(Jewish Telegraphic Agency)
Omission of Charles A. Levine’s name in the report of the arrival of the Columbia on its non-stop trans-Atlantic flight is the policy pursued by the German anti-Semitic press. This policy is practiced only by the outspoken anti-Semitic journals in Germany.
The Democratic press hails Chamberlin and Levine. The newspapers point out that in addition to his unparalleled courage and pioneer spirit, Levine has the distinction of being a patron of aeronautics. “Das Berlinner Tageblatt” concludes an editorial on the journey of the Columbia with “Long live Chamberlin and Levine!”
The German and foreign press was received by the fliers yesterday at the American embassy in the presence of the American Ambassador, Jacob Gould Schurman, for a five minute interview. The Ambassador was photographed with his arms about Levine and Chamberlin. A huge crowd shouted jubilantly outside the embassy.
In an exclusive interview with the correspondent of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency here, Charles A. Levine described the experiences of his flight. Asked what was the motive for his taking the trip and whether he was moved to do this by his pioneer spirit alone, Levine stated that he had devoted his life to furthering the progress of aviation. “I am, however, happy that my part in this work is a cause of pride and joy to my Jewish friends. Please transmit my regards to my fellow Americans,” he said.
During the interview, Levine discussed the subject of the participation of Jews in crossing the ocean in the early days of navigation and the role of Jewish pioneers in aviation.
At the rousing reception accorded the fliers on the arrival of the Columbia at Tempelhof aerodrome, speeches were delivered by the German Minister of Commerce Curtius and Mayor Schoelz. The American Ambassador in his speech to Chamberlin referred to Levine, saying: “I am delighted that you and your companion in your flight, Levine, arrive in Germany in such excellent condition and beg you both to come with me to the American Embassy where you will be my guests.”
Chamberlin and Levine were received today by President von Hindenburg. They were entertained at tea by Chancellor Marx and in the evening were given an official dinner. Tomorrow they will lunch with Foreign Minister Stresemann.
The Archive of the Jewish Telegraphic Agency includes articles published from 1923 to 2008. Archive stories reflect the journalistic standards and practices of the time they were published.
