A Pacifist at Iwo Jima

“Lee Mandel traces the unique and well-documented story of Rabbi Roland Gittelsohn, grandson of an Orthodox rabbi from Lithuania who became one of the most famous (Reform) US rabbis by the end of World War II. Originally a pacifist, Gittelsohn found himself changed by the totalitarian threats of the late 1930s. He volunteered to serve during World War II as a military chaplain, becoming the first Jewish chaplain in the United States Marines. He survived the famous battle of Iwo Jima and numerous antisemitic incidents to thrive after World War II. A moving blend of social and military history.”—Richard Breitman, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, American University, author of The Berlin Mission: The American Who Resisted Nazi Germany from Within
“Rabbi Gittelsohn’s journey as told by this amazing work should inspire everyone, regardless of faith or politics to dedicate themselves to service to others!!”—Rabbi Irving A. Elson, Capt, USN (Ret), director, JWB Jewish Chaplains Council
“Lee Mandel has written a compelling portrait of Rabbi Roland Gittelsohn, the values that informed him, the events that transformed him and the moment–the Battle for Iwo Jima–that tested him and revealed his greatness. He understood the man and his faith. His portrait of the battle for Iwo Jima his compelling and he captures the struggles of a chaplain to support the Marines in the fiercest moments of battle. One comes away deeply impressed, profoundly moved, with a sense of gratitude not only for Gittelsohn’s brilliance and bravery but for Mandel’s ability to tell this most compelling story. The work is more important today than ever as patriotism is being trivialized and politicized and when so few understand the valor of the greatest generation as they faced their most difficult battle.”—Michael Berenbaum, professor of Jewish Studies, American Jewish University, Los Angeles, California
“Roland Gittelsohn led an extraordinary life as a rabbi, pacifist, and World War II chaplain. Lee Mandel’s masterful biography does justice to the man, his beliefs, and his legacy.”—Irwin F. Gellman, author of The President and the Apprentice and Campaign of the Century.