Ten names are etched in stone here at the Opfer des Faschismus War memorial. This memorial stands as a solemn reminder of resistance against the Nazi regime. It honors those who bravely stood against oppression.
The Opfer des Faschismus memorial is located at Brünner Straße 57A. It stands at the corner of Katsushikastraße, within the grounds of the former Lokomotivfabrik Floridsdorf. The Betriebsrat of the Wiener Lokomotivfabrik commissioned it. It was dedicated on December 29, 1949.
Let’s observe the memorial’s design. A stone obelisk rises from a stone base. The words “Opfer des Faschismus” are inscribed on the obelisk. Above this inscription, a burning torch symbolizes eternal vigilance. The base lists the names of ten resistance fighters. The inscription “Nie vergessen!” concludes the tribute. This translates to “Never forget!”
Gustav Wegerer and Rosa Jochmann attended the unveiling. Wegerer was a communist and former Buchenwald concentration camp prisoner. Jochmann was a resistance fighter and social democratic politician. Their presence underscores the diverse coalition against fascism.
The Opfer des Faschismus War memorial underwent renovations in 1988. The original memorial was dismantled. It was comprehensively renovated and altered. The renovated memorial lacks portrait medallions. Some believe it to be a new creation. Vice Mayor Hans Mayr inaugurated the renovated memorial on July 25, 1988. J. Höller oversaw the renovation.
Now, consider the names inscribed. They represent ordinary people who chose extraordinary courage. Ferdinand Buchmann resisted. Wilhelm Fuhry resisted. Karl Gries resisted. Franz Maresch resisted. Ferdinand Oppitz resisted. Franz Pleschkou resisted. Johann Schiktanz resisted. Johann Suppinger resisted. Narziß Vavra resisted. Hans Weber resisted. Each name represents a life sacrificed for freedom.
These individuals faced persecution for their beliefs. Some were even murdered by the regime. Their stories remind us of the high cost of freedom. The Opfer des Faschismus War memorial serves as a warning against repeating history’s darkest chapters.
Pause here and reflect. The Opfer des Faschismus War memorial embodies Vienna’s commitment to remembrance. It stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Let us carry their memory forward. Let their sacrifices inspire us to stand against injustice.