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Moshe Tarn is addressed in correspondence from the Lubavitcher Rebbe as a dedicated community activist (askan betzorkhei tzibbur), involved in Jewish communal and educational matters in Fernwald, a postwar displaced persons camp.
The Rebbe's letter to Moshe Tarn, dated 22 Shevat 5711 (1951), discusses the state of Jewish education and religious life in Fernwald. The Rebbe references prior communication with Tarn regarding concerns about the educational environment in the camp. He informs Tarn of a report received from the Joint Distribution Committee in Paris, which investigated the situation and led to several improvements: only teachers with a positive approach to religious matters were permitted to teach Tanach; children were required to sit with their heads covered during religious classes; and boys and girls were to be separated during these lessons.
The letter further notes enhancements in religious infrastructure, including a special budget for the local rabbinate to maintain a mikveh and oversee kashrus in hospitals. Religious teachers received increased food ration cards and their salaries were arranged through the Joint. The needs of rabbis and religious requirements of the camp were reportedly being met to a greater extent than before.
The Rebbe analyzes the situation, suggesting that complaints about the program were motivated less by genuine criticism and more by a desire among some to establish their own program. He expresses interest in receiving updated information from Tarn about the current situation and the extent to which these improvements were being maintained.