Under the SS Shadow

by Traugott; Stephens Vogel

Mass market paperback by Bantam, 1978. The true story of a Hitler youth who was tortured under the Swastika, and saved by the Cross. 179 pp

Genres: History, Nonfiction, Memoir, World War II, Christian, Holocaust

179 pages, Mass Market Paperback

First published January 1, 1977

Reviews

[Yibbie · Rating 4 out of 5]

What can replace a lost ideology? How far does loyalty tie a person to tradition? Can bitterness and hate be overcome? Traugott had to answer all of these. He found the answer and tells his story so well that they can become your answers as well.

[Ellen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Raised by a steadfast, patriotic SS officer and an enthusiastic member of the Hitler Youth himself, Traugott has long since forgotten the meaning behind his name (trust God). After all, it is simply a family name passed down through the generations. Lutheran only in name, his family follows the suggestion of Hitler himself, to become "gottglaubig" and immerse themselves in the ancient Germanic myths instead. The end result is that Traugott learns to trust in himself in the midst of war, loss, and grief. This leaves him angry, betrayed, and full of resentment against the Allies. Through a Youth for Christ rally he learns the true meaning behind his name and learns to work under a more powerful symbol.

This true story looks at the pain caused by war and the healing that can come through Christ. I found Mr. Vogel's perspective interesting. I didn't consider how cultural barriers could present a roadblock for him in hearing the gospel. I did question some of the doctrine presented in terms of the way we are saved and the nature of baptism, but the story itself was a good one. With the angels, I praise Him for rescuing another soul from darkness!

[Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this book and can highly recommend it to youth and adults. Traugott Vogel was the son of as SS major. He was very proud of his father in his snapping black uniform and jackboots. He admired and loved him and wanted to be just like him. He also was a proud member of the Hitler Youth. It was such fun to go and play was games and learn all about the greatness of Hitler, the Nazi's and Germany. Then his father was shot and killed and things changed. They were poor. But by some miracle he was found by a Christian American and urged to come to their youth meetings. what happened was a beautiful story of a young Nazi who becaoe a Chriatian and a soldier for Christ. Great read.

[Mary Mcleod · Rating 5 out of 5]

Great book.

This is a very uplifting book that compelled me to not stop reading it. The story is very sad and then you see where the story teller finds Christ and the rest is exciting and change the of heart from angry to rejoicing in his Salvation.

[Beverly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Incredible testimony that could have been written more skillfully and effectively.

[Herb · Rating 4 out of 5]

Under the SS Shadow by Traugott Vogel is an inspiring biography outlining the life-changing events surrounding the author. Both heart wrenching and heart warming it shows how God can change a life and then use the willing believer in amazing ways. I could see God's hand in every event as Traugott progressed in his life.

The historical events and his perspective are enlightening and poignant. Traugott's forgiveness for the men that killed his father was an especially emotional moment in the book.

I would highly recommend this as a great faith-building/faith-finding book in your library.

[Kathleen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Not very well written/structured, but the story is interesting and inspiring.

[Cee Martinez · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting but leaves a lot unsaid

It was easy to read this book in one day. It is the true story of a man who served as a Hitler Youth and then his life after the war. It was interesting to read because of the historical context but I felt it hard to empathize with even the largest tragedy the author went through in comparison with the countries and people who suffered as a result of the Nazis and SS. The voice of the author as a child and youth was incredibly self centered and without regard for anyone else. The last part of the book is about forgiveness and redemption and that resonated with me a bit more. I can't say I recommend this book.

[Carrie Allen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Excellent!

[Lisa Beebe]

Fabulous read. Gave me lots of insight to those struggling while living in Germany/Austria during WWII.

[Carrie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very inspiring story! It's interesting to be able to read a book from a different perspective than we normally see.

[Amy Griffith · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very good book about WWII. Told from an unusual point of view. Also a missionary autobiography.

[Peyton · Rating 5 out of 5]

WOW what a powerful testimony for Christ!!!;)