Stalag 344

Camp Commandant

Abwehr-Offizier

German Chief Physician

Assistants

Senior British Officers

British Man of Confidence

British Man of Confidence for RAF

Red Cross Trustee

: Oberstlt. Messner

: Hauptmann Melz

: Oberfeldarzt Springer

: Stabsarzt Dr. Richter (Revier)

: Stabsarzt Dr. Schaffranik (Revier)

: Lt. Col. D.M. Crawford, RAMC

: Lt. Col. T.H. Wilson, RAMC)

: R.S.M. Sheriff

: Sgt. A.M. Curry

: W.O.L. J. Lowe

Following a further reduction in the number of prisoners of war (for figures see above) since our last visit, the situation has again somewhat improved. In none [Note: should read nine, or one?] of the rooms the lower beds are now being used and no prisoners sleep on palliasses as reported on the occasion of our last visit. Otherwise there is nothing new to report.

The water supply is still insufficient and remains to be a serious problem. In the upper part of the camp water pressure is continuing low, one barrack block (No.2) in which are accommodated 950 men, never gets water through the pipes. All water for their use has to be carried either from the main tank or from other blocks. The water through the pipes reaches barracks blocks No. 3, 4, 5 and 6 for about one hour in the early morning and again for the same period in the evening. All other blocks get a sufficient water supply through the pipes. Many methods have been tried to improve the water supply through the pipes for the upper part of the camp without success. The only way of having good water supply in the entire camp is by building a water tower on the highest part of the camp and entirely new pipelines installed. According to the German authorities this is out of the question, since the material as well as the workmen to do the job are lacking, moreover it would take far too long to build it. Unless this new water supply system is being installed, nothing can be done to improve the present position.

Bathing facilities are inadequate due to the supply of water as mentioned above. Moreover the water is being cut off at odd times during day, so that the pressure of water during the rest of the time in stronger. To compensate the cutting off the supply of water during the day, the German authorities have consented to allow the bath-house to remain open daily (except Sundays) until 8 p.m. Thus permitting a full working day on Saturdays, and enables the large number of men participating in evening recreation to have a shower after the games are finished. Camp employed staffs are bathed once weekly, while the remainder are passed through at intervals varying from 14 to 18 days. Weekly bucket baths for limbless and plaster cases are provided. The number bathed during the months of April and May are 16.078 and 15.239 respectively.

Since the strength of the camp has not been reduced to the figure planned by the German authorities, in spite of the great effort made by the present camp commander, there has been no change since our last visit. The latrines are still inadequate. Had it not been for the great initiative and help of a W.O. of the Hygiene Section of the S.A.M.C. in removing the solids by the aid of scoops and boxes and emptied into a hole which had been dug far outside the camp, the situation would have become very serious. Here again the camp commander is giving every help possible.

There has been little change since our last visit and no complaint has been made. The potato ration has again been decreased from 500 gr. to 400 gr., being compensated by millet or barley. This is due to the shortage of potatoes in Germany. Dried peas are issued two or three times a week which has become the basis of a favourite midday meal.

Lt.Col. Crawford is now in charge of the revier. Major S.C. de Clive-Lowe who used to be in charge has been transferred to the new lazaret at Tost. Lt. Col. Crawford is assisted by:

There are no more unemployed medical officers at the revier. The ten medical officers mentioned in our last report and one of the assistant medical officers as well as one dental officer are now in different working parties controlled by Stalag 344, an improvement which is greatly appreciated here and in the various working detachments. Of the 450 beds available at the revier there are 250 beds occupied now. An entirely new barrack has been put up to be used as consulting rooms. This new barrack should be finished within a very short time, thus making a great improvement all around and relieving the congestion in the sleeping quarters of the medical officers. The drug supply is about the same as last time and is said to be sufficient due to the British drug supply. Thanks to the great understanding of the Oberfeldarzt and especially of the camp commander many minor improvements have been made and are still being carried out. Attached are a list of sick traffic in the revier for the past six months, two charts showing incidence of disease Jan-May 1944 and a dental report of the British dental officer.

The situation is much better at present; there is no overcrowding. Moreover some 75 beds will be free in a very short time since the T.B. cases will be removed to the T.B. Sanatorium at Elsterhorst. The only drawback in connection with the accommodation is that there still double-tier beds used in the wards, which makes it very difficult for the doctor to make the examinations during his daily rounds.

The drug supply has improved lately, since the standard medical parcels are coming through regularly now, and extra requirements continue to arrive. An adequate supply of German material is available which is sufficient when combined with the British medical parcels.

The old autoclave at the surgical department, which had been on the point of breaking down for such a long time and which made work so difficult, has finally be replaced by an entirely new electrical model to the great appreciation of the surgeon. The Senior British medical officer has made the request for the return of Major W.R. Henderson, RAMC (Neuro-surgeon), who has been at this lazaret for operations on brain and nerve injuries. He was suddenly returned to OFLAG IV C, where he is apparently doing no work. Since he is a great specialist for nerve operations and as there are many such operations which have to be performed, his return to join the staff of this lazaret would be greatly appreciated. The Swiss Legation in Berlin is taking this matter up with the OKW.

There seems to be great difficulties in getting officer patients to an OFLAG when they become fit again, as they take up beds which are needed for more serious cases. Some of these officers have been discharged as long ago as May 8th, 1944. This question will be taken up with the OKW.

The senior British medical officer again stressed the point of having a central mental hospital in Germany established. The Swiss Legation in Berlin will again approach the OKW on this matter.

Sgt. Lowe is still in charge of the Red Cross food and clothing. The situation with regard to clothing and boots, which a short time ago promised satisfactory, has deteriorated during the past few weeks. The stocks of greatcoats, caps, boots, battle-dresses, underclothing have become practically nil. Consequently the issue of clothing has been cancelled until the situation improves with the exception of the supply to new prisoners of war.

The new order from the OKW by which camps can have a supply of Red Cross food parcels for a period of 8 weeks can be considered as acceptable for OFLAGS, ILAGS, N.C.O. camps where the strength of the camps is somewhat stabilized. However, this new arrangement is most unsatisfactory with regard to this camp, on which 232 working detachments are dependent on and where the strength of the camp as well as the detachments vary so often and so much. Moreover with the increasing difficulties of transport facilities in Germany, it is felt that the supply of Red Cross parcels to this camp, which is one of the most easterly Stalags with its working detachments is being endangered by this new arrangement of an eight weeks' stock. The Swiss Legation in Berlin is taking this matter up with the OKW with the view of letting the Red Cross trustee with the agreement of the camp commander decide as to the size of the stock to be kept at this Stalag.

A request for indoor games, books, book-binding material, gramophones and gramophone-needles is being transmitted to the YMCA since the stock is practically exhausted.

The installation of the new laundry in the old coffee-kitchen is said to be most beneficial, constant hot water is supplied from 8.30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and some 250 men are able to do their washing every day.

There are still some medical orderlies working in the revier or the lazaret, who cannot produce proper papers and are therefore not recognized as such by the German authorities. The fear of the senior medical officers that these men would be taken away suddenly has no bearing, since the Oberfeldarzt as well as the camp commander assured the delegate of the Protecting Power that these medical orderlies shall remain at their present job whether their papers are in order or not, otherwise the work at the revier and the hospital could not be carried out any longer.

There are some non-commissioned officers still waiting for their papers from England for recognition, the particular having already been forwarded to England.

Facilities are said to be better than ever before and have extended to concessions which have led to visits to larger working parties of Soccer and Rugger teams, as well as for theatrical shows and orchestras. All sports grounds within the camp are in constant use from day-break to dusk. A play or a musical show is running usually from two to three weeks to enable all the men to see it. The camp commander who has so far attended every show or play told the delegate of the Protecting Power that the performances are really first class. The delegate was present at the musical show which was just running at the time of his visit and enjoyed the performance immensely. The camp commander takes great interest in the games and the theatrical entertainment and is giving every facility possible to the great appreciation of all the men.

The distribution of mail has improved greatly. However, letters from England are very slow now due to the temporary suspension of airmail from England which the men fully realise. Some letters from New Zealand bear an examiner's label under the number of which there is a printers sign of three short dashes and a long dash. The German authorities interpret the sign as that of the letter "V" in the Morse code and therefore have held back such letters. The matter has been explained to the camp commander by the delegate of the Protecting Power and it has been proposed that in case the German authorities object to this sign, they should cut it out or make it invisible to enable the men to receive the letters. It has been said that the contents of most of these letters are such that a non-deliverance of them is justified. The matter is being examined. As this sign seems to create great difficulties and may lead to further complications, it would be appreciated if the sign could be abolished.

The man of confidence has informed the delegate of the Protecting Power of an act of gallantry performed by Pte. Edgar BARNFIELD, POW No. 5592, Royal West Kent Regiment Cftsman Stanley BENNET, POW No 5839, R.E.M.E. both at working detachment No. E. 165, in saving a German woman and her child from drowning. Particulars of this act of gallantry are being forwarded to the British Legation at Berne to be brought to the notice of the competent authority in England. Each man received a document from the camp commander of Stalag 344 in which he expressed his appreciation for their act of gallantry.

The following complaints have been brought to the attention of the delegate of the Protecting Power by 10 men of confidence from various working detachments belonging to this Stalag 344:

The camp is said to be overcrowded, apparently there are 48 men in a room which accommodates only 30 men.

No working clothes have been issued by the firm; the work is said to be exceedingly dirty (stone factory).

Compound far too small for any exercise, football only on Sundays, apparently there is enough space to enlarge the compound.

There is no playing field, compound too small for any games. Apparently the military authorities are constantly looking for a football field, but as soon as one is found, the civilians (Bürgermeister) refuses the men to play.

No complaints. Expressed the wish to go to cinema. Owner of cinema is prepared to give a special performance for the POWs but needs the permission from the military authorities.

Compound is said to be too small, there is apparently enough space for the enlargement of compound.

The men are asking for a room in the guest-house for their midday meal. Apparently they are not getting any midday-meal, while the German workers are having their midday-meal at the guest-house. There is apparently a separate room free where the POWs could have their meal.

The men are billeted in a small private house in this village where they have their sleeping quarters only. They take their meals in a special room at the factory (sugar factory). At 8 p.m. the men are being locked up in the house. An order has been issued by the control officer by which any man seen outside the house after locking-up time will be shot without warning. This order is only in force until new camp, which is under construction, is finished.

The Kommandoführer takes it on himself to decide whether a man is fit for work and often sends men to work in spite of the doctors certificate that they should still remain in camp for recuperation.

When the new weekly Red Cross parcels are being issued to the men, the Kommandoführer apparently confiscates all Red Cross food left from the parcel which has been issued the previous week.

These points were discussed with the camp commander who promised to examine the cases at once, if possible to visit the working detachments himself, and to make the necessary adjustments.

The man of confidence of Stalag 344 informed the delegate of the Protecting Power that the following three men have been asked to see the German military authorities for verification of their ranks on June 24th, 1944, at 10 a.m. and have never been seen since. Upon request for an explanation the camp commander informed the delegate of the Protecting Power that these three men were under arrest by order of the OKW for interrogation. Apparently this is in no way connected with the time they have spent in this camp. Their names are:

The latter has been taken from the lazaret, where he is under treatment (diabetes). He has passed the Mixed Medical commission for repatriation on April 27th, 1944.

The camp commander assured the delegate of the Protecting Power that the men receive proper treatment and that Greenwell is receiving the diet and treatment prescribed by the doctor.

The Swiss Legation in Berlin is endeavouring to obtain further information from the OKW.

A new order has been issued to all the Stalags and working detachments by which all the prisoners of war are compelled to salute their Kommandoführer since the Kommandoführer is being considered as military superior to working parties. The same order applies to the saluting of control-officers and the block-leaders in the compound. As these Kommandoführers and most of the block-leaders (Bloc-Führer) are German underofficers, the prisoners of war object strongly against this new order. Upon paying a visit to the General who is in charge of the prisoners of war in the Wehrkreis VIII, the delegate endeavoured to receive further information with regard to the new saluting order. According to the General, this is not a new order, it is simply a confirmation of an order which has always been in use and was only a measure to re-establish former discipline which has become rather slack lately, as it happens in all the armies from time to time. He promised to take the matter up with the OKW, since the order does not seem to be very clear and gives one to understand that prisoners of war would have to salute German underofficers which, of course, is not in agreement with the Geneva Convention and the regulations in the British army.

Although the strength of the camp has not been reduced to its normal capacity, in spite of every effort made by the camp commander, the reduction to the present strength has nevertheless improved the living conditions. Every possible thing is being done to overcome the shortcomings with regard to the sanitary installation, however, the deficiencies can only be remedied by a complete change of the water system as mentioned previously, which apparently is out of the question under the present conditions prevailing in Germany. The men in this camp as well as those in the various working detachments appreciate greatly the improvements made since the arrival of this new camp commander and are confident that he will continue to improve the general conditions as much as he is empowered to do so.

During the three days visit at the following working Detachments depending on Stalag 344, the Delegate of the Protecting Power was accompanied by the Adjutant of the Camp Commander of Stalag 344 to take up the necessary points to enable the German military authorities to try to remedy the shortcomings of these working detachments as soon as possible.

There are 38 British prisoners of war, engaged on work in a concrete factory. The men work 8 hours daily. Saturday afternoons and Sundays are free, if work is demanded during their free time compensation is given during the week. It is not hard work. The pay is 70 pf. daily or more.

The sleeping quarters are on the first floor of two separate buildings of the factory, between the two buildings in a small courtyard. The sleeping quarters are rather overcrowded due to lack of space. However this will be remedied by the construction of the wooden barrack, which is now under construction and which will be finished in about 4 to 6 weeks time. This new barrack is being erected on a much larger courtyard next to the factory, thus giving a larger compound, so that the men can be outdoors after their work. This new barrack will have all the necessary arrangements and promises to provide good accommodation.

Washing and bathing facilities are satisfactory, the men can have a shower every day.

Latrines are satisfactory in a separate small shed in the courtyard, two seats. Night latrines are the usual bucket with lid in each room.

The food is cooked by German women and is not very satisfactory, since the man of confidence is not allowed to control the rations. This, however, is being remedied by the fact that the guard has been ordered to let the man of confidence go to the kitchen any time he wishes to enable him to control the rations. There is a stove in each room for the men to cook their private food.

There is a recognised sanitator who takes care of the sick. The state of health is good. There is no complaint.

Every prisoner of war has two uniforms, however the working uniform of those men who have to do very dirty work is in not too good condition. Overalls had been issued at the time this commando started about two years ago. These overalls are completely worn out and no new ones have been issued so far. This point was taken up with the accompanying German officers, who stated that a supply of 12 overalls has been promised and should be delivered any day now.

The laundry is being done outside by civilian women and seems to be satisfactory.

There is no canteen in the camp, the man of confidence gets a few things from Stalag 344.

There is actually no compound in which the men can remain after working hours. After the men have their bath or wash after they come home from work (about 4½ p.m.) they are locked in their rooms until 6 p.m. Then they are taken to the nearby river (Oder) for a swim or a ball game on the small strip of grass between the river and the wall of the factory. They can remain there until 8 p.m. at which time they are again locked in. Upon request by the Delegate, the men are now allowed to remain near the river until 9 p.m. As soon as the men barrack is finished and a large compound made, the men will no more be locked in. There is a football ground nearby where the men can play every Sunday.

Mail is satisfactory, although letters are very slow of late. The men realize that airmail from England has been temporarily suspended and is therefore much slower.

The man of confidence complained that the men are not allowed to smoke during work, while the civilians can smoke. The reason given by the Germans is that they stopped the permission to smoke for the prisoners of war as well as for the guards during working hours to prevent the prisoners of war from exchanging cigarettes against eggs etc. from the civilians.

One of the men, A.E. Payne, POW No 5513 is suffering from severe headaches from time to time. He was allowed to see the military doctor, but the guard explained to the doctor that he was only trying to get time off work, therefore the doctor gave him three days punishment. The case has been brought up by the Delegate, and it has been promised that the man will receive a thorough examination by the military doctor and if necessary will be sent back to Stalag 344 for special treatment.

On the whole this is not too bad a camp is view of the fact that shortly the new barrack will be finished, which should settle the shortcomings prevailing at present.

37 Prisoners of war are engaged on work in a factory where they make linseed-cake. Some of the men work 8 hours, some 10 hours daily (piece-work) filling sacks. Apparently the amount of work is set out for 44 men and until the 7 further men, who are expected to arrive, start working, some of the men now have to work 10 hours daily. The 7 men were to arrive some time ago, however, the owner of the factory was informed that the men would only arrive after he has made certain changes in the accommodation for the men's benefit. The alterations will be completed in a short time, so that the arrival of the new men can be expected any day. The men get every Sunday free, those who have to work Sundays are getting one day free the following week.

The men are billeted in a small stone-house near the factory with two rooms on the first floor being used as sleeping quarters, a day-room and washroom on the ground floor. The sleeping rooms are furnished with double-tier beds, there is enough room for the present number of POW, however in case more should arrive the rooms would be overcrowded. This has been pointed out to the German military authorities, who informed the Delegate of the P.P. that so far he has no assurance that more men are to come. On the ground floor is the day room, where the men take their meals as well as the kitchen and the wash and bathroom.

The washing and bathing facilities are satisfactory, there are two cold showers in the washroom. The men can have hot showers three times a day in the new bathhouse at the factory.

There is a small wooden latrine at the other end of the compound, 2 seats (pit-type), satisfactory.

The food is cooked by German women and said to be quite good. No complaints. There is a stove in the day room, which the men use to cook their own private food. An adequate stock of Red Cross parcels is on hand.

Medical attention satisfactory, no complaint. The state of health of the men is good.

Each man has two uniforms. Overalls had been issued but have never been replaced. The material is said to be very bad and used in no time. The Delegate has requested to have new overalls issued and it has been promised that the matter will be taken up with the firm. The Sunday uniforms as well as the private parcels already issued to the men are kept in a small separate room, to which the men have access any time during the day.

The laundry is being done by German women and is returned well done, ironed and mended to the great satisfaction of the men.

The compound is very small so that it cannot be used for any kind of game. However the men can go swimming in the river Oder and can play hand- and volley-ball in the courtyard of the factory. They are well supplied with cards and indoor games, but asked for a piano accordion, which request is being transmitted to the Y.M.C.A.

Letters are slow at present due to the temporarily suspension of airmail from England.

The main complaint of the men is the fear of getting more POWs into this camp since the billets are full to capacity. On the other hand they would appreciate the arrival of 7 more men to work, which would mean that their working hours would be reduced, since the present 37 POWs have to do the same amount of work as foreseen for 44 men. The Delegate of the P.P. has taken up this question with the German military authorities with a view of reducing the amount of work to the number of POWs as it is quite impossible to house more men in the camp. However, there seem to be some difficulties in this respect, since the POWs are the only men working in this factory and it is said that civilian workers are at present unobtainable. The accompanying officer from Stalag 344 Lamsdorf promised to settle this question with the manager of the firm.

This working detachment can be considered good. Though the compound is small the men can get enough exercise. As soon as the question of work is settled the men will be quite content here. The manager of the firm seems to have some interest in the men and it is therefore expected that the working conditions can also be settled with him.

This working detachment has been in existence since April 1941. There are 64 Prisoners of war doing off jobs such as loading and unloading barges and wagons in the harbor. They are working 8 hours daily yet the work itself is quite irregular, as it depends on the barges coming into port. It happens that the men are ready to go to work at 6 a.m. and have to wait perhaps till midday for the barges to arrive and they can start with their work. The work itself is not too strenuous. The men get every Sunday free, in case they have to work Sundays the men receive full compensation during the week. The pay is 70 Pf. daily.

The men are housed in two old barracks with a very small courtyard between the two barracks, looking more like an open corridor. There is no compound. They sleep in small rooms, mostly single beds with enough room for a table and the necessary chairs, though the rooms are not overcrowded the accommodation is not good. There is a special room where the men keep their clothes and private food, so not to have them in their sleeping quarters. They can go to the room any time they like. Each room has a small stove for the men to cook their private food. Each man has two good blankets and there are a few more in stock. There is a four weeks supply of Red Cross parcels. The discipline and order in this commando is excellent. Since these two barracks are too old a new barrack has been started near the old ones in a small field. This new barrack is being built to accommodate 100 POWs. with new beds, cupboards, washing room, kitchen etc. and should be finished in about 4 to 6 weeks time. It looks very promising and will no doubt give far better accommodation to the men. The Compound will be much larger, so that the men can remain outdoors, plant vegetables and get some kind of ball game within the compound.

Washing facilities are at present very primitive, there is a pump in the small courtyard. The men can have hot showers every day in the kitchen. which is in another building nearby.

The food is deteriorating rapidly. It is cooked outside the compound by German women. The man of confidence has absolutely no control of the rations and says that only about 70% of the food is eaten by the men. Strong representations have been made to the German military authorities. They promised to have the man of confidence get full control of the rations and will see to it that the food is cooked in a more palatable way. They also said that this question will be settled as soon as the new barrack is finished, since the men will have their own kitchen and do the cooking themselves.

There is one recognised sanitator in this commando, who is taking care of the sick. The men can see a civilian doctor any day. The sanitator is very much pleased with the treatment the men get from this doctor. A civilian dentist is also very satisfactory. The drug supply from the Germans is as good as can be expected and with the Red Cross supplies he has all the drugs and medicine he requires. The drugs are kept by the Germans outside the compound to which the sanitator has one key, the other key to a second lock is kept by the Germans. The sanitator mentioned that he has absolutely no trouble in getting the medicine required at any time he wishes. There is no revier, the men when sick are just staying in their beds. The health of the men is very good.

Each man has two uniforms. No overalls have been issued so far, however, 100 overalls have been ordered and should arrive any day now.

The men do their own laundry, only the odd clothes, which the men use as overalls, are being sent outside for washing.

There is no canteen, the men can get beer and very occasionally some matches. The man of confidence goes to Stalag 344 about once every six weeks to buy the most necessary things.

Letters from England arrive very slowly now since the airmail has temporarily been suspended; private parcels arrive regularly.

Sports are very limited, the men can play football every Wednesday and on Sundays. This, however, will be remedied as soon as the new barrack with a larger compound will be finished. There is swimming in the harbor.

The accommodation in this camp is definitely bad. The Camp Commander of Stalag 344, when visiting this working detachment for the first time a few weeks ago, has immediately ordered that a new barrack be built to give proper accommodation to the men. This is being done with great speed, the barrack should be finished at the latest six weeks hence.

This is the first visit paid to this detachment by the Protecting Power. The detachment was formed in July 1941.

There are 66 British prisoners of war engaged on work in a cement factory. The men are divided into three shifts of ten hours daily work in the factory, bringing in and preparing material from the stone quarry to the oven, as well as working at the oven itself. Some other men work in the stone quarry, others do odd jobs such as gardening and carpenter work. The working hours in certain sections of the factory vary according to the output of certain other sections and are most of the time ten hours daily. Gardeners and carpenters are free every Sunday, while the others get only every alternative Sunday off. The output of work at the oven and inside the factory has decreased lately, so that the men do not consider the work too strenuous.

In one of the large stone-buildings of the factory are two large dormitories, which serve as sleeping and eating quarters for the men. The two very large rooms are on the second floor of the building, between the two rooms is a corridor with the staircase leading down. At the bottom of the staircase of the floor below there is a door which is always locked and guarded by one of the German sentries. On top of the staircase, next to the corridor, is a smaller room with a stove for the cooking of the private parcels. From this room a door is leading into one of the dormitories, another door is leading towards the latrines and another large room in which are kept the Red Cross parcels for the area, as well as the Red Cross parcels and clothing for this detachment, the latter being cut off by a partition. It also serves as office for the area Red Cross man, C.Q.S. Wilson, POW No 13159. The dormitories are very large and airy, though somewhat impractical, so that the double-tier beds have to be put along one of the long walls in two rows. There is enough space between the beds, however, it is not a very satisfactory arrangement. The men seem to be quite satisfied with it, as it leaves quite a large space for tables and chairs. The rooms looked very clean, they have been whitewashed and, a few days before the Delegate's visit, deloused. There is a six weeks stock of Red Cross for this detachment and a three weeks supply for the area. As said before, there is a stove for Red Cross food cooking in the small room outside one of the dormitories, the other dormitory has a stove in the room for the men of this room to cook their own private food.

There is a tap for cold water in each dormitory for the men to wash. There are also hot and cold showers available for the men at any time, however, for some time, the boiler has been out of action, so that the men could get no hot showers. It has been promised to the Delegate of the Protecting Power that the boiler will be repaired and that the hot showers will again be available within a week. The showers are on the ground floor and though there is sometimes difficulty for the men to go to the shower due to the lack of guards, they are, however, able to get a shower per day. The Delegate has pointed out to the German military authorities the importance of these hot or cold showers for the men when they come from work, or after their games of football, and it has been promised that a guard will be available more often for the men to go to the bathroom.

The latrine (3 seats, flush-type) is near one of the dormitories and can be used by the men of this dormitory also at night. However, the men of the other dormitory are locked in at night and a bucket with lid is put into their room. This is quite unsatisfactory, and the Delegate has pointed out that there is absolutely no need for locking in these men at night, since the door at the bottom of the stairs is locked and well guarded, thus depriving the men from using the latrines at night. The German military authorities were at first reluctant, however, finally gave the order to the guards to keep this door unlocked at night and allowing the men of this dormitory to use the latrines at night.

The cooking is done outside by German women and is not satisfying the prisoners of war. The man of confidence has great difficulties in being allowed to go to the kitchen. However, this will be remedied by the installation of a kitchen on the floor below the men's quarters. The kitchen will be built in a large room just close to the door below the staircase and will be cut off from the rest of the room by a partition. Since there will be no outside window, the Delegate has requested electric ventilator to be put in to have a constant flow of fresh air come into the kitchen. The kitchen will be made large enough to allow room for a stove for the cooking of the Red Cross food. However, in case this could not be done, the stoves at present in existence will remain. The door at the bottom of the stairs will be put further away in the corridor below so that the men can have access to the kitchen and that it will make part of the living quarters for the men. As soon as the kitchen will be installed, the cooking will be done entirely by the British prisoners of war.

There is one recognised sanitator. The drug supply from the Germans is, with the help of the British supply, quite sufficient to meet the necessary requirements. There is no revier, if a man is sick. he simply stays in his bed. The general state of health is good, very few are sick and there are very few and only minor accidents. The men can see a military doctor twice a week and are receiving very good treatment from him. In case a man falls seriously ill, there is absolutely no trouble in getting him back to Lamsdorf Lazaret. The dental treatment is unsatisfactory, a civilian dentist can be visited twice weekly, but the treatment the men get is bad. This point has been taken up by the Delegate and the Commander has promised to look into the matter and, if possible, make a change.

Each man has two uniforms. When the detachment started, 35 overalls had been issued for those doing the dirtiest work. However, they have been worn out long ago. At the time of the commander of Stalag 344 Lamsdorf visit's to this detachment, he gave order that new overalls should be issued. An order was given for 45 new overalls, which, however, have not arrived yet. The wear and tear of the working uniform of those men working with cement and at the oven is tremendous, and therefore the point of issuing new overalls at great speed has again been stressed by the Delegate. There are no trousers and only a few tunics, as well as 6 pairs of boots in stock, but no boot repair material. The man of confidence is going to the Stalag 344 Lamsdorf in a day or two to replenish his stock of repair-material.

The laundry is being sent out for washing, but since it is not very satisfactorily done, the men do most of their washing themselves.

There is no compound at all. Adjoining the house in which the prisoners of war live is a rather extensive court with grass and shrubs. But since the German workers with their families live on the other side of this court, the prisoners of war are not allowed to use it to prevent them from mingling with the Germans. However, the prisoners of war can go for a swim in the nearby river (Oder) every evening and they are allowed to play football on a nearby football ground three times a week. There is no recreation-room inside the house. The Delegate of the Protecting Power has suggested that a recreation room be made in the large room next to one of the dormitories in which the stock of Red Cross parcels for the area is being kept by shutting them off with a partition. This would still give ample room for a small theater or reading room, where the men could also play cards or have a ping-pong table put in. The accompanying officer from Stalag 344 Lamsdorf, together with the commander, is studying the question and is very much in favour of having this new recreation room installed. This would be a great benefit for the men on rainy days.

Mail is not good due to the temporarily suspension of airmail from England, private parcels satisfactory.

This detachment is quite a good one. The men are quite happy and are looking forward to the time, when the new kitchen is installed and they can do their own cooking. The men appreciate very much the idea of having a recreation room within their billets. Discipline is very good, morale very high and the men realize the interest the camp commander of Stalag 344 Lamsdorf is taking in their well being.

There are 40 British prisoners of war engaged on work in a cement factory. Most men work in the stone quarry, while 4 men are feeding the stoves. The men work 8 hours per day, no work on Sundays, except if coalwagons arrived, which have to be unloaded at once. For these 2 or 3 hours work the men get half a day off during the following week. The only work which the men consider too hard is the work done by the four men feeding the stove, the heat is too much for them. The Delegate of the Protecting Power asked to have these four men removed and put to work in the quarry, however, no promise for an exchange was given by the owner, as apparently there is no one else to do this kind of work.

The men are billeted in two different places about one mile apart. In one small stone house near the factory there are 21 men living in one large room. On the longside wall of this room is one longboard double-tier plank-bed for 22 men. The rest of the room is taken up with chairs and tables. Next to this room is the kitchen in which the prisoners of war cook their own meals. There is a very small compound. The other 19 men are housed in one of the stables about one mile away. It is a very large and high room, stone floor, with again one longboard double-tier plank-bed along one wall. Above it is a tiny window, on the other wall is the big stable-door. The place is damp and infested with flies. Along one of the other walls runs a waterpipe with little holes, where the water comes out for the men to wash. In spite of this there is still plenty of room for the tables and chairs. There is one electric bulb in this very big and dark room, giving practically no light. There is quite a large stove in the room for the men to do their private cooking. There is a good Red Cross parcel supply, however, the Red Cross store is damp and a new one is under construction. Each man has two blankets, however, most of them are so badly worn out, that they are of no use anymore. The eating utensils were very bad consisting of old enamel chipped kidney dishes which, only a few days prior to the Delegate's visit, have been replaced by proper eating bowls.

There is no running water in the small stone house, the men have to fetch the water some distance away, and only lately have received proper washbowls. They wash most of the time outdoors in the small compound.

Next to the small house and inside the compound is the latrine with two seats, none too good. The latrine near the other billet is better.

Food is cooked by the men themselves in the kitchen in the small stone house. The men from the other billet are coming down to get their food. The rations which should be issued Mondays are often only given the following Friday. The reason for this apparently is that the small village nearby has not enough food stock, and very often has to wait for the arrival of the food from the larger centers. This applies especially to marmalade, butter and cereals. Very strong representations have been made by the Delegate, and it has been promised that the complete rations will be issued every Monday.

There is no sanitator in this detachment. However, the man of confidence assured the Delegate that the men can go to see the military doctor twice a week, from whom they get very good and fair treatment. The men are also allowed to see a civilian dentist twice a week, who is also giving very good treatment. The state of health of the men is very good.

Each prisoner of war has two suits. The firm has never issued any working clothes or boots. Overalls have been ordered but have not yet arrived. The men do their own boot repairing, however, they are completely out of repair material. They have been requested to apply for it at Stalag 344.

The men of the main camp send their laundry outside and are very satisfied with the way it is done. The men in the other camp do their own laundry.

The men do not seem to get the minimum pay per day of 70 Pf. An inquiry is being made and, if correct, an adjustment is to be made.

Football is being played every Sunday. Every other day the men can go out practising football or walk in the garden from 6 to 9 p.m. when they are being locked up. There are no indoor games besides playing cards and books.

The men complain of having been too long in this camp, some have been here since September 1941.

This camp is very unsatisfactory. The owner of the firm (Gräfin Strachwitz) has absolutely no interest in the welfare of the prisoners. In an interview with the Delegate of the Protecting Power she mentioned that she cannot obtain any kind of material to build new living quarters for the men. However, she agreed to make some changes, such as covering the floor of the stable with wood, make a window into the stable-door, and, if possible, enlarge the tiny window on the other side of the wall, put in two more stronger bulbs in addition to the one already in existence. She has also promised to make cupboards for both camps and to issue overalls. The Delegate is somewhat sceptical as to these promises and has therefore asked the accompanying officer of the Stalag 344 Lamsdorf to see that entirely new living quarters can be obtained, i.e. that a wooden barrack of the usual type is built as soon as possible, since the few alternatives which have been promised by the owner would still not make it good living quarters for the men, and if this cannot be obtained, that the men will be entirely withdrawn. The accompanying officer has promised to see to it and fully agreed with the Delegate's proposal. Knowing from experience that the camp commander of Stalag 344 Lamsdorf is a man of deeds, the Delegate of the Protecting Power feels somewhat assured that the necessary changes in this camp will be made as soon as possible. This will be verified on the Delegate's next visit.

There are 12 British prisoners of war working in a stone-quarry nine hours per day. Every Sunday free, and if work is required Sundays (unloading coalwagons) the men get compensation during the following week. The work at present is particularly hard since the drill broke down. It is being repaired and should be available again within a short time. The Delegate of the Protecting Power has asked to speed up the repairing of the drill.

This working detachment has been opened in May 1941. The men are accommodated in a private house, where German civilian families live. Two good sized rooms on the ground floor and a small kitchen are at the disposal of the men, one room for sleeping, the other for eating and recreation. The kitchen is next door to the eating room. There are sleeping accommodations for 14 men, double-tier beds, only 12 beds are occupied.

The men wash in the small courtyard near a pump. Bathing is done in one of the old wooden outhouses adjoining the dwelling house. It is a small dark room with a big old fashioned stove to heat the water. There is an old large wooden trough which is used as a tub. The men are allowed a hot bath every day, however, there seem great difficulties, since it takes over an hour for the heating of the water so that only a few men get a bath in the evening. Since there is no compound, the cook is locked up in the rooms until 5 p.m., when the men come back from work. The Delegate of the Protecting Power has asked that the cook be allowed to heat the water in the bathhouse in the afternoon, so that the bath will be ready by the time the men come back from work. It has also been asked that the cook should be allowed to go out a bit during the day and do some gardening. This request was granted.

The latrines are also in one of these outhouses, 2 seats (pit-type) satisfactory. The night latrines consist of the old jam tins without lid, which are put in the eating room near the door to the sleeping room. However, since the windows in the eating room are closed at night due to black-out precaution the odour is unbearable. The Delegate's request to have all the windows open at night and to supply proper wooden buckets with lids has been granted. It was pointed out that there is no reason for the shutting of the windows and shutters at night since the windows have barbed wiring and the electric light is being switched off by the German sentry outside the two rooms.

The cooking is done by one of the men themselves. They take it in turn, one man does the cooking for a fortnight. The men receive the ration cards with which they buy their food at the nearby village. The Red Cross food is pooled. Very satisfactory. The men receive less potatoes, this is being compensated by macaroni. There is a six weeks stock of Red Cross food parcels.

There is no sanitator. The men visit a military doctor at a distance of 7 km., from whom they receive very good and fair treatment. However, there is great difficulty in obtaining a doctor in case of sudden illness. So far there has been no such case. It has been requested that arrangements should be made that a doctor could visit this detachment in case of sudden illness or a serious accident. A very good dentist is also at that village of Stubendorf, 7 km away, who gives good treatment to the men. The state of health of the men is pretty good.

Each man has two uniforms. The boots are in bad condition, there is no repairing material. The man of confidence has been asked to get some of the boots exchanged at Stalag 344 Lamsdorf, and to obtain also repairing material as well as reserve clothing. No overalls have been issued, a request for overalls to the German authorities has been refused on the grounds that no more overalls are issued to men working in stone quarries. The German military authorities have promised to take the matter up again and see to it that overalls are being issued to the men. The blankets are in poor condition and it has been promised that they will be exchanged.

One of the German women in the house is doing the laundry for the men to their satisfaction.

There is no compound. However, across the street running by, there is a large field, in which the men can play football every evening. On Sundays they play football on a nearby football ground. Since there are only twelve men in this commando, they have asked to be allowed to play against another working detachment. At present this is not allowed, however, this question may be taken up at a later date.

This working detachment, though somewhat primitive, cannot be considered as bad, the men are happy and have only one wish, that they are not being parted, since they all get along very well.

The man of confidence has asked whether there would be a chance that they could exchange half of their Red Cross food parcels (English) with those of a nearby working detachment where they have only Canadian parcels. As the contents of the English and Canadian parcels differ somewhat, they would appreciate the exchange. The nearby commando has the same wish and, upon request by the Delegate of the Protecting Power, this wish has been granted by the German military authorities.

This working detachment has been in existence since May 1942. There are 25 British prisoners of war engaged on various types of work in a saw-mill. The working hours are 8½ daily, Saturday afternoons and Sundays are free.

The men are housed in a fairly new stone-house near the saw-mill, which used to be a welfare house for a German organisation. There is a very large wiry room, which is used as sleeping and eating quarters for the men. Double-tier beds with a cupboard for 2 men between the beds, plenty of room for tables and chairs. Next to the sleeping room is a fair size kitchen and further on a large room with built-in basins for washing. The room is fitted with two showers and an old bathtub. There are enough cold water taps, the hot water has to be heated in the kitchen for the bath. The walls are fitted with while tiles. The kitchen has next to the big range also a large stove for the cooking of the Red Cross food. There is a two months supply of Red Cross parcels.

On the ground floor of the house is the latrine, 2 seats (flush-type), very clean, again with white tiled walls.

There is no sanitator. However, one man with good knowledge of first aid remains constantly in the camp to take care of the sick, he does also interpreting. This man is paid by the firm. The men can see a military doctor and a civilian dentist twice a week and receive from both very good and fair treatment. There is no trouble in emergency cases or two have sick men removed to Lamsdorf lazaret. The state of health of the men is very good.

Each man has two suits and one pair of boots. Some of the men have to do work with cement and have never received any overalls. A request for the issuance of overalls for these men has been brought forward by the Delegate of the Protecting Power. Although there are great difficulties in obtaining overalls it is hoped that they will be delivered soon.

There is no compound. The men can go for walks every evening from 7 to 8.30 p.m. or work in the garden. Part of the large garden next door owned by the owner of the saw-mill has been put at the disposal of the men by the wife of the owner, where the sanitator and the cook as well as the man of confidence do gardening almost all day long. Football is being played every Sunday on the village ground. The wife of the owner has lent the men a gramophone, the Stalag has given them ten records, but they have no more needles. The man of confidence goes to Stalag about once every six weeks, on his next visit he will exchange the records and will try to get some needles, which apparently are almost unobtainable. There are no musical instruments. A demand for musical instruments as well as gramophone needles is being forwarded to the Y.M.C.A.

Letters arrive very slow now due to the temporarily suspension of airmail letters from England, private parcels arrive regularly.

This is indeed a very good working detachment. The men are very happy and appreciate greatly the interest the owner of the saw-mill and his wife show to the prisoners of war.

This working detachment has been formed on the 27th May 1944 in a former jewish camp. It consists of 3 wooden barracks in a large compound amidst pine trees near the Shoe factory. The barracks have been deloused and are being cleaned and put in order. A fourth barrack, part of which is within the compound and where there are living quarters and offices of the German military authorities, is being put at the disposal of the prisoners, as soon as the new German barrack outside the compound has been put up. Thus the compound is still being enlarged to take the entire fourth barrack within its boundaries. The men of one of the barracks, which is one large dormitory, will be put into this fourth barrack, the large dormitory then being used as a recreation hall and theatre. The barbed wire around the compound has been reinforced and the wiring on the windows of the barracks will be taken away.

There are 247 British prisoners of war working on various jobs in the shoe factory. This is a very modern building and used to be owned by the famous Bata shoe factory, now being known as the OTA shoe-factory. The men work 9 hours daily (piece-work) for 5 days in the week, on Saturdays they work until 2 p.m.; Saturday afternoons and Sundays are free. There is no complaint about the work except in one department called "Oberleder-Stanzerei", where 4 men are working, cutting out soles from a big piece of raw leather. The men complained that they are being slave-driven like the jews and being continuously watched by the head of the department. When the Delegate talked this point over with the Manager of the firm it was explained to him, that this special department has to be done within a special enclosure due to the precious material being used, so that no workmen can get to this material except those working on it. It is purely a security measure and has absolutely nothing to do with the prisoners of war. Moreover the manager complained that the prisoners of war in this department are very troublesome and are trying not to do the work properly so as to be taken into another department. The Delegate, however, asked the manager to investigate and to see that the head of this special department treats the men decently to prevent any further friction. The manager explained further that the output required of the prisoners of war is only 80% of that of the German workers, which seems quite justified, since it is not considered hard work.

Washing and bathing facilities are satisfactory, hot and cold showers every day.

It has been asked that the seats of the latrines (Pit-type) be changed, as there seems to be some kind of bugs in the wooden part of the seats. It has been promised that this will be seen to.

There are 3 recognised sanitators with a revier of seven beds. The men can go to see a military doctor at Gogolin, who gives fair and good treatment. However, before a man can see the doctor on this visit, the manager of the firm who accompanies him, sees the doctor first and afterwards decides himself whether a man is fit for work or not in spite of the doctor's orders. Strong representations have been made by the Delegate that in future the doctor's decision be taken bona fide, and that the manager should act according to the doctor's orders.

The sanitator has asked to be allowed to go to the factory to give first aid in case of accident. However, this was not allowed since there is a first-aid station at the factory, where the prisoners of war can get the same treatment as the German workers.

The majority of men have two suits and one pair of boots. The boots are in bad condition. There are two cobblers, but they have no repair material. The firm cannot give any material except for smaller repairs, therefore, the repair material has to be asked from Stalag 344. There are also two tailors and one barber in the camp. A sewing machine has been given by the firm. Overalls have been supplied by the firm for about one fourth of the men.

The laundry can be sent out, but since the washing machine broke down, the men do their own washing until the machine is repaired. So far no soap or washing powder has been issued by the firm for washing the working clothes; however, a supply of this material has been promised for the end of the month.

So far the men were able to play football on two Sundays. The football field is owned by the firm and is at a distance of about 20 minutes walk. The ground is often used by the Hitler youth, and is therefore not always available. The compound, however, is large enough for the men to play any other kind of ball game; this, however, has to be organised first by the men themselves. The men have asked for a rope for a boxing ring, as well as various musical instruments, a list of which is being forwarded to the Y.M.C.A.

Letters arrive slowly due to the temporarily suspension of airmail from England, private parcels are being received regularly.

The men have asked for cupboards in their rooms. According to a new order from the OKW no cupboards are being given to prisoners of war anymore. The Swiss Legation will take this matter up with the OKW directly.

This camp is still under reconstruction. Once finished it promises to be a very good camp, and if all the difficulties which have been brought forward are overcome, the men should be quite content and happy.

This working detachment has been in existence for the last 15 months. 113 British prisoners of war (full capacity 126 men) are billeted in an old school building, mostly treble-tier beds in six different rooms, where there is ample-room for tables and chairs for the men to eat. The general living conditions are reasonably good.

The men have to do 9 hours work daily, most of them work in a stone-quarry, while some of them work at the stove in the cement factory. Every Sunday is free and if men are asked to work Sundays they receive full compensation during the following week. The men at the oven complain that the heat is unbearable and the work too strenuous. Those men who do night shift complain that owing to lack of lights their work is both difficult and dangerous, this being substantiated by the number of accidents (though slight ones) which occur at night.

The food is cooked outside by civilians and is said that it could not be done better by the men themselves. There are enough stoves for the cooking of private food, however, there is absolutely no fuel for these stoves, so that the men cannot do anymore private cooking. Apparently a new place is being arranged with a big range for private cooking and should be finished shortly. This is being done particularly so that the men working on nightshift can benefit by it. So far these men had great difficulties in doing their private cooking.

There is a six weeks supply of Red Cross parcels. The area Red Cross man, Sgt. Humphreys POW No. 16595 has a supply of Red Cross parcels for the area for 3 months. The room in which the Red Cross parcels for the area are being kept, is damp, little help seems to be given for a better room.

There is one recognised sanitator, but no revier. If a man gets sick or meets with an accident, he is simply kept in his bed. A German military doctor comes to the camp twice a week and is giving satisfactory treatment. For serious illnesses or accidents the men are sent at once to a lazaret at Cosel or Gross-Strelitz. It has been said that if the Doctor puts a man on light work, the foreman always puts these men on nightshift. The state of health of the men in general is not too bad. Civilian Dentist satisfactory.

Each man has two suits and one pair of boots. After very long negotiation the men working at the oven have been supplied with a small apron and some kind of boots of some sort of rubber composition. However this is not good enough, the intense heat combined with the chemical action of the lime has disastrous effects upon British Red Cross clothing and boots.

Two men have been designated to do the laundry. However since neither tubs, washbowls, soap or any other implements have been given by the firm, each man is doing his own laundry. The military authorities have given an order to the manager to deliver these implements at once.

The men are allowed to play football every Sunday and often evenings during the week, however, they claim to be too tired to play evenings. There is a boxing ring in the small courtyard, there is no compound. There is a theatre on the third floor of the building. There are plenty of musical instruments, books and games. The theatre is also used for indoor sports with a table-tennis, however, the men have no more balls and the request for table-tennis balls is being transmitted to the Y.M.C.A.

Due to the temporarily suspension of airmail from England, letters are slow and few, private parcels arrive regularly.

The man of confidence has shown to the Delegate of the P.P. a very tiny room in one of the small outhouses across the courtyard, which serves as prison for punishment. This room is very damp, infested with rats. One part of the floor is somewhat elevated on which the men have to sleep (wooden board). There is practically no light and no air. The Delegate of the P.P. strongly protested to the Control Officer and demanded that a better place be found for the men to be put for punishment.

Although the general living conditions are not too bad, the camp itself, with all the difficulties coming from the firm, cannot be considered adequate. The Delegate of the P.P. has asked the accompanying officer from Stalag 344 Lamsdorf to report to the Camp Commander of the Stalag, that in case not immediate alterations are being made and better working conditions are being given by the firm, the men should be withdrawn and the camp closed as a British working detachment.

Below is a copy of a letter sent to the Control Officer of this camp on the 12.7.1944.

Since then I have heard nothing more, i.e., of the camp being moved, or even an acknowledgement of this letter.

The position of this camp is extremely close to the main part of the factory, which actually extends on both sides. In the event of aerial attack, this close proximity would expose the Prisoners of War to unnecessary danger of loss of life, I feel that an effort should be made to have the camp removed to a safer locality.

My reasons in the above letter for the camp still holds, and I consider that it should be moved.

Report on Stalag 344 visited 26th to 27th June containing 9525 main camp 9658 in 237 detachments 576 in hospital, states water supply still insufficient, bathing latrine facilities therefore still inadequate.

Following points brought to attention of Swiss representative by men of confidence following detachments: E 114 48 men in accommodation for 30, latrines too close to sleeping quarters, no working clothes issued by firm. E42 latrines adjoin sleeping quarters, old working clothes not replaced, inadequate exercise facilities. E355 blankets very thin, insufficient recreational facilities. E 348 and E 398 no complaints. E606 compound too small, insufficient fuel for private cooking. E276 order issued by control officer states anyone seen outside house after 8 p.m. lock-up will be shot without warning, this in force pending completion new camp. E250 no complaints. E354 Kommando Fuehrer decides whether prisoners fit for work and confiscates leftover Red Cross food. E600 no complaints.

Following prisoners under arrest by order of O.K.W. for interrogation Corporal G.A. Armstrong P.O.W. No. 26158, Fogg R.A.F. No. 26858, Corporal George Greenwell P.O.W. No. 26140/VIIIB. Swiss are endeavouring to obtain further information.

Although camp numbers still not normal, present strength has improved, living conditions improvement water supply apparently impossible under present conditions in Germany.

Following points mentioned report certain detachments STALAG 344 visited 28th to 30th June: 117 Bolko 38 prisoners concrete factory 8 hours daily sleeping quarters rather overcrowded man of confidence cannot control rations. 118 Bolko 37 prisoners linseed cake factory 8 to 10 hours daily satisfactory. E165 64 prisoners loading barges and waggons 8 hours daily accommodation bad man of confidence has no control rations new barrack under construction. E196 66 prisoners cement factory 10 hours daily dental treatment unsatisfactory STO E275 40 prisoners cement factory 7 hours daily 19 men accommodated damp stable infested flies washing facilities inadequate camp very unsatisfactory. E100 12 prisoners stone quarry 9 hours daily no serious complaints. E428 25 prisoners sawmill 8-1/2 hours daily satisfactory. E770 247 prisoners shoe factory 9 hours daily camp still under reconstruction. E132 stonequarry 9 hours daily men on night shift complain work difficult and dangerous owing to lack light punishment cell in very small damp rat infested room practically no light or air Swiss representative protested camp cannot be considered adequate, requested withdrawal prisoners if immediate alterations not made.

I respectfully beg to advise you of representation which has been made of the deplorable conditions being borne by the Arbeits-Kommandos in the area of REIGERSFIELD.

These conditions arose after the air attack of five weeks ago, and have gradually become worse, particularly at A.Kdo. E.711. At the recent air raid, two camps suffered much material damage - one death and a number of wounded.

The following points concerning A.Kdo. E.711 are put forward in protest against this continuance:

1. The POW were forced to work on the day following the last air raid, among unexploded bombs;

2. Two of the sub-kommandos from E.711 have been forced to work for four (4) consecutive weeks without break;

3. Orders effective from 11th August decree that British POW will work daily, including Saturdays and Sundays from 0600 hrs. to 1800 hrs. The hours, on paper, do not appear unduly long, but when consideration is given to the facts that, in the area, the men on return from work have to carry water for drinking purposes from nearby villages and have to live in unlit barracks, the conditions are almost intolerable;

4. The daily practice of encouraging the men to do task work on the completion of which they are forced to do other work at the treatment of bayonet and revolver. The revolvers are in most cases held by civilian meisters;

5. As the result of the deceptive practice mentioned above, two prisoners of war were on 12th August beaten with rifles:

A request is being made to the Protecting Power that representation should be made for the removal of POW from this dangerous area, and in the meantime I would be grateful if you would investigate the conditions mentioned above, with a view to bringing about some relief.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs have the honour to transmit herewith to the Swiss Legation, Foreign Interests Division, a communication from the Chief Man of Confidence at M.Stammlager 344 dated 27th July 1944.

It may be mentioned in this connection that the prisoners of war are not more exposed to bombardments than German and foreign workers employed at the same place of work. The enemy states makes no distinction between civilian and military objectives; even persons working in fields and people going for walks are attacked by aircraft. Under the circumstances there is no reason for transferred the work detachment.