A Higher Call: Enemy Heroes of World War II

World War II historians Colin Heaton and Marilyn Walton join us to share remarkable stories of courage, mercy, and humanity on the part of those who fought on the other side, the Axis powers of Germany and Japan.

Stories include:

Captain Werner Hartenstein: On September 12, 1942, the German submarine U-156, commanded by Hartenstein, torpedoed the British RMS Laconia in the Atlantic. The Laconia, a military target, carried British troops, Italian POWs, and civilians, including women and children. Upon discovering Italian POWs and civilians among the survivors, Hartenstein defied the “No Rescue Order,” prohibiting aid to shipwreck victims. He ordered his crew to rescue many survivors, taking over 200 aboard U-156 and using towlines to connect to lifeboats. A Red Cross flag was raised, and he broadcast a message to Allied forces asking for help, promising not to attack rescue vessels. However, an American B-24 bomber attacked U-156, forcing Hartenstein to stop the rescue. Survivors were transferred to other German U-boats, and eventually some were collected by a Vichy French cruiser. U-156 resumed patrols, leaving many survivors in lifeboats, leading to the “Laconia Order,” which prohibited future rescue attempts. 

Hartenstein is remembered for his humanity in a brutal conflict. He prioritized rescuing women, children, and Italians, showing concern for all survivors. His actions stood out in a war marked by atrocities, offering a rare glimpse of empathy from a German officer. Hartenstein’s rescue effort symbolized the potential for humanity, even amid harsh realities of war. 

Hans-Joachim Marseille: The story of Marseille, known as the “Star of Africa,” is one of remarkable skill and complex morality. Born in 1919 in Berlin, Marseille was a talented pilot but had a rebellious nature. He gained fame during the Battle of Britain for his aerial combat skills and later matured under Captain Eduard Neumann in North Africa. Marseille developed tactics that earned respect and was known for his compassion, often risking his life to notify Allied forces about downed pilots. His defiance of Nazi commands and sympathy for Jews caused tension within the military. Despite his fierce skill that made him a propoganda figure, he subtly showed disdain for Nazi principles. Marseille died tragically at 22 in an accident, leaving a legacy as a complex, legendary figure.

Irv Baum

Saburo Sakai: Sakai was a renowned Japanese ace known for his honorable conduct. He refrained from unnecessary killings and spared enemies when possible. After the war, he disapproved of Japan’s wartime propaganda and sought accountability for war crimes, ultimately becoming a pariah in Japan but gaining respect from former enemies. His contributions to reconciliation were not fully acknowledged in his own country.

We’re grateful to UPMC for Life and Tobacco Free Adagio Health for sponsoring this event!