October 12, 2005
The US government has issued a statement of regret for the actions of soldiers who took valuables belonging to Hungarian Jews that had been seized on a Nazi "Gold Train" during the end of World War II. The statement by the Justice department said that the government regretted "the improper conduct of certain of its military personnel" who took items that had been on the train, which was carrying jewelry, gold, artwork, oriental rugs, china, cutlery, linens and other items. "The United States has concluded that, although the conduct of its personnel was appropriate in most respects, it was contrary to US policy and the standards expected of its soldiers". The apology came as part of a settlement approved by a judge in Miami in September. It calls for a payment of US$ 25.5 million, to be distributed to needy Jews through social service agencies around the world, with the bulk going to those living in Israel, Hungary, the United States and Canada.
