Luisa Neubauer reveals Nazi-era history of great-grandfather

Climate activist Luisa Neubauer has disclosed details regarding the Nazi-era history of her great-grandfather, Alwin Siegfried Fürchtegott Reemtsma. Through a specialized Nazi-era search engine, Neubauer uncovered more than 200 records documenting his rise within the SS hierarchy.

Reemtsma, a former partner in the Hamburg-based Reemtsma cigarette empire, joined the NSDAP in 1937. Records indicate he rose through various ranks, eventually reaching the position of Standartenführer, one of the highest officer ranks. Neubauer noted that he was honored at least three times for his service.

Crucially, Neubauer discovered that her great-grandfather belonged to the Waffen-SS, the paramilitary branch of the SS. Documentation found includes an 'Aryan certificate' used to prove his lineage. Additionally, correspondence from 1943 revealed plans to prepare his hunting lodge in the Lüneburg Heath to serve as an alternative headquarters for an SS and Police Leader in anticipation of bombings in Hamburg.