Searching for Humanity: Veterans, Victims and Survivors of World War II

Searching for Humanity: Veterans, Victims and Survivors of World War II is a unique and moving exhibit that asks its audience to consider the search for humanity during the Holocaust and to reflect on man’s obligation to humankind. Nationally-known artist, Matthew Placzek, sets an affecting environment with photos, memorabilia, and testimony of Nebraska Holocaust survivors, soldiers, and those whose courageous actions liberated prisoners from concentration camps in Nazi-occupied Europe. Upon entering the exhibit, an emotional journey unfolds for visitors as the images chronicle remarkable personal experiences of confronting one of the most inhumane periods in our world’s history.

The exhibit opening on November 17, 2011, hosted by the Institute for Holocaust Education, was attended by over two hundred community members, including more than a dozen survivors and concentration camp liberators. Opening remarks by survivor of Auschwitz and Omaha resident, Sam Fried; exhibit creator, Matthew Placzek; Roy Long of the 71st Infantry, liberator of Gunskirchenlager, and Dr. Tom Williams, son of Staff Seargant Clarence Williams of the 42nd Rainbow Division whose letters, photographs and additional memorabilia are a central element of the exhibit, set the reflective tone for the evening.

Searching for Humanity: Veterans, Victims and Survivors of World War II includes stark images of Nazi brutality, but also includes photos from Nebraska Holocaust survivors and their families after the war – compelling images of survival following one of the most devastating periods in human history. The evening was very emotional for many in attendance.

This exhibit will remain at the Strategic Air and Space Museum through June 2014. Educational programming accompanying the exhibit can be found here . For more information regarding school tours, please contact the Strategic Air and Space Museum at 402.944.3100 or fill out the group/tour registration form here.