Henry Wittenberg

Henry Wittenberg, born on September eighteenth, nineteen eighteen, was a remarkable figure in the world of freestyle wrestling. An American Olympic champion, he made history by winning two Olympic medals in this sport, first in nineteen forty-eight and again in nineteen fifty-two. This achievement marked him as the first American wrestler to earn Olympic medals since nineteen oh eight, solidifying his legacy in the wrestling community.

Wittenberg's journey was not solely defined by his athletic prowess. After serving in the Army during the early nineteen forties, he transitioned into a career as a New York City Police Officer. His dedication to public service earned him commendations, and he continued to serve in this capacity until around nineteen fifty-four.

In addition to his law enforcement career, Wittenberg was deeply involved in the wrestling community as a coach and educator. From nineteen sixty-seven to nineteen seventy-nine, he served as an instructor and college wrestling coach at Yeshiva University and City College of New York. His influence extended beyond the classroom, as he played a significant role in organizing the Maccabiah Games and served as an American Olympic coach during the nineteen sixty-eight games in Mexico City.