Emma van Taack lived in Holland when the war broke out. She witnessed the German assault on Rotterdam and lived through the occupation. Becoming a teenager during the war, Emma joined a Dutch resistance cell, where she actively fought against the German forces. She assisted Allied soldiers, acted as a messenger, and risked her life numerous times throughout the war.

She visited Crestwood in February 2009, where she was interviewed by students Michael Armel and Dallas Barrs.