Austrian ophthalmologist, Dr. Karl B. Hruby, is well known for his present lens, which allows slit-lamp examination of the vitreous and fundus. He is also known as one of the first to use microsurgical methods for intraocular operations and scleral buckling for retinal detachments. In this memoir, Dr. Hruby shares the fascinating personal account of his experiences as a prisoner and physician during World War II, and as an outstanding teacher and clinician thereafter. The article is followed by the editorial comment of Dr. Fred Blodi, who invited Dr. Hruby to contribute this article.