The Jewish community in Sighet, Hungary was oblivious of the danger posed by the ascension of the Nazi to power. Although they heard horror stories from beyond their region, of the atrocities meted against Jews. The Jews of Sighet chose to ignore these warnings until it was too late. Elie and his family resided in Sighet until the Hungarian police handed them over to the Gestapo, who transported them together with the other Jews to concentration camps.
Transport was arranged for the Jews who traveled from Sighet to Kaschau then to Auschwitz and finally to Birkenau, not sure of what awaited them at the camp. On arrival, the men were separated from the women. This would be the last time Elie saw his mother and sister, Tzipora. Eight words spoken by an SS officer separated Elie’s family forever.
An SS came toward us wielding a club. He commanded: "Men to the left! Women to the right!" Eight words spoken quietly, indifferently, without emotion. Eight simple, short words.
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