Paul Grüninger

Paul Grüninger, born on October 27, 1891, in Switzerland, was a dedicated police officer and a compassionate individual who made a significant impact during a dark chapter in history. As a police commander in St. Gallen, he demonstrated remarkable courage and integrity in the face of adversity.

In the wake of the Austrian Anschluss, Grüninger took it upon himself to save approximately three thousand six hundred Jewish refugees. He employed creative means, such as backdating visas and falsifying documents, to allow these individuals to enter Switzerland when legal avenues were still available. His actions not only showcased his commitment to humanity but also placed him at great personal risk.

Despite his noble efforts, Grüninger faced severe consequences for his actions. He was dismissed from the police force, convicted of official misconduct, and fined three hundred Swiss francs. The repercussions of his bravery left him without a pension, and he ultimately lived in poverty until his death in 1972.

In recognition of his selfless deeds, Grüninger was honored as one of the Righteous Among the Nations by the Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial foundation in 1971. His legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the impact one individual can have in the fight against injustice.