Introduction:
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| Captain Harry Schwartzbard |
Family heirlooms may sometimes carry hidden treasures- the kind that could be a significant part of world history. In the case of a unique news clipping from World War II, a unique feature interest story about a Jewish American Soldier received a major honor from battle at a time when Jews were at the height of persecution in Europe.
Published and written in the Yiddish language (often known to be an "old people's" language), the beneficiary held this special news clipping for over 80 years without any idea of its contents. Until recently, the beholder of this news excerpt had very little interest in getting the news piece translated due to the limited popularity of Yiddish-speaking/reading people around. Decades later, the news clip made its way to several historians who not only found significant value in the military success story but how the added coverage (part 2) about the Fifth Column illustrated the early rise of anti-semitism in the Arab world. It also spoke of cases and events of what would eventually become the future Jewish national Home (Israel).
Translated by: Shimmy Schwartz
An excerpt from the former YIDISHES ṬAGEBLAṬṬ (יידישעס טאגעבלאט = Jewish Daily News)
BROOKLYN JEWISH DOCTOR PRAISED FOR HIS HEROISM ON THE MARSHALL ISLANDS
1944 - Captain Harry Schwartzbard, a young Jewish doctor from Brooklyn, received widespread acclaim from the Associated Press for his heroic actions during the invasion of the Marshall Islands. Amidst the chaos of war, with people burning and bullets flying in all directions, Dr. Schwartzbard remained steadfast in his duty, tending to the injured and saving numerous lives. His bravery and selflessness in the face of extreme danger earned him well-deserved recognition.
Mrs. Schwartzbard, residing at 1211 Avenue I in Brooklyn, recently gave birth to a baby two months ago. In a heartwarming moment on Christmas, her husband, Dr. Henry Schwartzbard, called from Honolulu and was able to hear their infant son cry for the first time over the telephone. Although he had yet to see a photo of their child, this moment brought joy to the new father. Mrs. Schwartzbard expressed her pride and happiness regarding the recognition her husband has received for his heroic actions. Dr. Schwartzbard, a graduate of City College and the University of Basel's medical program, was previously affiliated with Lincoln Hospital.
Section 2:
During this (same) period, a fifth column of individuals was spreading hate and working to undermine the United Nations. This group consisted of fascist and Nazi sympathizers, including Arabs, who were willing to betray their allies and collaborate with the enemy. In Egypt, Prime Minister Ali Maher Pasha was stripped of his authority and placed under house arrest due to his suspicious activities. The Egyptian Chief of Staff, General Al-Masri, was also arrested for his involvement in subversive activities in Iraq. Meanwhile, Rashid Ali al-Gaylani, a radical Arab nationalist, attempted to launch an attack against British forces in Iraq before receiving support from Nazi Germany. Furthermore, the notorious Mufti of Palestine, Haj Amin al-Husseini, was collaborating with Hitler's regime in Rome and Berlin. In contrast, the democratic Allies found a welcoming environment in Jewish National Home was being established.
HISTORICAL SIGNIFICANCE OF MARSHALL ISLANDS
Invasion of the Marshall Islands (Operation Flintlock): Jan. 31-Feb. 23, 1944 Following the Gilbert Islands Campaign, the Marshall Islands Campaign consisted of two separate invasions of the Kwajalein and Eniwetok Atoll Groups. Beginning on January 31, 1944 with the landings at Kwajalein, the campaign was declared secure at Eniwetok on February 22. The landing forces met with light, but determined resistance, on both atolls. The forces captured flight bases on the atolls which were crucial to the Mariana Islands Campaign. (Source 1: US NAVY | Source 2: US ARMY)
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EPILOGUE
In the post-war era of global migration to the US, it was common to “Americanize” lengthy or challenging names for easier social connectivity and community integration. By the next generation, the Schwartzbard family name was streamlined for this reason. The infant in this story whose name is recognized as one of the most honored figures in diagnostic medicine and cancer imaging is Dr. Robert Bard.
In May of 2022, Dr. Robert Bard receives one of the highest national achievement awards commemorating his life's work in cancer imaging research and clinical care. The Ellis Island Medal of Honor is presented to those who advocate understanding, tolerance, and unity among Americans, transcending cultural, ethnic, and religious differences. For almost four decades, Dr. Bard's commitment to the study of diagnostic imaging contributed to the advancement of non-invasive medical scanning technologies. As a second generation medical professional and military veteran, Dr. Bard's pursuit to battle disease through research and patient care is a dedication to the life-saving legacy and worldly philosophies as that of his father, Dr. Schwartzbard during and after WWII.
