<p>David, do you think the bombing of Dresden, Braunschweig and many more german cities towards the end of the war by the american and british air force was any better than the horrible deeds of these red army soldiers just because it was commanded by high ranks? I understand the desire for revenge when I look at both actions, but still think it was not human and not justifiable. Having said that, I'm still thankful to the allied forces that they freed germany from the nazi regime. I am german, born in 1964. I grew up in a country that I think learned it's lesson, but still suffers on a psychological level under the consequences of the war. Many of the generation of my parents and grand-parents not only remained silent, out of guilt or shame or suppression, but was also emotionally withdrawn. The german word for "responsibilty" is "Verantwortung", which includes the word "Antwort" or "answer". Every participating nation in this dreadful war must seek it's own answers instead on pointing the finger on the others.<br>
Regarding the photo in question. For me it's propaganda and it's value rises and falls with my grade of approval with the aims of the publishers. I dislike propaganda, when I think it wants me to identify with the power of a group/nation or whatever. Maybe one lesson I learned from german history. Even if I can identify with the american soldiers who fought a necessary war, the photo still leaves me with a feeling of dislike.<br>
I think it's a difficult task to differentiate between the content and esthetical aspects, if possible at all. Leni Riefenstahl was a terrific photographer and director, but I still think she was nazi whore.</p>