Holocaust survivors and their families gathered in New City yesterday to commemorate the 72nd anniversary of Kristallnacht.

Kristallnacht signifies the night during which Nazi troops shattered the glass windows of Jewish-owned homes and businesses in German cities.

One survivor, Alfred Berg, shared his story with hundreds of people from the steps of the Rockland County Courthouse. He says Nazi soldiers stormed into his family's apartment and imprisoned his father. "For over 48 hours, violent mobs made mostly of Nazi party officials and some civilians rampaged the streets assaulting Jews and vandalizing their property," he said.

Residents say Holocaust commemorations are important as reminders of the past.