Remarks at the Liberators/Caretakers Ceremony

Mauthausen, May 8, 2011

U.S.Ambassador William Eacho, Camp Survivors and WWII Veterans at Mauthausen Memorial Service

Distinguished veterans and guests: Good morning and welcome.

I am honored today to stand in your presence.

The Mauthausen-Gusen complex, the remains of the central camp which stand directly behind us, was a network of forced labor, torture, and mass murder. Sixty-six years ago, elements of the U.S. Army's 11th Armored and 26th Infantry Divisions liberated those victims who had managed to survive that evil. Soon after, soldiers of the 65th Infantry Division began providing medical care and ministering to those who still lived.

As part of our journey of remembrance, and before joining the larger ceremony above, we gather at this spot to honor those Americans who liberated Mauthausen and cared for its victims. We have the distinct privilege of being in the presence of some of those veterans today. On behalf of the United States Government, our Embassy and our fellow citizens, we salute your service. As the son of parents who both served in uniform in World War II, I am deeply honored.

As the U.S. Ambassador, I interact daily with the people of a peaceful, prosperous and democratic Austria. This was made possible through the sacrifices of the allied soldiers, sailors, and airmen of World War II. As part of the forces that defeated the Third Reich, you helped preserve western civilization. We, and all generations to follow, remain forever in your debt.

Sadly there are those who forget, or are somehow unaware, of how the Nazis rose to power, ignited a global war, and murdered millions - all based on a perverted racial ideology. That is why this yearly journey, this remembrance of the atrocities committed here, remains a sacred duty. On this day we remember the murdered, we honor the survivors, and we reaffirm our commitment to prevent such orchestrated evil from ever happening again.

Every year we will continue to honor the soldiers who liberated Mauthausen, especially those Americans who join us on this solemn ground. We can never thank you enough for your service to your fellow man, your country, and the world.

May God bless you all.