Etingin — Association of Jews of Vilna and vicinity in Israel

Before the war, Albert Etingin, a resident of Vilna, had business connections with Boleslaw and Jozefa Boratynski and assisted them when they faced severe financial difficulties. After the Germans occupied Vilna, Etingin, his wife Sonia, and their two sons, Maks (16) and Henry (13), were imprisoned in the Vilna Ghetto. Even while the Jews were confined during the occupation, Boratynski inquired about the fate of the Etingin family and sent a message to Albert that he and his wife were prepared to shelter all four members of the family in their home.

Despite his parents’ objections to such a risky undertaking, Boratynski prepared a hiding place for the family in the cellar. He later dug a large pit in his garden, where the family concealed themselves. The Boratynskis did this out of gratitude to Albert Etingin, who had once saved them from financial ruin. They provided food daily and removed waste from the hiding place, expecting nothing in return.

After the war, the Etingins emigrated to the USA but maintained contact with the Boratynskis and even invited them to stay with them.

On 11 February 1992, Yad Vashem recognized Jozefa and Boleslaw Boratynski as Righteous Among the Nations.

Translated from: 21 Biographies, Leah Preis / Yad Vashem.