Crossing the Line
This incredible photo was taken in Germany in 1961 at the site of the newly formed Berlin Wall fence. Although the German soldier seems to be looking back and ignoring the young boy, there’s more to this photo than meets the eye. In fact, he is going against his direct orders from his Officer and is actually helping the little boy cross the fence after being separated from his family.
In the post-war era Germany, the country was plunged into chaos and divided into a confusing patchwork of areas and zones. These zones were occupied by Americans, British, French, and the Soviets. In 1961 the Soviets were given direct orders to construct a barbed wire fence between East and West Germany. However, when this little boy was separated from his family this brave soldier lifted him over to be reunited and have a chance for a better life.