Author's Note: This short story is based on the 2004 film "Downfall" or "Der Untergang" and the Downfall Parodies on YouTube based on scenes from that film.
He was a leader, someone so dedicated to the people of Germany.
Even though he was teased, derided, and mocked by the generals in the bunker, he still was worthy of respect. He ruled Germany with an iron fist, but he also truly loved the country and did his best to make it a better place.
Even when Adolf Hitler had been the target of cruel pranks by Hermann Fegelein, he still managed to persevere and prove that he truly deserved to be leader. He was hated by the whole world, but loved by the Untergang community on YouTube. He was the inspiration for one of the most humorous and longest memes, and that was not something that could be ignored.
He was purely German, but also had a worldly heart. He made Germany strong, courageous, and determined. The bunker, while torturous at times, was also filled with love and harmony because of his leadership and voice. Hitler disliked his minions, but he secretly had a soft spot for them.
Hitler had received prominence and worldwide attention for his involvement in international politics. When terrorist groups and worldly adversaries threatened the world and tried to cause devastation and detriment, Hitler rose to the challenge and did everything in his power to hinder them. He was never afraid to speak his mind and stand up for what was right. He had no problem with criticizing United States presidents or leaders from the United Nations. This made him feared and admired by numerous people all around the world. Despite the harsh criticism he received from his enemies and sometimes even his own supporters for his rants and his outlandish statements and actions, he also earned credit and recognition for his heroic deeds and attributes. This made him into the man and public figure that he is known as in the Downfall universe.
Hitler never wanted to surrender, he never wanted to give up. While others would quit and never look back, Hitler stayed on the task and remained firm. He was the alpha-male, the leader, the voice that resonated within the hearts of the German citizens. No one seemed fit to ever replace him, not even Joseph Goebbels.
Hitler made his mark on Germany and on the world. His numerous activities, whether it involved attacking celebrities, insulting politicians, trying to eliminate Fegelein, playing video games, or giving his feedback on organized sporting events, he gave his heart into that activity. He proved that he had a unique voice within the bunker and within Germany.
No matter what the generals in the bunker thought of Hitler, there was always the respect and admiration for the Fuhrer, deep down. He had been through so much, gave so much to help people that would probably spit in his face, and showed what it meant to be a leader during adversity and turbulence.
Otto Gunsche was honored to inform Hitler on numerous occasions. He was proud to serve this leader, this man that built Germany and made it strong, a man that helped a nation during its twilight in battle and devastation. He was proud to call Hitler his boss and…his friend.
Albert Speer sat down with Hitler one day.
"This nation, this country…they are all so proud of you", Speer said.
"That is true", Hitler said.
"These people…they will always have a place in your heart", Speer said.
"Always."
"If you could say one thing to all of them at the same time, what would it be?"
Hitler thought for a few minutes. Then, an idea formed in his head.
"Never lose hope. Striving and prospering is essential for the life of any human. Every single person in this world will one day leave it. One day, we will all have to say farewell to those we love. We will depart this world and never return. What I would say to them, is that you can have such a huge impact and really make a difference. You can be a leader. You can be a strong voice. Someone whose words and deeds will not vanquish. Someone whom the whole world will be thrilled to have the privilege of living in the same time period as. Someone to rely and trust. Make your country proud, make your family proud. Show that you are selfless. Show that you have passion and dedication. If living in a bunker with idiots has taught me anything, it's that you can have real and heartfelt commitment. You can make an impact on the world and make it better. You can have allies, those whom you can trust the most. You can prove that you are unique, that you can pass on unique qualities and characteristics that will benefit the people around you. I say this from the bottom of my heart."
"Well said, Mein Fuhrer", Speer said. "This world will never forget you."
Hitler gave a rare smile, showing that he was happy and blessed at the same time.
He would always the Fuhrer of the hearts of the German people. Always and forever.
Author's Note: And that is the short story! This story is a tribute to the actor that played Adolf Hitler in Downfall, the late Bruno Ganz. Rest in peace, Bruno Ganz. You will always have a place in the hearts of the Untergangers. You are truly missed.