Kurt Waldheim

Born in Austria, Kurt Waldheim enjoyed a long and distinguished career in international diplomacy and politics, culminating in his election as President of Austria in 1986. Before that, he served two terms as the Secretary-General of the United Nations, a position of considerable global influence and prestige.

However, his presidential campaign was marred by accusations regarding his service in the Wehrmacht during World War II. It was revealed that he had lied about his past, concealing his involvement in units responsible for war crimes in the Balkans. This scandal led to international isolation for Austria and a ban on Waldheim entering the United States.

Despite the controversy, Waldheim maintained his innocence and completed his term as president. He consistently downplayed his role and knowledge of atrocities, painting himself as merely a "soldier doing his duty." His legacy remains a complex and uncomfortable chapter in both Austrian and UN history.

So, while his public service was extensive, any potential "kvell" from a Jewish perspective is entirely eclipsed by the discovery of his rather inconvenient military history. Not a Jew, and definitely not a good look.