I don't like to speak ill of the dead, but in this case I'll make an exception. Ardent Nazi, Kurt Waldheim, died yesterday at the age of 88. His most notable posts were as Secretary-General of the United Nations, President of Austria, and Nazi intelligence officer in the Balkans.
Many would argue that he was a member of the Wehrmacht, and no Nazi. However, evidence to the contrary, shows this not to be the truth.
He actively supported the Germans and Croats in their suppression of the Bosnians, and was complicit in the massacre at Kozara in 1942. He was also involved in massacres against the Yugoslavs and Greeks in 1943-44; particularly with reference to massacres at Kalavrita, Klissura, Distomo and Chortiatis. He is also thought to have been involved with the torture and execution of British troops under Hitler's 'Commando Order'.
What is not beyond doubt was his direct involvement in the deportation of the Greek Jews to the concentration camps and his anti-Israeli stance.
Needless to say, his passing will see no mourning for him in my house. Indeed, it is unbelievable that a Nazi with his record could be allowed to gain high office and live into old age with no recourse. Such is the world of international politics!
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2 comments:
Mark
It is interesting to note that we failed to see the difference between the republican guard and the Iraqi army. We should have shot the first and retrained the second. This would have gone a long way to stability.
Ben,
Good point of course. After WWII, both West Germany and Japan were under occupation, in conjunction with civilian authorities and defence forces who must have worked for the 3rd Reich. It was a matter of common-sense and necessity.
Best wishes,
Mark
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