Paolo Ferraris 

My name is Paolo Ferraris, and I was a lawyer. I gave my life to defend those persecuted by the Nazi-fascist regime. I risked everything because I believed in freedom, and I have no regrets, as it allowed future generations, like my daughter Paola and young people like you, to live in a free Italy. I was born in Domodossola on August 15, 1907, in a wealthy family. My father was a builder, and my mother came from a family of wine merchants. I grew up in France and then Turin, where I attended high school and later graduated in law in 1938. I was passionate about French and my friends called me "Paul". In 1936, I married Dora Scheuber, and we had our daughter Paola in Como during my service as a lieutenant in the army. After the Armistice, I returned home and decided to help the National Liberation Committee by hiding political opponents and persecuted Jews. The fascists soon started to keep an eye on me. On February 6,1944, I was arrested for hosting a Resistance meeting. I was later deported to Mauthausen and then to Gusen, where I was forced to work under terrible conditions. On March 3, 1945, I was beaten to death by the camp guards. I died the next day. I want you to remember that your freedom is sacred, as are the lives of those who fought for it. Never forget!