Murrysville history program explores Nazi saboteurs in the U.S. during World War II

It’s rare for Ken Serfass to show up in a community dressed as, well, Ken Serfass.

Typically, Serfass is dressed as Civil War general and former U.S. President Ulysses S. Grant, providing a fully immersive look into Grant’s life and times through a traveling historical program.

But, while Serfass’ outfit will be a bit less exciting when he returns to Murrysville on Oct. 13, the topic — Nazi soldiers sent to the U.S. during World War II intent on sabotage — is not.

As World War II was raging in Europe, two German submarines landed men ashore at Amagansett, N.Y., and Ponte Verdra Beach, Fla., with the goal of sabotaging American industry, including critical infrastructure such as major hydroelectric plants, railroad tracks, bridges, canals and even the water supply system for New York City.

In Pennsylvania, their targets included locks on the Ohio River between Pittsburgh and Louisville, Ky., as well as the famous Horseshoe Curve near Altoona, according to the HistoryNet.com website.

The men charged with carrying out “Operation Pastorius,” were provided with American money, civilian clothing, dynamite and more.

One of the plotters eventually contacted the FBI and laid out the whole plot for federal investigators, who ultimately rounded up all of the would-be saboteurs.

Serfass will delve into the details of “Operation Pastorius,” and how it was largely foiled by the U.S. Coast Guard before it could get under way.

The presentation will be at 6:30 p.m., Oct. 13 at the Murrysville municipal building, 4100 Sardis Road.

There is no cost to attend, but registration is required and seating is limited. To register, call 724-327-2100, ext. 131 or see MurrysvillePArecreation.com.