Jewish Military
Bernard Philipson
Gregg's father, Bernard Philipson, served in the 8th Armored Division during WWII, helping to liberate the Langenstein Concentration Camp.
1925-2009
Gregg's father, Sergeant Bernard Philipson, served with the U.S. Army’s 8th Armored Division and helped liberate the Langenstein Concentration camp. He fought in three major campaigns in the European Theatre of Operation: the Ardennes, Rhineland, and Central Europe. His uniforms were among Gregg's first acquisitions. For Gregg, collecting began as a family-focused initiative. Although the collection has expanded far beyond family, those deeply personal stories motivate him to continue aquiring, preserving, and sharing voices from Jewish cultural history.
Important Moments
1925
Bernard Philipson was born in Utica, NY
1944
His division was sent into action in France, Belgium, Holland, Germany, and Czechoslovakia.
1943
Entered the US Army 18 years old. He trained at Camp Polk, in Louisiana, and served with the 8th Armored Division’s 18th Tank Battalion.
1946
Philipson was honorably discharged with the rank of sergeant.
Highlights from the Collection
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Gregg’s father, Bernard Philipson, with his tank the “Blue Monday” serving with the 8th Armored Division.
Gregg's father, Bernard Philipson, standing in front of a tank somewhere in Europe.
Gregg’s father, Bernard Philipson, with his tank the “Blue Monday” serving with the 8th Armored Division.
Gregg's Father, Bernard Philipson and some of the men from the 8th Armored Division at the Arc de Triomphe, 1945.
Gregg's father, Bernard Philipson, playing baseball.
Gregg's father, Bernard Philipson, and friends standing in front of a half-track (an armored personnel carrier) with a group of children in Europe during WWII.
