A Century of Courage: Holocaust Survivor Honored with War Medals on 100th Birthday

…By Gift BADEWO for TDPel Media.

This heartwarming event not only pays tribute to her bravery during the second world war but also symbolizes our collective responsibility to recognize and appreciate the contributions of those who fought for freedom.

Holocaust survivor Henny Franks holds her war medals as she celebrates her 100th birthday at the Jewish Care Holocaust Survivors’ Centre (James Manning/PA) / PA Wire

After landing in the UK, Henny was eager to lend a hand in the war effort and volunteered for the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS)—the female branch of the British Army—as a truck driver at a munitions factory.

Holocaust survivor Henny Franks is presented with her war medals by Dan Fox, chair of AJEX, as she celebrates her 100th birthday at the Jewish Care Holocaust Survivors’ Centre, north west London (PA/James Manning)

National chair of AJEX JMA, Dan Fox, had the honor of surprising Henny at her birthday celebration.

“They help us remember what veterans went through and take pride in what they did.”

Henny expressed her delight at finally receiving the medals, describing her emotional state as “overcome with joy”.

The day, she said, had been “amazing”.