As the British passport control officer in Berlin during the rise of Nazi power, Foley went beyond his official duties and used his position to issue visas and travel documents to help Jewish families and individuals escape Nazi persecution and seek refuge in other countries.
Here's how Frank Foley helped the Jews:
1. Unconventional Visa Issuance: Foley recognized the dire situation faced by Jews under the Nazi regime. He intentionally interpreted visa requirements flexibly, overlooked certain regulations, and issued entry permits to Jews who otherwise might not have met the strict criteria imposed by the British government.
2. Compassion and Persistence: Foley often went to great lengths to assist Jewish applicants. He would provide them with necessary documentation and travel advice beyond what was typically required. He also made personal efforts to speed up the visa application process and coordinate with other embassies to ensure smooth travel.
3. Network of Supporters: Foley worked in collaboration with various humanitarian organizations, including the Quaker Committee for Refugees and the Church of England's Refugee Committee, to identify Jewish individuals in need and to provide them with financial support and transportation assistance.
4. Deception and Secrecy: To avoid raising suspicion, Foley often concealed the true intentions behind issuing visas. He would disguise his communication with Jewish applicants by using different names and codes. He also devised creative strategies to deliver documents without detection by the Gestapo.
5. Moral Reasoning: Foley's actions were guided by his strong sense of morality and ethical principles. He realized that even though he was acting outside of the strict regulations of his job, he was saving lives and upholding the values of humanity.
6. Risks and Challenges: Foley faced significant risks in carrying out his humanitarian efforts. The Nazis conducted thorough checks and scrutinized entry permits, and he had to constantly adapt his tactics to avoid arousing suspicion.
Through his courageous and compassionate actions, Frank Foley estimates he helped save close to 10,000 Jewish people during the Holocaust, offering them a lifeline out of Nazi Germany and providing a glimmer of hope in the midst of tremendous darkness. His heroic deeds have earned him recognition as one of the "Righteous Among the Nations" by the State of Israel.