Father’s Day Tribute: A WWII Dad’s Story

The small box that opened a world of memories.

❤️ This Father's Day, I’d love to share a story about my dad and his time during World War II. My father was a man of many hidden secrets, yet he was always present, raising Jesse and me with quiet strength and unwavering love. If he were here today, I know he would understand our journey and support our quest. Our stories may differ, but they share uncanny similarities that continue to connect us.

Not long ago, I discovered a small box filled with his WWII memorabilia. According to his Military History, his civilian occupation was listed as “Manager, Production.” He was inducted on June 28, 1943, and began active service on July 12 of that year. On December 6, 1943, he graduated from Lawson General Hospital in Atlanta, Georgia, with the designation of Medical Technician (MOS 409).

Among the medals he received were the European-African-Middle Eastern Service Medal, the Good Conduct Medal, and the Americanism-Patriotism Medal. He was honorably discharged on September 8, 1945, at Fort Lewis, Washington.

We grew up in a home without guns. My father firmly believed that weapons belonged on the battlefield, not in civilian life. Yet he was deeply interested in military history and culture. He loved watching military films like The Great Escape, The Alamo, Bridge on the River Kwai, and anything starring John Wayne. He also enjoyed visiting West Point and various Army bases across the country.

Among my father's keepsakes was a small Bible—the Jewish Holy Scripture—titled The Army of the United States. Inside the front cover, he had written a message that gave me chills:

"Presented to PFC Manuel Hochberg, June 20, 1944. I am aboard the SS Argentina en route to the European Theatre of Operations. New York to Liverpool, England."

He served with the 104th Field Artillery. My father never spoke much about his experiences in Europe, except to mention his role in medical care. What he never fully shared was that, instead of assisting, he was performing amputations to save lives—work that must have left lasting emotional scars.

Also in the box was a German Mark with the words "Captured Nazi 1945" written on it. I later learned that the war officially ended on May 8, 1945, and my father returned home aboard the RMS Queen Mary, arriving on June 20, 1945. He was honorably discharged as Sergeant Manuel Hochberg.

A Quiet Hero's Legacy

On this Father's Day, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to all the fathers and grandfathers who serve or have served in our military. Today is a time to honor their dedication to protecting our country, raising strong families, and inspiring the next generation to serve. God bless America.

Photo taken Prospect Park, Brooklyn, N.Y.