862.1121 Hirsch, Helmut/55: Telegram

The Consul General at Berlin ( Jenkins ) to the Secretary of State

Helmuth Hirsch was executed, beheaded, at 6 o’clock this morning in the Ploetzense prison. Yesterday afternoon I requested authorities to permit me and Geist to see Hirsch immediately after he had been informed of forthcoming execution and chief prosecuting attorney arranged to meet us last evening at prison at 7:15. However, when he arrived he informed me Ministry of Justice could only permit me to see Hirsch if Hirsch expressed a desire to see me. I said, nevertheless, I maintained my request as I desired to know if Hirsch had any message for family. Geist and I then remained at prison awaiting possible request from Hirsch but none came. Nearly 2 hours later the prosecuting attorney came out and informed us that Hirsch had not expressed a desire to see me, that he had asked for a cup of coffee and permission to write to parents and several others which requests were granted. Prosecuting attorney also said that Hirsch was calm and that a Jewish Rabbi was with Hirsch and would remain throughout night. Consulate General has informed Hirsch’s parents in Prague and is arranging cremation of body.

Jenkins