My great-grandmother, Brigitte, a German immigrant, shaped our family's American story. Born in Olfen, Germany, during WWII, she didn't meet her soldier father until age six. Her resilience shone through post-war devastation as she raised her first child. She later met my great-grandfather, an American GI, and had her second child in Germany.

Their move to suburban Chicago marked her new beginning. Before immigrating, they even managed A&W drive-ins in Germany – a fun coincidence since it was my favorite restaurant growing up!

My dad fondly recalls Brigitte's tireless work ethic. She started as a waitress, then built a successful consignment boutique. Her drive and entrepreneurial spirit, despite adapting to a new culture, truly embody the "American Dream." Though I knew her only through family stories and childhood visits, her journey highlights how immigrants bravely crossing oceans continually shape American identity. 

– Taylor Aiello

Relationship:  Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more Great-grandchild of im/migrant or more