Walter Frankenstein, who passed away at 100 in Stockholm, lived through a harrowing chapter of history as a Jewish man in Nazi Berlin. For over two years, he and his family were among the 6,500 Jews, dubbed "human U-boats," who evaded capture by constantly relocating to find safety in bombed buildings, abandoned cars, and even subway stations repurposed as shelters.
In 1944, during a tense moment on a train, a military policeman requested his identification. In a pinch, Walter pretended to be a forced laborer, but when pressed, he acknowledged being Jewish, a revelation that could have led to his arrest. Miraculously, the officer decided to let him go, stating, "Get lost. I’m not looking for Jews; I’m looking for deserters," highlighting the perilous existence these hidden Jews endured.
Scholars estimate that the average U-boat changed hiding spots multiple times to dodge air raids and suspicious neighbors. Walter was one of about 1,700 such survivors. He lived in Stockholm from 1956 onward and was honored with Germany's Order of Merit before passing away. His story serves as a poignant reminder of resilience amidst darkness.
