Berendina "Diet" Eman
Holland

Shortly after turning 20, Diet's life changed drastically with the invasion of her homeland. The way Jewish acquaintances were being treated was of particular concern to her and her Christian friends. They began to turn their beliefs into action on behalf of a Jewish friend whose house had been confiscated by the occupation forces. For this person and many others they found shelter with Dutch farmers willing to provide Jews with a place to stay.

Diet and her friends carried out many underground activities to support their efforts until she was arrested in 1944. She gained release by telling a bold lie. Though against her principles, she used the inspiration of the Biblical character, Rahab, who had lied and was blessed for it. After release from prison she continued rescue work and was asked to spy for the Dutch resistance movement.

Her life continues to be one of helping others as a volunteer with the International Red Cross Disaster Services. She also spends some time speaking out against those who claim that the Jewish people and others were not treated brutally during the Hitler era. She can speak forcefully from her perspective as a rescuer.