Frank Shatz, a Holocaust survivor and beloved columnist, celebrated his 100th birthday on March 15, 2026, with a series of events recognizing his remarkable life and contributions. Known for his insights on international affairs, Shatz has been a prominent figure in the Williamsburg community, where he has lived for decades.
Born in 1926 in Parkan, a small town between Czechoslovakia and Hungary, Shatz experienced the impact of anti-Jewish laws firsthand. As a teenager, he was forced into a Nazi slave labor camp, where he was tasked with building railroad tracks. He managed to escape and joined the anti-Nazi resistance in Budapest. Only six of the 214 men in his unit survived the war, highlighting the immense challenges he faced.
After immigrating to the United States in 1958 with his wife, Jaroslava Shatz, Shatz continued his career as a journalist, contributing to the Hungarian Daily and later becoming a columnist for The Virginia Gazette in the early 1980s. Over his writing career, he produced more than 2,200 columns, intertwining personal memories with broader discussions of global issues.
Community Celebrates a Century of Resilience
To honor his milestone birthday, James City County declared March 15 as “Frank Shatz Day.” The proclamation celebrated not only his century of life but also his “extraordinary contributions” to the community. At a birthday party attended by friends, family, and local officials, including Katherine Rowe, President of William & Mary, Shatz was praised for his grace and resilience in the face of adversity.
Rowe remarked, “How much grace you have brought to those of us who have known you the rest of your life.” The event was filled with tributes, with attendees expressing admiration for Shatz’s ability to inspire generations through his storytelling.
Shatz’s influence extends to academia as well. He and Jaroslava played pivotal roles in establishing the Reves Center for International Affairs at William & Mary. The couple has maintained strong connections with the university, where Shatz was named an honorary alumnus in 2015.
A Legacy of Storytelling and Community Engagement
During the birthday celebration, Shatz was presented with a collection of poetry and a manuscript detailing his life, written by William Walker, a retired associate vice president for public relations at William & Mary. Walker noted that Shatz’s writings do not capture the full extent of his life experiences. “Frank is a true hero,” he stated, emphasizing the profound impact Shatz has had on those around him.
In a heartfelt speech, Shatz reflected on his journey. He expressed gratitude for the support he has received throughout his life. “I am overwhelmed with gratitude and honor that you are all here,” he said. He downplayed his heroism, attributing his survival to the community and camaraderie he found during the war. “If you want to walk far, join others,” he quoted, highlighting the importance of collaboration in overcoming challenges.
Shatz’s story is not just one of survival but of thriving in the face of adversity. His commitment to sharing his experiences has inspired many, making him a cherished figure in Williamsburg and beyond. As he marks this significant birthday, the community reflects on the legacy of a man who has dedicated his life to storytelling, resilience, and the pursuit of justice.
