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March 31, 2025 36 mins

Join Ty Bruner as he delves into the compelling life of Elfreida Bruce, a now 95-year-old woman who grew up in Freiburg, Germany, during World War II under the shadow of the Third Reich.

As an impressionable 10-year-old, Elfriede looked upon Hitler as a savior and hero while her parents remained adamantly opposed to his quest for global conquest.  As a former member of the Hitler Youth, Elfreida's story offers a unique window into the tumultuous era, shaped by war, ideological indoctrination, and a family in conflict.

In this episode, Elfreida shares her childhood experiences, revealing a personal journey of belief, a community caught in the crossfire, and the tension between loyalty and doubt. With family resistance to the regime and personal encounters that raise questions about identity and morality, her narrative illustrates the complexities of growing up in a time of conflict and propaganda.

As Elfreida reflects on the past, listeners are invited to ponder the lifelong struggle of coming to terms with history and the impact of wartime memories on personal beliefs. This poignant episode explores the interplay of memory, identity, and the enduring desire for a world where kindness prevails over division. Listen in for a conversation that challenges perceptions, unearths uncomfortable truths, and leaves you with profound questions about the echoes of history in today's world. Learn more about The People We Meet Podcast and Ty Bruner at www.thepeoplewemeetpodcast.com

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