Honoring Holocaust Survivors on the 81st Anniversary of the End of WWII

Ambassador Schneebauer with Holocaust Survivors and their families on May 6 at the Austrian Residence.

On May 6, 2026, to mark the 81st anniversary of the end of World War II this week, Ambassador Schneebauer hosted Holocaust survivors and their families for a luncheon at the Austrian Residence. The survivors shared stories about their experiences during the war, having to flee the National Socialist regime in Austria and Germany under tragic circumstances, and about how they all built new lives in the United States.

Their voices remain both a warning and a call to action — reminding us to protect democracy, defend freedom, and stand firmly against antisemitism, Holocaust denial, and hatred in all its forms.

Young Austrian memorial servant volunteers (Gedenkdiener), who serve currently at the Capitol Jewish Museum and U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum, were also invited to take part in the luncheon. Their service helps keep the memory of the Holocaust alive.