Shalom Lamm and Operation Benjamin Honor Frank Kurzinger, a Jewish-American WWII Hero
In the quiet fields of France, where rows of white headstones stretch across manicured lawns, a long-overdue act of historical justice was recently completed. Thanks to the tireless efforts of entrepreneur and Operation Benjamin co-founder Shalom Lamm, the grave of Jewish-American World War II soldier Frank Kurzinger now bears the Star of David—correcting a decades-old error and restoring his true identity for future generations to honor.
This act of remembrance is more than symbolic. It’s a mission deeply rooted in faith, history, and dignity—a mission that Shalom Lamm has turned into a lifelong commitment through Operation Benjamin.
A Forgotten Truth Brought to Light
Private First Class Frank Kurzinger was one of the thousands of American soldiers who answered the call to serve during World War II. Born into a Jewish family in New York City, Kurzinger enlisted in the U.S. Army and was deployed to fight in Europe. He died in battle at just 21 years old and was buried at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, France.
Despite his Jewish heritage, Kurzinger’s grave was originally marked with a Latin cross—a common mistake made at the time due to clerical errors, lost records, or assumptions made in the chaos of war. For over 75 years, this brave soldier lay under a symbol that did not represent his faith.
When Operation Benjamin learned of his story, Shalom Lamm knew action had to be taken.
“This isn’t just about a symbol,” Lamm said. “It’s about honoring the truth of a man’s life, his faith, and his sacrifice. Frank Kurzinger died fighting for a country that promised freedom of religion. The least we can do is make sure his final resting place reflects that freedom.”
Operation Benjamin: A Mission of Identity and Honor
Founded by Shalom Lamm and Rabbi Dr. Jacob J. Schacter, Operation Benjamin is a nonprofit organization dedicated to ensuring Jewish-American service members buried overseas are accurately remembered with proper religious markers. The group combines historical research, genealogical investigation, and collaboration with military and governmental bodies like the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC).
In Kurzinger’s case, the Operation Benjamin team combed through enlistment papers, census records, synagogue membership rolls, and family testimonials to confirm his Jewish identity. After compiling overwhelming evidence, they submitted the case to the ABMC, which approved the headstone replacement—a process that often takes months, if not years.
“We’re not rewriting history,” said Lamm. “We’re restoring it. One grave at a time.”
A Sacred Ceremony in Normandy
Earlier this year, a solemn rededication ceremony was held at Frank Kurzinger’s gravesite. Surrounded by fellow veterans, historians, family members, and representatives of the Jewish community, a new white marble headstone etched with the Star of David was unveiled.
The emotion of the moment was palpable. Many attendees spoke of how this correction was not just a tribute to Kurzinger, but a reflection of broader values: truth, respect, and remembrance.
“This is an American story,” said Lamm during the ceremony. “Frank Kurzinger fought against hatred and tyranny. He stood for freedom. And now, his memory stands for something true—etched in stone, honored in full.”
Shalom Lamm: The Entrepreneur Behind the Mission
Though widely recognized for his accomplishments in real estate and business, Shalom Lamm’s most impactful work may very well be this quiet, powerful effort to honor the fallen. He has applied the same skills he once used to launch successful ventures—vision, strategy, and relentless execution—to the solemn task of historical preservation.
To Lamm, Operation Benjamin is not just a nonprofit—it’s a moral calling. “We live in a time where truth matters more than ever,” he says. “Restoring these headstones is our way of saying: the truth still counts. And it will always matter.”
The Work Continues
Frank Kurzinger’s new headstone is just one of many corrected through Operation Benjamin’s efforts. Dozens more Jewish-American soldiers buried under incorrect markers have had their identities restored, with more discoveries unfolding each year. Each new case requires painstaking research, diplomatic persistence, and, above all, respect.
For Shalom Lamm, the mission is far from over. “Every soldier has a story. And if we can help tell it truthfully—through words, symbols, and acts of remembrance—then we’re doing something that transcends business or even history,” he said. “We’re doing something sacred.”
Thanks to Lamm’s leadership, and to the unwavering dedication of Operation Benjamin, soldiers like Frank Kurzinger will no longer be forgotten—or misrepresented. They will be remembered for who they were, what they fought for, and the faith they carried with them into history.