German Jewish teen escapes Nazis, joins intelligence unit at D-Day, uncovers hidden work.
Victor Brombert, a renowned comparative literature professor who recently passed away at the age of 101, had a fascinating secret past as a member of a covert American intelligence program during World War II. This program, known as the Ritchie Boys, consisted of individuals with foreign language skills who gathered crucial battlefield intelligence in Europe. Many of its members, including Professor Brombert, were Jewish refugees who had fled from fascism.
The Ritchie Boys received their training at Camp Ritchie in Maryland, and their contributions to the war effort were largely unrecognized until the release of the documentary “The Ritchie Boys” in 2004. This film shed light on the group’s significant role in providing intelligence for the United States during major European battles, such as D-Day, the liberation of Paris, and the Battle of the Bulge. Professor Brombert was a key figure in the documentary and subsequently gained widespread recognition for his wartime service.
Prior to his involvement with the Ritchie Boys, Professor Brombert was known for his scholarly work in intellectual history at Princeton and Yale University. He was a regular contributor to The New York Times Book Review, offering insights on French culture from the 1960s to the late ’90s. Additionally, he authored several books focusing on literary themes, including studies on the antihero and the intellectual hero, as well as critical analyses of renowned authors like Stendhal, Flaubert, and Victor Hugo.
In conclusion, Victor Brombert’s remarkable journey from a respected academic to a covert intelligence operative highlights the diverse experiences of individuals who played pivotal roles in shaping history. His legacy as a Ritchie Boy and his scholarly contributions in the field of comparative literature will continue to inspire future generations.
Source: The NY Times
