February 21, 2016
The B’nai B’rith Anti-Defamation Commission (ADC) has mourned the passing of Samuel Willenberg, one of the last remaining survivors of the Treblinka death camp, who died in Israel at the age of 93. Willenberg was part of a group of Jews who in a daring revolt, stole weapons, set fire to the Treblinka death camp and escaped to the woods. Out of hundreds who fled, Willenberg was one of 67 prisoners who managed to make it out alive.
Dr Dvir Abramovich, Chairman of the ADC, issued the following statement:
“Mr. Samuel Willenberg was a true hero who not only survived the hell of the death camps, but an eloquent witness who dedicated his life to preserving the memory of the Shoah and to honouring the 850,000 Jews who were murdered in Treblinka. He inspired us all with his incredible determination to powerfully educate others about the Holocaust, through his public speaking, writing, sculpting, and traveling with young people to Poland to tell them about the horrors of the past. His tragic passing represents a momentous loss in the ever dwindling circle of Holocaust survivors. Present and future generation are now tasked with the mission of carrying the torch of remembrance, and must ensure that the victims are never forgotten and that their legacy is maintained by educating others to always guard against prejudice and bigotry. We send our deepest condolences to Mr Willenberg’s family. His courage will forever be an inspiration and he will be greatly missed.”
For further information please contact Dr Dvir Abramovich on (03) 9272 5677
The Anti-Defamation Commission, founded in 1979, is Australia’s leading organization fighting anti-Semitism and all forms of hatred through educational programs that combat bigotry, prejudice and racism.
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