Sunday, August 14, 2011

THE PERFECT NAZI : UNCOVERING MY GRANDFATHER'S SECRET PAST
by Martin Davidson

What did Bruno Langbehn do during World War II? For the family, it was always a deep, embarrassing secret. Not until he died was the truth finally discovered by author Martin Davidson, his grandson.
Bruno's childhood was heavily influenced by the military. Columns of marching soldiers were a part of his life right outside his window. His indoctrination began with the uniform. School lessons were mostly about fighting in wars. By the time World War I was over and with the humiliation of Germany's defeat, Bruno knew that he wanted to join some kind of group that could give him the fulfillment that he needed.
On May 17, 1926, Bruno joined the Nazi Party at the age of nineteen. He also affiliated himself with the SA (storm troopers). Several years later, Bruno would be in the SS.
His fanaticism, egotistical views, unwavering support for National Socialism and unrepentant attitude lived on within him until his last dying day.
The Perfect Nazi is both an important and disturbing book. Davidson is a terrific writer and seamlessly weaves together the history of the two world wars. (His background is an editor for the BBC and has produced many documentaries.)
Anyone who is interested in the Third Reich must read this story.
Recommended.

No comments: