Waldheim Issue, Austria’s Past

The myth of Austria and Kurt Waldheim:

Far from being invaded and subjugated by Germany during World War II, Austria welcomed the Nazis. In fact, Austria produced some very renowned personalities in Hitler, Eichmann, Kaltenbrunner, Seyss-Inquart, and Waldheim. So enamored were the Austrians of acceptance into the German SS, that it gave its “finest sons” to Deutschland.

History reveals just how efficient were these “sons” in devastating Europe, bringing on an avalanche of cruelty, the scope of which is simply indescribable.

No, Austria was certainly no victim of the Nazis. To the contrary, Austria held a “special relationship” with Germany, and gave the latter its full support.

And now, after holding the post of secretary-general of the United Nations for 11 years, Kurt Waldheim, nominated for the presidency of his native Austria, faces charges of complicity in German war crimes: direct involvement in the deportation to death camps of thousands of Jewish innocents from the Balkans and Greece. Waldheim disclaims his involvement but conceals his activities during this period.

It is inconceivable that such a scheming conniver would ever be considered for the post of secretary-general of the U.N. What does this appointment reveal as to the virtues of that body?

And what about the integrity of that “victim of the Nazis,” Austria, for considering an alleged war criminal as its president.

SHEL SCHORR

Malibu