From Hitler Youth to American Soldier ─ A Prisoner of Hope

Born in a small fishing village in East Prussia, Germany, in 1933, Herb Flemming grew up under Hitler's regime, the son of devout Christian parents, third in a family of nine children. Forced to join the Hitler Youth, Herb's childhood was a contrast between the good at home and the evil all around him. From Gestapo shooting to Tom Sawyer-like boyhood adventures, from fleeing as a refugee to immigrating to the United States, and finally returning to Germany as a soldier in the US Army, Herb learned of God's love and the power of prayer.

After returning to America at the end of his military service, Herb and his wife, Frieda, moved to New York City, where they started a family. The Flemmings now live in West Virginia and enjoy visiting with their grandchildren whenever possible. Herb has recently returned to his former home in the small village of Rothenen, in East Prussia, now a part of Russia, only to find that not a single street or building remains. Herb is grateful to God for the miracle of His deliverance and protection, and his life is still today a powerful testimony that God answers prayer.