Criminal Under the Wall
Oct 11, 2024
Joachim Rudolph, an engineering student and key figure behind the daring escape of 29 people from East Germany, shares gripping tales from a tumultuous time. He recounts the shock of the Berlin Wall's rise and the emotional chaos it caused. Joachim dives into the risky tunnel-digging operation, emphasizing the relentless determination of those involved. He describes the heart-pounding moments during escapes, culminating in the unforgettable reunions that captured courage amid despair. His reflections illustrate a vivid clash between youthful dreams and stark realities.
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The First Tunnel
- Joachim and his friends posed as a jazz band to gain access to a cellar to dig a tunnel.
- He innovated solutions like a cart system, lighting, ventilation, and a WWII telephone for communication within the tunnel.
NBC's Involvement & The First Attempt
- NBC secretly filmed and funded the tunnel project in exchange for exclusive footage.
- The first attempt failed due to a Stasi informant, but Joachim and his team narrowly escaped.
The Escape Signals
- The diggers used a system of signals to alert those waiting to escape.
- A woman ordered specific items at different bars as a signal that the tunnel was open.