Josef Mašín has died, who fought his way to the West from Czechoslovakia with a weapon in 1953

Josef Mašín, a prominent figure in the armed resistance against the Czechoslovak communist regime, passed away at 94 in Santa Barbara, California. His death was announced by the Memory of Nations organization. Mašín was the last surviving member of a group that attempted to flee to the West in 1953. His father, a general, was executed by the Nazis during World War II. Mašín and his brother Ctirad led armed resistance against the communist regime in the early 1950s, including attacks on police stations. Their group eventually escaped to the West after several attempts, while others were captured and faced severe penalties. The legacy of the Mašín brothers remains divisive in Czech society, with supporters viewing them as heroes and critics condemning their violent methods.