To: The Citizens of Kassel, Germany
We will soon be celebrating 75 years since the end of World War II. My father, whose name is Charles R. Stewart, served in the 29th Artillery Division during that war. Unfortunately, he died in 1991. He served because he loved his country, believed in peace for all and was proud of where he was from. As my dad approached the city of
Kassel on June 21, 1945, he came upon a German fellow sitting along the side of the road. The fellow handed my dad a book about the history of the city of Kassel. It only seems likely that this fellow was also proud of his country, happy to see
our soldiers fighting for peace and also very proud of where he was from.
We have had this book in my family for the past 75 years. I truly believe that as we celebrate 75 years since the end of World War II, that it’s time to return this book to its rightful owners and the citizens of Kassel, Germany.
I believe that my father would be so happy to see that you received this book back and that this is the right thing to do. Let us all pray that no one, both German and American soldiers, ever have to witness what they witnessed during this terrible war. For just one split second, this German fellow sitting on the side of the road demonstrated both love for his country, his city and fellowship with those he didn’t even know. We should all learn from this.
I hope you received this as a token of love and good blessings to the citizens of Kassel, and that you display this where all can see.
Respectfully,
Robert W. Stewart
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Dear Mr. Stewart,
Thank you so much for the book which arrived a few days ago. After talking with the City Hall it was decided to place it in the collection of the City Museum Kassel. We are very happy for this object, as it shows how human connection and understanding can be found in the worst of times. Thank you and your family for caring for the book for such a long time!
Best regards,
Christina
