From the NY Times, February 19, 1938 on how the “Victory Column” was used as the backdrop for a major Hitler speech seen as the prelude for the takeover of Austria:
The Reichstag itself and its surroundings are decorated with flags and garlands. The most significant decorations, perhaps, are the huge banners hung from the victory column facing the old Reichstag building and the rising sun superimposed by the German eagle which will form Hitler’s background when he speaks.
Yeah, I can see why some might have a problem with Senator Obama giving his speech here.