. If a feeling of instability arises, democracy is endangered," Dr. Sauer said.

That sounded sensible to Major Brown and no shake-up of the
city administration took place.

"Let us not look backward and waste strength in recrimination. To face the future, to live normally, that is democracy," Joachim Boeck insisted.

Democracy to Major Brown meant a wheat-field in Missouri and the sun rising behind the prairie. Democracy meant hard work, to say what one wanted and to live as one pleased. Democracy to Major Brown represented above all people who meant what they said.

Major Brown reviewed his first four weeks in Birkstadt with satisfaction. The civil administration was running smoothly, the population remained docile. There had been some difficulty with the Security Officer, who had refused to approve Dr. Sauer. An arrangement would have to be made with Lieutenant Hassett. That man was too intense and lost himself in details.

Yet there was no cause for alarm.

To his headquarters Major Brown reported:

"With the assistance of reliable, anti-Nazi Germans, stability has been restored and civil government re-established." . . .

- 14 -

"With the selection of reliable, anti-Mustard Germany, stability
To the headquarters Major Brown reported:

Let there be no cause for alarm.

and lost himself in details.

would have to be made with Lieutenant Haslett. That man was too intense
Security Officer, who had refused to abrade Dr. Sener. An arrangement
population remained idle. There had been some difficulty with the
situation. The civil administration was running smoothly, the g
Major Brown reviewed his last four weeks in Bismarck with
represented above all people who meant what they said.

what one wanted and to live as one pleased. Democracy to Major Brown
the arm raising证明 the bratize. Democracy meant hard work, to say
Democracy to Major Brown meant a wheat-field in Missouri and
influenced.

To face the future, to live normally, that is democracy," Major Brown
"Let us not look backward and waste strength in recompensation
city administration took place.

That wounded sensibility to Major Brown and no shake-off of the
instability arises, democracy is endangered," Dr. Sener said.

"No sense shaking up the city administration. It is a feeling of
Dr. Sener.

Major Brown began to rely on the advice of Major Boeck and

- 14 -

- 15 -

7

"How do you like condition since liberation?" Joachim Boeck asked.

Karl Hetzner turned. His face was brown, his eyes dark. A strand of grey hair fell over a high forehead. Very gently, with infinite patience, such as one uses with a naughty child, Karl Hetzner answered:

"Tell me, Herr Boeck, just what have you been liberated from?"

"You are a clever man, Herr Hetzner."

"Not clever, Herr Boeck, merely honest. You see, I do not think one should ever kid oneself."

Herr Boeck regarded Karl Hetzner quizzically. For a moment it seemed he might become angry, but then he smiled politely:

"Herr Hetzner, you take too much credit for yourself. I admit you lost your job and your security. But did you not, after all, take the easy way out? We who lived with the Nazis and worked with them, in order to gain an influence over their policies, we had the harder job. We are the real sufferers of the Third Reich."

Karl Hetzner's face grew taut, but his voice was calm, gentle and patient:

"Why tell me, Herr Boeck? There is nothing I can do for you."

"But maybe there is something I can do for you."

"Indeed?"

"Maybe I could get you back into the city administration? . . . Why don't you become one of us? . . . Will you remain an outsider all your life, even now?"

- 15 -

- 12 -

Title, even now?

"Maybe I could get you back into the city administration? ... 
"Indeed?"

And patient:

Karl Hetzner's face grew tant, but his voice was calm, gentle
real emulators of the Third Reich."

Gain an influence over their policies, we had the harder job. We are the
way out? We who lived with theuts and worked with them, in order to
fool your top and your security. But did you not, after all, take the easy
"Herr Hetzner," you take too much credit for yourself. I admit you
seemed he might become angry, put then he smiledНОbily:

Herr Boeck regarded Karl Hetzner quizzically. For a moment it
one should ever kick oneself."

"Not clever, Herr Boeck, merely honest. You see, I do not think
"You are a clever man, Herr Hetzner."

"Tell me, Herr Boeck, that what gave you been liberated from?"
Such as one sees with a naughty child, Karl Hetzner answered:
"How do you like condition since liberation?" Toschin Boeck asked.

- 12 -

- 16 -

Karl Heinzner closed his eyes. There it was again. A story without end, a merry-go-round. Wherever you got on, you were bound to wind up seeing the same things. Very tiredly, very resignedly he said:

"I am sorry, Herr Boeck, but I do not sell my soul."

8

Life in Birkstadt in the interval between occupation and the armistice was a series of paradoxes. The radio proclaimed that the German people were collectively guilty and collectively punishable. Yet the Military Governor of Birkstadt spoke of economic reconstruction. The U.S. Army had a non-fraternization policy, which declared the Germans not fit company for American soldiers. Yet everybody in Birkstadt knew that this policy seemed only to apply to the male part of the population.

All this caused the few well-meaning persons, who had opposed the Nazis, been imprisoned and suffered, to ask themselves whether Hitler had not been right after all, at least when he stated that the war was against every German, not just the Nazis. Others merely nudged each other and noted that it was a queer army indeed, high-ranking officers of which openly violated basic policies.

Public notices repeatedly stated that U.S. policy was primarily concerned with the eradication of National-Socialism. Yet in Birkstadt

- 16 -

- 1c -

concerned with the expropriation of National-Socialism. Yet in Birkatadt
Public notice repeatedly stated that U. B. policy was primarily

officers of which obviously aloofed basic policyes.
each other and noted that it was a sheer army indeed, high-ranking
war was against every German, not just the Kaiser. Others merely hugged
Hitler had not been right after all, at least when he stated that the
the Kaiser, been intrusted and alluded, to ask themselves whether
All this caused the few well-meaningiberous, who had opposed
that this policy seemed only to abhoy to the whole part of the population,
not lit combat for American soldiers. Yet everybody in Birkatadt knew
U. B. Why had a non-traditional policy, which declared the Germanes
Military Governor of Birkatadt spoke of economic reconstruction. The
people were collectively snuffish and collectively bungable. Yet the
retaliation was a series of barpages. The radio proclaimed that the Germanes
life in Birkatadt in the interval between combustion and the

8

"I am sorry, Herr Boeck, but I do not sell my son."

seeing the same things. Very timely, very resolutely he said:
eng, a merry-go-round. Wherever you got on, you were pound to wing mb

Karl Heiser closed his eyes. There it was again. A story without

- 1c -

- 17 -

U.S. policy seemed to be primarily concerned with retaining the status quo. The same officials who had carried out Nazi policies now enforced Military Government regulations. The identical shopkeepers who had prospered under Hitler now did business under American occupation. Life in Birkstadt looked normal, but the people were uneasy because they felt that the situation was not normal. The upheaval they had undergone had been so enormous that the very normalcy seemed a mockery.

The few persons who had longed and waited for the collapse of Hitler became confused, perplexed and felt out-of-place, because what was happening was so completely different from what they had expected. The majority of the population, that felt very cynical after seeing all the promises of their leaders collapse, began to say that all war was propaganda, all propaganda lies and that right was on the stronger side.

But nobody said anything loudly yet, because there was still the possibility of conditions changing when the war was over and because the U.S. Army still looked strong. Occasionally a tank rolled through the town.

And when the wind was right, one could hear from the distance, like a reminder, like a call to judgement, the rumble of the artillery. . . .

The end of the war came to Birkstadt on a Spring-day, so beautiful

- 17 -

- 11 -

The end of the war came to Birkeladt on a spring-day, so beautiful

artificially. . . .

like a reminder, like a call to judgment, the mace of the

through the town.

because the U. S. Army still looked strong. Occasionally a tank roll
the boldness of conditions changing when the war was over and

But nobody said anything long ago, because there was a still

age.

the propaganda, all propaganda lies and that right was on the stronger
all the bromides of their leaders collides, begun to ask that all was
The majority of the population, that left very liberal, after seeing
was happening was so completely different from what they had expected.

Higher became confused, perplexed and left out-of-the-place, because what
The few persons who had longed and waited for the collapse of
had so enormous that the very normally seemed a joke.

that the situation was not normal. The unseveral they had undergone had
in Birkeladt looked normal, but the people were uneven because they felt
broadened under Hitler, now did business under American occupation. The
Military Government regulations. The identical shopkeepers who had
gone. The same officials who had carried out their policies now enforced
U.S. policy seemed to be primarily concerned with retaining the status

- 11 -

- 18 -

and so pure that it seemed made for peace. The women were on the market-place doing their shopping, the fountain sparkling in the sunlight. Peace came to Birkstadt in the form of an American sound-truck:

"Citizen of Birkstadt! To-day for the first time in six years all is quiet on the fronts of Europe. For the first time in six years you can sleep easily, for none of your dear ones is anymore in danger.

"Let us, in this moment, put away our hatreds, our differences and our recriminations. People of Birkstadt, return to your homes and there quietly think of your sons, your brothers, your fathers. And when you do that and remember the misery and suffering of the last six years, please ask yourselves one question: 'Why?'"

The truck moved on.

It was quiet on the market-place.

Women silently took handkerchiefs out of their pockets and wiped their eyes.

A man began to cough audibly.

The children realized that something important was occurring and were very still.

Everybody remained stationary, almost as if suspended in mid-motion, almost as if unable to believe, almost as if their lives had moved out with the sound-truck and nothing been put back in their place.

Lieutenant Hassett was watching the scene from the window of his office. This is one of the rare occasions, he thought, when men's hearts

- 18 -

["- 18 -", "Office. This is one of the rare occasions, he thought, when men's hearts\nwere in the grip of some one from the window of his\noffice. Haseatt was watching the scene from the window of his\noffice. This is one of the rare occasions, he thought, when men's hearts", "moved out with the sound-truck and nodding been but back in their place.\nmotion, almost as if unable to believe, almost as if their lives had\nbeen very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very,\nEverybody remained stationary, almost as if it were settled in mid-\nwere very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very, very,\n

- 19 -

are open and yearning for an answer. In this moment, all the fences that humans erect against each other have collapsed and we stand naked, hungry and in the final analysis, alone.

He remembered a scene in Le Havre.

A group of German prisoners of war was loaded on a ship, guarded by American Military Police. Darkness had fallen. Suddenly the Germans began to sing Lilli Marlene. The American sentries continued to pace. One of them started to hum with the chorus. And all at once, out of the darkness of the harbor, men of all nationalities were singing it in English, in German, in French: Lilli Marlene.

That is it, Lieutenant Hassett thought, we must find a common denominator of humanity to overcome the hatred, the suffering and the hopelessness of these years. We are all of us weak, all of us frail. We are not meant to suffer. Why can we not shake these people and shout: 'Listen, wake up, there are higher aims in life but war and greater passions than hatred. Why can you not be simple, and ordinary and happy?'

It is not too late. The manner in which we announced defeat to our enemies bespoke inner values. We can still demonstrate that our ideas are virile, alive, decent. We can lay the foundations in

- 19 -

- 10 -

ideas are alive, alive, decent. We can let the foundations in
our enemies peep out inner lives. We can still demonstrate that om
it is not too late. The manner in which we announced defeat to
Davyd?

besides then patred. Why can you not be simple, and ordinary and
'listen, wake up, there are higher things put war and greater
are not meant to submit. Why can we not make these people and about:
behaviour of these here. We are all of us weak, all of us weak. We
denominator of humanity to overcome the patred, the antlering and the
That is it, Lieutenant Haslett thought, we must find a common

Filiel Marlene.

nationalities were acting it in England, in German, in French:
and all at once, out of the darkness of the horizon, men of all
continued to be. One of them started to hum with the chorus.
the Germans began to sing Filiel Marlene. The American allies
charged by American Military Police. Darkness had fallen. Subsequent
A group of German prisoners of war was placed on a ship.

Humans erect against each other have colluded and we stand naked, unmur-
der the open and learning for an answer. In this moment, all the tenses that

- 18 -

- 20 -

every-day relations of decency, of justice, of honesty, of tolerance. Then
no matter what the future may bring, we will have accomplished our mission.
Why do we always have to hide behind abstractions and slogans, such as
'economic forces' and 'normalcy'? Let us use this moment when the souls
are hungry and the spirit willing. It is a moment that comes only once
in a life time.

Thus felt Lieutenant Hassett in the relief of a lonely moment.
But in his heart of hearts he was nonetheless a little uneasy. For he
feared that very possibly the fundamentals would be overlooked. . . .

- 20 -

- 50 -

tended that very basically the fundamentals would be overlooked. . . .
But in his part of parts he was nonetheless a little uneasy. For he
Time felt transient least in the relief of a lonely moment.

in a little time.

are puny and the spirit willing. It is a moment that comes only once
'economic forces' and 'normality.'? Let us see this moment when the sense
will do we always have to hide behind deceptions and obstructions, such as
no matter what the future may bring, we will have accomplished our mission.
everly-day relations of degeneracy, of justice, of honesty, of tolerance. Then

- 50 -

- 21 -

1

De-Nazification, the purging of Nazi influences from German life, had been proclaimed a major Allied objective. The newspapers said so. The radio confirmed it.

It took the U.S. Army three months after the war ended to begin implementing this policy.

A violent controversy raged in the meantime. Some persons advocated immediate and strict de-Nazification, for reasons of justice, before continuing with other occupation tasks. Others argued for a policy of letting by-gones be by-gones and allowing nothing interfere with the job at hand. There were arguments that in order to build democracy one had to first eradicate Nazism and theories that democracy would not even have a chance in a period of instability that was bound to follow a strict de-Nazification.

One high-ranking general even went so far as to say that the whole de-Nazification argument made him sick, it reminded him too much of the Democratic-Republican feuds in the States. The 'outs' had always, would forever, tear apart the 'ins'. This did not sit too well with the soldiers of the occupation army, who had believed that the Nazis were the only reason for their being in Germany and who consequently hated the Nazis.

The general was relieved and the principle of de-Nazification was agreed upon.

An order was issued laying down the mechanics of this policy.

- 21 -

- 51 -

An order was issued calling down the Executive of this Power.
was agreed upon.

The General was relieved and theible of de-Installation
the Huts.

the only reason for their being in Germany and who consequently rated
soldiers of the occupation army, who had believed that theuts were
would forever, fear what the 'uts.' This did not lift off well with the
of the Democratic-Revolutionary tussle in the States. The 'uts' had slaved,
whole de-Installation argument made him stop, it reminded him too much
One fighting General even went so far as to say that the
de-Installation.

adance in a period of instability that was found to follow a strict
tight enforce Huts and theories that democracy would not even have a
stard. There were arguments that in order to build democracy one had to
letting fly-bones do fly-bones and allowing nothing interfere with the top
controlling with other occupation tanks. Others argued for a policy of
immediate and strict de-Installation, for reasons of justice, before
A violent controversy raged in the军事. Some persons advocated
implementing this policy.

It took the U.S. Army three months after the war ended to begin
radio confirmed it.

had been proclaimed a major Allied objective. The newspapers said so. The
De-Installation, the birth of Mass influences from German file,

- 51 -

- 22 -

Fragebogen or questionnaires, listing 131 basic questions, were to be distributed to the German public officials by Military Government. The Security Officer of the area would collect these questionnaires and vet them. He would then submit his recommendations for removal or retention to Military Government.

Military Government would presumably carry out these recommendations. Nothing was said about that.

Nor was anything defined as to what yard-sticks should be used in determining an individual's degree of Nazi activity.

2

De-nazification became the major topic of conversation in Birkstadt. It was the first test of the conquerors' mettle. It was a policy that directly or indirectly affected every inhabitant. The big question-mark was Lieutenant Hassett. It was up to him to make recommendations. What standards would he use? At what year of Nazi party membership would he draw the dividing line that made removal mandatory?

Some citizen of Birkstadt advocated that all persons who joined the Nazi party before 1937 be dismissed from public office. This group felt that such early followers of a Nazi ideology had been real fanatics and were responsible for the present misery.

A typical representative of this school of thought was

- 22 -

- 55 -

A typical representative of this school of thought was
realist politics and were reasonable for the present time.

This group felt that such early followers of a Nazi ideology had passed
toled the Nazi party before 1931 be dismissed from public offices.

Some citizen of Birmarstab advocated that all persons who
mandatory?

party membership would be drawn the dividing line that made removal
recommendations. What standard would he use? At what year of Nazi
demotion-mark was Lieutenant Hanett. It was up to him to make
bolszky that directly or indirectly affected every inhabitant. The pig
Birmarstab. It was the first test of the confluence, settle. It was a

De-nazification became the major topic of conversation in
Birmarstab. It was the first test of the confluence, settle. It was a
barbarous act. It was the first test of the confluence, settle. It was a

3

Nor was anything defined as to what hard-attitude should be used
recommendations. Nothing was said about that.

to Military Government.

them. He would then submit his recommendations for removal or retention
Security Officer of the area would collect these questionnaires and send
distributions to the German public offices by Military Government. The
Inquiries or questionnaires, relating to past questions, were to be

- 55 -

(A)

- 23 -

Wilhelm Habelt.

He had joined the Nazi party in 1939.

Another line of reasoning held that the true culprits were those who had joined the Nazi party in 1937 and after. The early members had joined out of well-meaning idealism, ran this argument, but later on people had had a chance to see which direction the Nazis were moving and should have known better. This group advocated the summary dismissal of all Nazis from 1937 onward.

A typical proponent of this theory was Dr. Sauer.

He had joined the Nazi party in 1935.

Lieutenant Hassett said nothing.

Major Brown was worried. He cursed de-Nazification out of the fullness of his heart. Just when everything was running smoothly, this had to happen. What difference did it make what party a man belonged to in 1939? He was working for the United States now, wasn't he? If he were a Nazi he would quit, wouldn't he? Major Brown found this logic of his arguments incontrovertible.

As a crowning indignity, Lieutenant Hassett had been placed in a position where he could make recommendations. That man obviously did not care about a smooth-running city administration. Those big

- 23 -

- 52 -

did not care about a smooth-running office administration. Those big
in a position where he could make recommendations. That's all he could do.
As a crowning instability, Lieutenant Bennett had been placed
logic of his arguments incongruous.

He were a man he would doubt, wouldn't he? Major Brown found this
to in 1923. He was working for the United States now, wasn't he? It
had to happen. What difference did it make what party a man belonged to
in his party. That was running smoothly, this
Major Brown was worried. He owned a Wilkinslocation out of the
Lieutenant Bennett said nothing.

He had joined the Nazi Party in 1933.

A radical protagonist of this Germany was Dr. Bauer.

Of all the Nikes from 1934 onward,
and should have known better. This group advocated the summary elimination
people had had a chance to see which direction the Nikes were moving
joined out of well-meaning ideality, ran this argument, but later on
who had joined the Nazi Party in 1933 and after. The early members had
another line of reasoning debt that the trueelnites were those
He had joined the Nazi Party in 1933.

Bennett Bennett.

- 53 -

- 24 -

phrases of objectivity. Efficiency, hard work, that was the answer.

Major Brown called on Lieutenant Hassett.

"Don't be hard on me, go easy," he pleaded.

Lieutenant Hassett looked at him quizzically:

"You see, Major Brown, it is not a question of hard or easy. It is a question of being right."

This did not put Major Brown at ease. . . .

It was clear to everybody in Birkstadt that Lieutenant Hassett needed a German assistant to advise him on de-Nazification. Having come from 3000 miles away, Lieutenant Hassett could not possibly solve all the ramifications of the problem without the advice of a person who had been on the spot.

Lieutenant Hassett agreed.

A powerful faction, including Major Brown, energetically supported Joachim Boeck for that position.

Lieutenant Hassett asked him one question:

"What do you think gives us the right to de-Nazify?"

"The victor has the right to do anything he pleases," Joachim Boeck answered.

Joachim Boeck did not get the job.

Instead Lieutenant Hassett did something very unorthodox. He inquired which public official had been the first to be dismissed by the Nazis.

The next day Karl Hetzner was called to Lieutenant Hassett.

- 24 -

- 54 -

The next day Karl Hensler was called to Lieutenant Hasseett's
the base.

The base. Inquired which public official had been the first to be dismissed by Interserved Lieutenant Hasseett did something very amorphous. He Johnson Boock did not get the job.

answered.

"The victor has the right to do anything he pleases," Johnson Boock said. "What do you think gives me the right to beMASTER?"

Lieutenant Hasseett asked him one question:

Johnson Boock for that question.

A powerful faction, including Major Brown, energetically endorsed
Lieutenant Hasseett agrees.

on the spot.

Rumors of the problem without the advice of a person who had been
from 3000 miles away, Lieutenant Hasseett could not beautifully solve all the
needs a German assistant to advise him on de-Masitification. Having come
It was clear to everybody in Birkatshat that Lieutenant Hasseett
was clear to everybody in Birkatshat that Lieutenant Hasseett

This did not but Major Brown at ease. . . .

"You see, Major Brown, it is not a question of hard or easy. It
Lieutenant Hasseett looked at him seriously:

"Don't be hard on me, so easy," he bienged.

Major Brown called on Lieutenant Hasseett.

blessed of optimism. Efficiency, hard work, that was the answer.

- 54 -

- 25 -

3

Lieutenant Hassett rose when Karl Hetzner entered and indicated a chair.

"Mr. Hetzner, I have asked you here to discuss several problems of some concern to the community with you. I will be frank and I hope you will, too. But first it is necessary that I know a few things about you."

"Please."

"Cigarette?"

"No - thank you - not now."

"Please help yourself when you are ready."

"Thank you."

Lieutenant Hassett cleared his throat:

"I understand, Mr. Hetzner, that you were dismissed by the Nazis in 1933, as soon as they came to power."

"That is right."

"Tell me, Mr. Hetzner, why were you an anti-Nazi?"

"Because I am a Christian." He said it simply, decisively, with finality, as if Christianity and Nazism were incompatible, as if twelve years of terror could be compressed into that phrase.

Lieutenant Hassett looked at him:

"And why does being a Christian exclude being a Nazi?"

How flippant they all are. Is it possible that all our suffering, all our hopes, all the cries for help have been in a vacuum?

- 25 -

- 32 -

eff our hobs, eff the croy for help have been in a season?

How liffident they all are. Is it possible that eff our entering,
"And why does being a Christian excite pain a Nazi?"

Lieutenant Hasseett looked at him:

Years of terror could be compressed into that brief.
Quality, as it Christianity and Nazism were incompatible, as it twelve
"Because I am a Christian." He said it simply, decisively, with
"Tell me, Mr. Hasseett, why were you an anti-Nazi?"
"That is right."

"I understand, Mr. Hasseett, that you wereibilized by the Nazi
Lieutenant Hasseett cleared his throat:

"Thank you."

"No - thank you - not now."

"Cigarette?"

"Bless."

You will, too. But first it is necessarily that I know a few things about
of some concern to the community with you. I will be frank and I hope
"Mr. Hasseett, I have asked you here to discuss several problems
a chair.

Lieutenant Hasseett rose when Karl Hasseett entered and indicated

- 32 -

- 26 -

"Because," Karl Heinzner said hoarsely, "the Nazis violated the
dogma that Man is created in God's image. Because they beat him and
tortured him and put an unholy fear in him." All the twelve years
walled up in Karl Heinzner and he forgot where he was.

"Because they made him draw the shades of his window," he
shouted, "for fear of being observed and made him whisper even to his
family, lest he might be overheard. Because they trampled on him and
killed him and made him debase himself. Because Man lost all conceptions
of personal dignity and gave up his Self for an ordinary, low conformity.
Because by violating Man, the Nazis violated God. Tell me, Sir, have you
ever seen the foreigners we forced to work in Germany?"

The Ahlem labor camp was built on a hillside near a big
city. Its inmates were forced to work 20 hours a day in a mine
in semi-darkness. Their feet were crushed that they could not
run away.

The day the Americans arrived, the Poles trapped one of
their guards underground. They beat him, they pummeled him, they
swarmed over him like ants. Yet so weak were they from lack of
food that the guard was not even scratched when Lieutenant
Hassett came to arrest him.

Yes, Lieutenant Hassett had seen the Foreign Workers.

"Thank you, Mr. Heinzner," he said. "I am not used to seeing
persons with convictions in my office."

- 26 -

Because with convictions in my offices."

"Thank you, Mr. Hetsner," he said. "I am not sure to seeing
you, Lieutenant Hennett has seen the foreign workers.

Hennett came to arrest him.
Took that the guard was not even scratched when lieutenant
swarmed over him like bees. Yet so weak were they from lack of
their grass undergromm. They put him, they humiliated him, then
The day the Americans arrived, the police trapped one of
them away.

in semi-bankruptcy. Their feet were crushed that they could not
city. Its inmates were forced to work 20 hours a day in a mine
The Adam Japton camp was built on a village near a pig
over seen the foreigners we forced to work in Germany."

Because by violating Man, the Nations violated God. Tell me, Sir, have you
of beneficial dignity and have no piece of the pie set for an ordinary, low conformity.
Killed him and made him dependent himself. Because Man lost all conceptions
family, lest he might be overheard. Because they trembled on him and
shook, "for fear of being observed and made him wunder even to his
"Because they made him draw the lines of his window," he
walked by in Karl Hetsner and he forgot where he was.

fortified him and put anSTOP sign on him." All the twelve years
dogs that Man is created in God's image. Because they put him and
"Because," Karl Hetsner said hesitantly, "the Nations violated the

- 50 -

- 27 -

"I am afraid you see our people from its very worst side. I am afraid twelve years of Nazi rule and six years of war have brought out their basest instincts."

I like this man, Lieutenant Hassett thought.

"Tell me, Mr. Hetzner, you must have suffered many indignities during the last twelve years. Would you care to mention any names of culprits, so that we can punish them?"

Karl Hetzner remembered the Hitler picture and Wilhelm Habelt. He thought of the night when a brick had been thrown through his window with the inscription: 'Enemy of the People'.

"I . . . do not think so," he answered. "We can not build on vindictiveness. . . . No, that would be the worst possible way to start out."

There was a brief silence. Lieutenant Hassett picked up a cigarette.

"One more question, Mr. Hetzner, why did you wait until you were called? Why did you not volunteer your services?"

"Because I did not want to be classed in the same category with men of the type that have pushed themselves to the front since occupation."

Lieutenant Hassett noted that Karl Hetzner had not said 'liberation'.

"Men like Joachim Boeck?" he asked.

Karl Hetzner looked at him steadily.

- 27 -

- 51 -

"Men like Tonny in Boeck?" he asked.

liberation.

Lieutenant Hasseett noted that Karl Hetzner had not said
encounter.

with men of the type that have been themselves to the front since
"Because I did not want to be classified in the same category
were called. Why did you not volunteer your services?"

"One more question, Mr. Hetzner, why did you wait until you
cigarette.

There was a strict silence. Lieutenant Hasseett looked up a
out."

vindictiveness. . . No, that would be the worst possible way to start
"I . . . do not think so," he answered. "We can not pull on
with the inaccuracy: 'Memory of the people'.

He thought of the night when a brick had been thrown through his window
Karl Hetzner remembered the Hitler picture and Wilhelm Hecht.
outright, no that we can banish them?"

during the last twelve hours. Would you care to mention any names of
"Tell me, Mr. Hetzner, you must have encountered many ingenuity
I like this man, Lieutenant Hasseett thought.
their past experiences."

struck twelve hours of six o'clock and six o'clock of the night have brought out
"I am strung you see our people from its very worst side. I am
their past experiences."

- 51 -

- 28 -

"Men like Joachim Boeck," he answered.

"How do you think de-Nazification should be handled?" Major Brown asked.

Joachim Boeck bowed servilely.

"As you, Herr Major, so ably pointed out yourself, the best support for our young democracy is stable government. No radical changes, no feeling of insecurity. After all, the present public officials are not really Nazis. Most of them are only too eager to work for you. What danger is there?"

"You are right," Major Brown replied, "one hundred per cent right."

"I do not think," Lieutenant Hassett said, "that the majority of the men now in office are at present Nazis. But that is not the point. The point is, what would they be if a new dictatorship ever arose? Democracy would not have collapsed so entirely in Germany from one day to the next, if the civil service had not changed allegiance overnight. In 1933, they exchanged democracy for dictatorship. Now they are democrats again. What we need is a group of public officials, with backbone enough to stand up for their beliefs, that does not bow to every expediency of the moment. What do you think, these present 'convinced democrats' would do, if Hitler came back? Would they stand up for democracy? I view de-Nazification not so much as the negative task of removing officials from office as punishment, but as creating a bulwark against dictatorship. How can we best accomplish this?"

- 28 -

- 58 -

a private against dictatorship. How can we put accomplished this?
task of removing officials from office so punishment, but as creating
no for democracy? I view de-Malification not so much as the negative
convinced democrats, would do, if Hitler came back? Would they stand
to every excommunication of the moment? What do you think, these present
with packpone enough to stand up for their beliefs, that does not pow
democrats again. What we need is a group of public officials,
overright. In 1933, they exchanged democracy for dictatorship. Now
one day to the next, if the civil service had not changed allegiance
arose? Democracy would not have coalesced so entirely in Germany from
point. The point is, what would they do if a new dictatorship ever
of the men now in office are at present民主. But that is not the
"I do not think." Lieutenant Haslett said, "that the majority
rights."

"You are right," Major Brown replied, "one hundred her cent
generals is there?"

not really right. Most of them are only too eager to work for you. What
no feeling of insecurity. After all the present public officials are
embarrass for our young democracy in a stable government. No radical changes,

"As you, Herr Major, so apply pointed out yourself, the best
tochim Boock powered servilely.

Brown asked.

"How do you think de-Malification should be handled?" Major

"Men like Joseph Boock," he answered.

- 58 -

- 29 -

Karl Hetsner thought for several minutes.

"I believe," he replied, "that it is well worth-while to exchange efficiency for character. Above all, you should avoid categorizing. By that I mean you should not lay down blanket rules, eliminating persons who joined the Nazi party in a certain year, and whitewashing people who entered after a definite deadline. That would be repeating Nazi technique. The idea of individual justice should be resurrected and each case tried on its merit. Then besides removing Nazi influences, you will have implanted a new principle just as you want."

Lieutenant Hassett leaned back in his chair.

"Mr. Hetsner," he said, "that is how it will be done. We will not establish categories. We will consider each case individually. But for that I need your assistance. I must know, how certain people comported themselves over the last twelve years. I could understand a natural reluctance on your part to see yourself in the role of an informer. I can not even offer you anything in return but the fact that in your own mind you will know that a policy affecting all your people will be carried out, without vindictiveness and great objectivity. I can offer you nothing but the satisfaction of a job well done and my fullest support. What do you say?"

I have waited for this twelve years, Karl Hetsner thought. And now that it is happening, I can not be joyous, I can not be elated ... I can only be humble and grateful ... remembering ...

"I shall be cursed from one end of Birkstadt to the other, but

- 29 -

- 50 -

"I shall be cured from one end of Birkbeck to the other, but
I can only be pimple and gruel! ... remembering ...

now that it is happening. I can not be to-day. I can not be elated ...
I have waited for this twelve years, Karl Heineuer thought. And
fullest authority. What do you say?

I can offer you nothing but the satisfaction of a job well done and my
behave will be carried out, without anyintolerance and great objectivity.
that in your own mind you will know that a policy affecting all your
informer. I can not even offer you anything in return but the last
a natural reluctance on your part to see yourself in the role of an
embarrassed themselves over the last twelve years. I could understand
for that I need your assistance. I must know, how certain people
not adequate categories. We will consider each case individually. But
"Mr. Heineuer," he said, "that is how it will be done. We will
heaventast Haaseff leamed back in his chair.

went.

Mazt influences, you will have implanted a new principle that as you
reinstated and each case tried on its merit. Then perhaps removing
be repeating Mazt technique. The idea of individual justice should be
whitewashing people who entered after a definite deadline. That would
eliminating persons who joined the Mazt party in a certain year, and
categorizing. By that I mean you should not lay down platoon rules,
exchange efficiency for character. Above all, you should avoid

"I believe," he replied, "that it is well worth-while to
Karl Heineuer thought for several minutes.

- 59 -

(D)

- 30 -

I will help you, for the good of our people."

4

Many citizen of Birkstadt were suddenly afflicted with attacks of amnesia. They forgot their dates of entry into the Nazi party and in very accurate cases even their very party membership. When this forgetfulness was reflected in their Military Government questionnaires, Lieutenant Hassett brought the violators to trial.

Major Brown was very busy. As judge in the Military Government court of Birkstadt he was forced to preside over the proceedings. Major Brown was not happy about this. His heart was not in de-Nazification.

One day, the lawyer for a man accused of backdating his Nazi party membership by several years pleaded:

"Granted that the accused falsified his Questionnaire. But isn't that only human, in a man filled with a sense of duty, that has realized his mistake and wants to continue his work? With all due respect to the court, I would like to ask: 'What would you have done in his position?'"

Major Brown thought he knew what he would have done in a similar situation. He had considerable sympathy with people who wanted to continue on the job. The defendant in this case received a suspended sentence of one month in jail.

Henceforth, it became known among the population of Birkstadt

- 30 -

- 30 -

Henceforth, it becomes known among the population of Birmatadt
one word in itself.
on the job. The attendant in this case received a substantial sentence of
situation. He had considerable sympathy with people who wanted to continue
Major Brown thought he knew what he would have done in a similar
court. I would like to ask: 'What would you have done in the situation?'".
the mistake and wants to continue his work? With all due respect to the
that only human, in a man lifted with a sense of duty, that he realized
"Granted that the accused testified his questionnaire. But isn't
barely responsible by several layers blended?

One day, the Iskus for a man accused of robbing his East
Brown was not found about this. His證 was not in de-Militiaition.
court of Birmatadt he was forced to breathe over the proceedings. Major
Mator Brown was very proud. You judge in the Military Government
Hassett brought the violators to trial.

was reflected in their Military Government questionnaire, Lieutenant
very sincere cause even their very barey membershig. When this forgetfulness
of amusements. They forgot their dates of entry into the East party and in
Many citizen of Birmatadt were suddenly afflicted with attacks

4

- 30 -

- 31 -

that falsifying Military Government questionnaires distributed to aid
in the enforcement of Military Government policies was a chance worth
taking.

5

All at once, Karl Hetzner had many friends. People who had
avoided him on the street, men that had refused to associate with him,
suddenly remembered old acquaintances and pressing problems to talk over.

"How have you been faring since liberation?" Wilhelm Habelt
asked.

This is good, Karl Hetzner thought, the leader of the 'people's
army', the hero that wanted to defend the holy soil of Germany.

"Since when?" he replied.

"Well . . . since . . . well, since the occupation. . . . You
mean you are not on their side?"

You dirty bastard. If you had only the courage of your
convictions. But then . . . that's it . . . you have no convictions.
You are . . . nothing.

"I am on nobody's side. I go my way. You should know that by
now."

"I know and I have always known it. How often have I told my
wife: 'Herr Hetzner is a real man'?"

- 31 -

- If -

wife: Herr Hettner is a real man.?

"I know and I have always known it. How often have I told my
now."

"I am on nobody's side. I go my way. You should know that by
you are . . . nothing.

convictions. But then . . . that's it . . . you have no convictions.
You dirty scoundrel. It you had only the conscience of your
mean you are not on their side?"

"Well . . . since . . . well, since the occupation . . . You
"Since when?" he rebuffed.

army', the hero that wanted to defend the poly roll of Germany.
This is good, Karl Hettner thought, the leader of the people's
asked.

"How have you been tiring since liberation?" Wilhelm Haeft
enjoyed remembering old acquaintances and breaking problems to talk over.
Evolved him on the street, men that had returned to associate with him,
All at once, Karl Hettner had many friends. People who had

2

taking.

in the enforcement of Military Government policies was a success worth
that telating Military Government questionnaires distributed to all

- If -

(A)

- 32 -

That is undoubtedly why you threw that stone through the window.
That is certainly why you denounced me to the Gestapo.

"What do you want, Herr Habelt?"

"Karl," Wilhelm Habelt began, but when he saw the look on the other's face continued: "Herr Hetzner, . . . in your present position . . . I mean . . . we were young . . . we were deceived . . . "

"You mean will I protect you?"

"Remember our old friendship. After all, we are neighbors."

"That seemed to mean very little to you for twelve years."

"But we are all Germans. Let us settle our differences among ourselves. Let us not go to the enemy."

Karl Hetzner stepped up to the other man and pulled him up by the collar.

"Listen, Habelt," he said, "I am not going to denounce you, but not because you are a German. I am not doing it, because I will not let you and people like you say I used my position for personal revenge. I will not let you impair the value of what we are trying to do by impugning our motives. But also I will not protect you. If Lieutenant Hassett should hear about you from another source, then I hope he will punish you properly."

"Now let me give you one piece of warning. I am not going to denounce you. But if you step back into this house I will break your head."

Wilhelm Habelt walked to the door. He hesitated for a minute and then he turned.

- 32 -

- 35 -

and then he turned.

Willy-Hepfet walked to the door. He waited for a minute
before he turned away.

How let me give you one piece of warning. I am not going to
rob you will benefit you properly.

Presentent Haepeft should hear about you from another source, then I
do fly investigating our motives. But so I will not protect you. It
revenge. I will not let you injure the cause of what we are trying to
not let you and people like you say. I need my position for personal
but not because you are a German. I am not going it, because I will
not let you protect you.

Karl Haezner stepped in to the other man and drilled him in that
enormous. Let us not go to the enemy."

"But we are all Germans. Let us settle our differences among
"That seemed to mean very little to you for twelve hours."

"Remember our old friends." After all, we are neighbors."
"You mean will I protect you?"

... I mean ... we were wrong ... we were deceived ... 

Other a face continued: "Herr Haezner, ... in your present position
"Karl," Willy-Hepfet began, but when he saw the look on the
"What do you want, Herr Haepeft?"

- 35 -

(H)

"You are a big man now, Herr Hetzner." His voice was quiet, yet he spat out his words. "But you will not be a big man forever. And then we'll watch out. Your type never goes far. Remember that . . . you traitor."

6

Lieutenant Hassett began with the job of de-Nazification. He worked as though the success of the whole Occupation depended on his labors. He struggled, as if by the very intensity of his effort he could undo the shattered hopes and broken lives that marked the past. Together with Karl Hetzner he began his fight early in the morning when the sun was just coming up at the edge of the valley, when the streets were still empty and the day still innocent. And late stragglers in the streets of Birkstadt, seeing the light still burning in the Security Office nudged each other and wondered what important decisions required such late work.

Frau Hetzner told her husband to slow down, he was ruining his health, but he only smiled: "You do not understand. This causes all we have gone through to make sense."

The routine in de-Nazification began with Lieutenant Hassett reading the public official's questionnaire. Karl Hetzner then recounted the applicant's record over the time of the Nazi regime. After Lieutenant Hassett had compared these statements, the individual concerned was called in for

["had compared these statements, the individual concerns were called in to\nsupport the public officer's statements. Karl Heisner then reviewed the\nsubsequent record over the time of the real incident. After listening to the\nstatements of the other证人, he decided that he had to make some\nchanges in his statements.", "The routine in the station was the same.", "Health, but he only smiled: \"You do not understand. This causes all we\nknow about him to slow down, he was running his\ntrunk Heisner told her husband to slow down, he was running his\nrequired and late work.", "Security Office checked each other and wondered what important decisions\nin the streets of Berlin had been made that still remained in the\nstreets were still empty and the day still innocent. And late stragglers\nwhen the sun was just coming up at the edge of the valley, when the\ntogether with Karl Heisner he began his light early in the morning\ncould make the scattered done and broken lives that marked the past.\nBefore, he struggled, so it by the very intensity of his effort he\nworked as though the success of the whole occupation depended on his\nsuccess in the station.", "3", "Karl Heisner began with the job of de-escalation. He\ntriated.\n\na. watch out. Your job is never to let him remember that ... you\nbe safe out of the way. \"But you will not be a pig man forever. And then\nyou are a pig man now, Herr Heisner.\" His voice was quiet, but\n\"You are a pig man now, Herr Heisner.\" His voice was quiet, but

- 34 -

an interview. Each case was considered as carefully and each person
given as many chances as if that specific case or that particular
person were the only one's involved in de-Nazification.

At the end of a day where the hours had been long and the
flood of human degradation seemingly limitless, Lieutenant Hassett
turned to Karl Hetsner and said:

"If only one person came and said: 'I joined the Nazi party
out of conviction. I did what I thought was right. If I had to do it
over again, I would still do it. I am sorry but those are my beliefs.'
then I would think that there is at least a person with character.
That type of person I could respect."

But no such person ever came.

There was a man who said that if he had known at all about the
concentration camps, he would never have joined the Nazi party. When
he was asked why he had joined, he replied he had been forced in.

"How could you be forced in?" Lieutenant Hassett asked.

"I was afraid to go to a concentration camp if I did not join,"
was the answer.

Another individual stated he had joined the Nazi party 'only
a little bit.' What did he mean by a little bit? Well . . . the year

- 34 -

a little pit.' Must he mean by a little pit? Well . . . the bear
Another individual stated he had joined the Unit party 'only
was the answer.'

"I was afraid to go to a concentration camp if I did not join."

"How config you be forced in?" Lieutenant Hasseett asked.

he was asked why he had joined, he replied he had been forced in.
concentration camp, he would never have joined the Unit party. When

But no one here ever came.

That fine of person I config respect."

then I would think that there is at least a person with character.
over again, I would still do it. I am sorry but those are my beliefs,
out of conviction. I did what I thought was right. If I had to do it
"If only one person came and said: 'I joined the Unit party
turned to Karl Hetner and said:

flood of human degradation seemingly limitless, Lieutenant Hasseett
At the end of a day where the hours had been long and the

bescon were the only one's a involved in gaushification.

Given as many chances as it that specific case or that buttonless
an interview. Each case was considered so carefully and each person

- 54 -

1931. And why then? As a spy for the Jews.

One public official came to Lieutenant Hassett and made a violent
attack on militarism. Germany could only become great if all militarists
were ruthlessly purged. When the man left, he clicked his heels and gave
a stiff Prussian bow.

And through it, with the nihilism of persons whose past has
become meaningless and whose future seems non-existent, came the cry
of the young people: "What have we done? We were young, we had hoped.
We believed our elders. What should we have done? What has been our
crime?"

Seeing their elders perform in his office, Lieutenant Hassett
had considerable sympathy for the youth of Birkstadt.

7

Joachim Boeck watched the rise of Karl Heinzner with misgivings.

"You have gone far since we last met, Herr Heinzner," he said.

"I suppose I have. I did not think of it that way."

"You know, Heinzner, I have always believed that democracy is
concerted effort."

- 22 -

concerned efforts."

"You know, Heine, I have always believed that democracy is
"I suppose I have." I did not think so, at that time."

"You have gone far since we first met, Herr Heine," he said.

Jocquin Boeck watched the rise of Karl Heine with migdilings.

7

had considerable sympathy for the cause of Bismarck.

Seeing their elders border in his office, Lieutenant Heine said

on one?

We believed our elders. What should we have done? What has been our
of the long people: "What have we done? We were long, we had hoped.
become meaningless and whose future seems non-existent, came the end
And through it, with the nadir of persons whose best has

a still prussian pow.

were unfortunately buried. When the man left, he clicked his pen and gave
attack on militarism. Germany could only become great if all militaries

One public official came to Lieutenant Heine and made a violent

1931. And why then? As a boy for the Jews.

- 22 -

- 36 -

"I think I told you once that there is no use in your trying
to sell me these slogans."

"But don't you see what you and I could do together, if you were
only reasonable?"

"How?"

"Listen, Hetzner, you are the chief aid of the Security Officer,
I am the right hand of the Military Governor."

"Yes?"

"If you and I, saw eye to eye, if we both pushed the same
proposals at the same time, we could be the most powerful people in
Birkstadt."

"But I do not consider myself a power."

Herr Boeck became animated.

"Listen, don't be an idealist all your life. Think of what will
happen after the Americans leave. Now is the time to consolidate your
position."

Karl Hetzner always spoke very gently when he dealt with
Joachim Boeck.

"I am sorry for you, Herr Boeck, that you can not see the
issues of the moment. I am not angry at you, but I can not accept your
offer. Everyone must do what is in him."

Joachim Boeck felt that somehow he was out of place. For a
second he thought how wonderful it must be to be so sure of oneself as
was this Karl Hetzner. But then he smiled politely:

- 36 -

- 30 -

was the Karl Hetzner. But then he smiledНОЙНО:
second he thought how wonderful it was to be so sure of oneself
Joachim Boeck felt that somehow he was out of place. For a
other. Everyone must do what is in him."

"I am sorry for you, Herr Boeck, that you can not see the
Joachim Boeck.

Karl HetznerENGINEER: When he dealt with
booths.

before the Americans leave. Now is the time to consolidate your
"listen, don't be an ideologist all your life. Think of what will
Herr Boeck become animated.

"But I do not consider myself a boer."

Birkett.

proposals at the same time, we could be the most powerful people in
"It you and I, saw eye to eye, if we both trusted the same
"Yes."

"Listen, Hetzner, you are the only one of the Security Officer,
"How?"

only reasonable?"

"But don't you see what you and I both go together, if you were
to sell me these slogsna."

- 30 -