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‘Hermann’: The photo that keeps a WWII soldier’s memory alive

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RAVENA — On Sunday, April 10, at 2 p.m., the Ravena Coeymans Historical Society is pleased to welcome Zachary Clouse, of Coeymans, a 2016 Historical Society scholarship winner and 2021 graduate of Siena College, who will present a program on his documentary short film “Herrmann.”

In 2021, Clouse’s documentary won Audience Choice Best Picture and Best Documentary at the 2021 Catskill International Film Festival.

The film chronicles the story of Theodore Herrmann, a son of German immigrants who in 1941 left the small village of Ravena to help defeat fascism. In his four years of service, Herrmann saw grueling combat against the German army, and his image was shared across the country through an Associated Press photograph.

In the 75 years since his death, however, his name has been lost to time. Clouse will discuss Herrmann’s life, how he rediscovered his once-buried story, and the process of sharing through film this hero’s service.

Zachary Clouse grew up fascinated with history, particularly the military history of World War II, having members of his family serve and survive. Their service fueled his passion.

Having missed the opportunity to ask family members of their service, Clouse wanted to capture and preserve those veteran stories before the soldiers of the “Greatest Generation” have gone.

In addition to producing “Herrmann,” Clouse is currently working on a long-running documentary project called “Bridged with Blood” about the role of U.S. Army Combat Engineers during World War II. His work can be followed on Instagram @VestigeMedia.

Please join in the program, open to the public, that will be held in the museum on 15 Mountain Road, Ravena.

Because of limited space, the Historical Society respectfully requires everyone who attends to wear masks.

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