Program Description:

The non-profit organization “Operation Benjamin” searches for Jewish military personnel buried under Latin crosses in World War II American military cemeteries (all over the world), and seeks to correct the mistake. Working with the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC), they also offer comfort to the families of the fallen. In this presentation, Rachel Silverman explains the complicated process to change the headstone to a Jewish one, including the genealogical resources utilized in researching the soldiers. A special resource that is vital to the work will be highlighted.

Presenter Bio:

Rachel Silverman is a professional genealogist specializing in Jewish family research. She has particular expertise in online resources, which are steadily expanding as libraries and municipalities across the globe digitize their archival holdings. Her language skills in German, Czech, French, Spanish, Hebrew, and Latin prove invaluable in her research.  In addition to her work on Operation Benjamin, Rachel maintains a private research practice.  She is a member of the Jewish Genealogical Society of New York.