Special Exhibitions

Ours to Fight For: American Jews in the Second World War

February 19, 2012–June 17, 2012

 

 

Ours to Fight For explores and celebrates the achievements of Jewish men and women who were part of the American war effort on and off of the battlefield. In their own voices and through their artifacts, letters, and photographs the “Greatest Generation” tells the stories of what the war was like for all its participants, and for Jews in particular. Approximately 500,000 Jews served in all branches of the U.S. armed forces during the war and 52,000 were decorated for bravery. Interactive stations also allow visitors to explore the experiences of other groups who served in the military during World War II, including African Americans, Japanese Americans, Chinese Americans, Native Americans, and Latinos. Ours To Fight For brings to life the actions and feelings of these courageous young men and women ‐ their discomfort, camaraderie, faith, fear, horror, and deep meaning they found in getting the job done.

 

The exhibition features personal quotes, letters, photos, video testimonies and period artifacts; a WWII‐era “Home Front Theater” where visitors can view archival footage of American soldiers liberating Europe; and recognition of local veterans on the Wall of Honor.

 

Thank you to all who have shared photos of their loved ones to be featured on our Wall of Honor. We have now reached capacity and are proud to honor these almost 400 Midwestern veterans.

Ours to Fight For: American Jews in the Second World War was created and is circulated by the Museum of Jewish Heritage—A Living Memorial to the Holocaust, New York.

Major funding for this exhibition was generously provided by Jack and Susan Rudin and Family in memory of Lewis Rudin; by Irving Schneider in memory of his friend, Lewis Rudin; and by Irving and June Paler in memory of June's father, Duncan Robertson, who fought for justice in both World Wars. Additional support provided by Verizon Foundation and EveryoneSmile.com.

 

The lead sponsor for special exhibitions at the Illinois Holocaust Museum & Education Center is the Golder Family Foundation.
Local support for the presentation of Ours to Fight For was provided by Steve and Maria Quinlan Farber, in honor of Burton Farber.

 

Photo >

1st Lt Meyer J. Birnbaum at his brother’s grave, Blosville, France, June 26, 1944.
Albert Birnbaum died in battle after the D-Day invasion at Utah Beach.
Collection of Meyer J. Birnbaum.