On June 22, 1941, the German military invaded the Soviet Union in the largest military assault in history code named Operation Barbarossa, with four elite SS mobile killing units called Einsatzgruppen. Come discover the critical role that these units played in the evolution of the Nazi-directed genocide and why this "Holocaust by Bullets" led directly to the opening of extermination camps.

1:30 refreshments
2:00 program

Free for members, included in regular admission for non-members.

About the Speaker:

Since earning a PhD in History from Iowa State University in 1997, Robinson Yost has taught a variety of history courses at Kirkwood Community College after being hired full-time in 2000. He has taught the Holocaust & Genocide course there for almost 20 years. Also, Dr. Yost has visited several sites in Germany, Poland, Italy, and the Czech Republic, including the first concentration camp (Dachau), the site of the annual Nazi Party Rallies (Nuremberg), the largest transit camp (Terezin), and the largest & deadliest extermination camp (Auschwitz-Birkenau).

This is the last day to view Violins of Hope, on display in our 1st floor gallery. This exhibition includes violins connected to Jewish musicians who were impacted by the Holocaust. Many lives were spared because of their musical skills, which the Nazis desired to provide music in the concentration camps. For many people, the violin was their key to survival. Visitors are encouraged to view the exhibition before or after the program.

☕️ BYOM!
Guests are welcome to bring their own mugs if they wish. Disposable cups are provided, but help us reduce waste and bring a favorite mug!

Photography Policy: By responding to this event, you are giving your consent for the German American Heritage Center and Museum to use any photographs taken of you during the program for marketing purposes. We appreciate your support in helping us share the impact of our events with a wider community audience.

Contact the host of Kaffee und Kuchen: The Holocaust by Bullets: The Twisted Path to Auschwitz