What it’s about:
The compelling narrative of Lieutenant Colonel Robert Rosenthal unfolds in the Apple TV+ miniseries, “Masters of the Air,” shedding light on a Jewish American hero’s unparalleled valor during World War II. The series, culminating in its gripping finale, brings to the forefront Rosenthal’s dramatic survival and his emotional encounter with the traces of his Jewish heritage in a desolate concentration camp.
Why it matters:
Rosenthal’s story is a testament to the immense contribution of Jewish soldiers in the fight against tyranny and oppression during World War II. His tale embodies the strength found in one’s identity and the universal struggle against fascism. With executive production by esteemed figures Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, “Masters of the Air” not only preserves the historical significance of Jewish fighters but also serves as a crucial reminder of the atrocities that must never be forgotten.
The Person Behind the Legend:
Born into a Jewish family in Brooklyn, Rosenthal was not just a soldier; he was a symbol of resistance against injustice. Without hesitation, he enlisted in the military following the attack on Pearl Harbor, demonstrating early on his resilience and commitment to the cause. Over the course of the war, he soared above and beyond the call of duty, participating in 52 combat missions, a testament to his bravery and determination.
His outstanding service earned him the nation’s highest honors, but it was his actions after the war that further solidified his heroism. As a key figure in the prosecution at the Nuremberg trials, Rosenthal dedicated himself to seeking justice for the victims of the Holocaust, an effort that saw him interrogate prominent Nazi leaders.
Not Just a Soldier, but a Guardian of Memory:
The series paints a vivid picture of the morale and human spirit that Rosenthal represented. In a poignant scene set in the Zabikowo concentration camp, the depth of his character is revealed through his silent tribute to his murdered brethren, a powerful reminder of the war’s profound Jewish dimension. This emotional reckoning with his identity underscores the broader Jewish struggle for survival and the vital importance of remembrance.
The finale’s nod to “Palestina” echoes not just the hope for a safe haven for Jewish survivors but also Rosenthal’s unyielding commitment to safeguarding the future of Jewish people everywhere. His parting words, “Go with God,” spoken in Yiddish to a fellow refugee, encapsulate a message of hope and solidarity that transcends personal history.
An Inspiring Representation:
After more than a decade in development, “Masters of the Air,” alongside its companion documentary, received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of World War II battles and the intricate lives of those who fought them. The dedication of Spielberg, Hanks, and Orloff in bringing Rosenthal’s extraordinary heroism to the screen is a remarkable achievement that honors both the man and the symbol he has become.
Rosenthal’s narrative, sculpted through the artistry of film, prompts a reevaluation of the enormity of individual contributions to humanity’s darkest times and the everlasting impact of preserving their stories. His journey, fraught with peril but driven by an unwavering ethics and Jewish identity, offers profound lessons in duty, resilience, and the enduring power of compassion.
In Memory:
Robert Rosenthal’s legacy, immortalized through “Masters of the Air,” serves as a beacon for future generations to comprehend the breadth of Jewish bravery and its pivotal role in shaping history. His life, marked by unparalleled bravery in the face of evil, continues to inspire awe and respect, wielding the power to educate and galvanize individuals worldwide in the timeless struggle against hate and discrimination.
“Masters of the Air” goes beyond recounting history; it breathes life into a hero’s memory, ensuring his indomitable spirit and the values he stood for are eternally enshrined in our collective consciousness. Rosenthal’s story, rich with courage, heartache, and ultimate conviction, reverberates as a stark reminder of the past and a hopeful guide for a humane and just future.
This story was first published on jpost.com.