CONFIDENTIAL

No.688

BRITISH / AMERICAN

STALAG IVA HOHNSTEIN

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Strength of the Stalag

in 60 British and 7 American Working Detachments.

Date of visit: January 22nd. 1945.

DISCUSSIONS AT HOHNSTEIN

        A) Chief Man of Confidence

                Before the discussion with the Stalag Commandant, the Delegate of the Protecting Power had a meeting with the Chief Man of Confidence of the Stalag, Sgt. SMITH, where the following points were brought up:

                1) Main-camp

                        The Chief Man of Confidence reported no change in the general lay-out of the main-camp at Hohnstein. Living accommodations, washing and toilet facilities are still satisfactory. At the moment there are 42 British and 5 American Ps.o.W. at Hohnstein. The staff (included in the above number) is formed by:

                        Capt. H.W. WYKES, British Medical Officer

                        Mr. R.R. DAVEY, YMCA Secretary

                        Sgt. SMITH, Chief Man of Confidence

                        2 Medical Orderlies

                        1 cook and

                        8 others Ps.o.W. working for the benefit of their fellow prisoners in this Stalag.

                2) Red Cross Parcels

                        The stock of Red Cross food parcels is very low at the moment. The working detachments are issuing their last parcels. At the Stalag there is a small reserve of 400 food parcels, which amounts to nothing in comparison with the 5000 British and American prisoners in the Stalag area. Red Cross at Geneva was informed of the situation and it is hoped that new supplies will arrive within days.

                3) Medical Attention

                        Capt. H.W. WYKES reported the following medical attention:

                        "I have been working as Medical Officer at Stalag Hohnstein since October 3rd, 1944. There is a Stalag revier of 25 beds, 8 of which are at present occupied by British sick. Serious cases are sent to Koenigswartha, Schmorkau or, in the case of TB, to Elsterhorst lazarets. The usual transport difficulties are met with but so far no serious difficulties have been experienced. Two Medical Orderlies are working in the revier.

                        "Drugs. A fair supply of drugs are obtainable from the German revier and at the moment a good supply of British drugs are at hand.

                        "Visits paid by me to Kommandos. The position here is not as good as it might be. Occasionally I am allowed to visit in the immediate neighbourhood, but not as much as I would like.

                        "Attitude of German Medical Staff. On the whole this is the best I have yet experienced. I am able to obtain help and cooperation of the German Medical Officers in straightening out many difficulties which arise in the various Kommandos in the Stalag.

                        "Medical facilities in the Kommandos. In general this is satisfactory, German M.Os. visiting Kommandos twice weekly. Occasionally difficulties and injustices arise in which case I am notified through this office and am usually able to obtain help from the German Stalag M.O.

                        "Dental Treatment. In the case of Kommandos this is obtained locally, and is satisfactory. In the case of men requiring dental plates, the position is, however, not so satisfactory. These men must first obtain a chit from the local dentist saying they require false teeth, and this must be submitted to the Chefarzt. The men are sent for to the Stalag. Unfortunately there is no British dentist in the whole Stalag."

                4) Clothing.

                        Regarding old prisoners, the situation is fairly good, every prisoner having been supplied with 2 Red Cross outfits. But various difficulties arise regarding the clothing of the recently captured soldiers. Their British uniform is often declared as war booty and taken away, and not always good clothing substituted. Especially the supply with underwear and socks is such, that old prisoners have to give parts of their belongings to the new-comers, as the Detaining Power is in no position to do so.

                5) Religious Activity.

                        There is only one British Chaplain in the Stalag, Mr. R.R. DAVEY. He is allowed to visit the Kommandos and takes advantage of this permission as often as possible.

                        Regarding Roman Catholics it could be arranged that either a French padre is allowed to visit them in the British camps, or that Roman Catholic prisoners can go to French camps to assist in the Divine Services.

                6) American Chief Man of Confidence.

                        The British Chief Man of Confidence gave the information that an American Chief Man of Confidence will be called to Hohnstein to act on behalf of the American prisoners in the Stalag.

                7) Report of Death.

                        Sgt. Smith reported the death of a British P.O.W., killed in the air-raid on Dresden on January 16th, 1945; Pte. Lea NORMAN, POW No. 278986. Address of his next-of-kin and his Reg.No. could not be obtained on the day of visit, but will be transmitted later on.

        B) Stalag Commandant.

                At the end of the tour, the Delegate of the Protecting Power had a long discussion with the Stalag Commandant, Oberst Kratz, where various matters were taken up. The main points were:

                1) Working Detachment No. 1091, Neukirch.

                        The Delegate protested against the living accommodations in this camp and asked the Stalag Commandant to improve the conditions or to transfer the camp. Oberst Kratz promised to inspect the said working detachment. If the manager of the factory did not agree to the necessary improvements, the camp would be transferred.

                2) Pullovers.

                        Bdr. R. PHILLIPS, District Man of Confidence of the Freital area reported that in Spring 1944 80 pullovers, some British Army issue, some received by men in their personal parcels in Italy and some Red Cross issue were removed from British Ps.o.W. in his district for "safe-keeping". With the arrival of cold weather the prisoners asked that their pullover should now be given back. The German Oberzahlmeister refused and told them that the pullovers had already been distributed to prisoners of other nationalities who had none.

                        The Delegate asked the Stalag Commandant  to explain to him why these pullovers were not returned, and why they were at least not distributed among British prisoners. The Stalag Commandant could give no satisfactory reply and promised to make thorough inquiries and to give the Chief Man of Confidence satisfaction.

                3) Some minor points were settled on the spot.

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WORKING DETACHMENTS DEPENDING ON STALAG IV A HOYERSWERDA DISTRICT.

District Man of Confidence: Sgt. E. MILLER, POW No. 12919 Strength: 720 British Ps.o.W. in 7 working detachments. When visiting 5 of these working detachments, the Delegate of the Protecting Power was accompanied by Sgt. E. MILLER.

Date of visit: January 15th, 1945.

Working Detachment No. 502, GRUBE BRIGITT

Man of Confidence: Cpl. F. LUSTACE, POW No. 95613

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        There has been no change since our last visit in September 1944. No military targets lie in the neighbourhood of the camp, which is provided with covered slit-trenches.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        140 British Ps.o.W. including Capt. D.C. CLAY, NZMC, POW No. 228240, acting as British Medical Officer.

        All prisoners are working for the Grube Brigitta, mostly repairing and laying rails or loading and unloading wagons. The amount of daily demanded work is based on 10 hours, but is usually done in 6 hours. The time gained is entirely at the disposal of the prisoners. Every second Sunday is free.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        The living quarters, described in previous reports, as well as lighting and heating, are satisfactory.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES

        Good, the prisoners enjoy daily hot showers.

V) TOILET FACILITIES

        Good.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        The food supplied by the Detaining Power is cooked by German women in the central-cookhouse, whereas Red Cross food can be prepared on two stoves in the camp itself.

        The store-room of Red Cross parcels, unfortunately empty on the day of visit, lies outside the camp. One of the two keys is in the possession of the Man of Confidence.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        Capt. D.C. CLAY is in charge of the small revier of this camp. I [Note: Possibly a Roman numeral to indicate 1] recognised British Medical Orderly.

        Of the 15 patients in the revier none is a serious case, the sickness being boils, influenza and such.

        Medicaments and drugs are mostly supplied by the Reserve-lazaret Elsterhorst. The actual stock is large enough to last one month.

        Serious cases are taken to Koenigswartha, where all operations are carried out.

        Prisoners in need of dental treatment are sent to Elsterhorst, where a French dentist is working in a satisfactory way.

        On the whole, Capt. CLAY gave a good report on the revier, which will gain by the new room still under construction.

VIII) CLOTHING

        Every man has two complete outfits.

IX) LAUNDRY

        Laundry is sent out and done by a woman in the village.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        Correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        Only beer is available.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        On rare occasions this camp has been visited by a British padre.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        Both, indoor entertainment and outdoor recreation are satisfactory.

XIV) MAIL

        Since Christmas mail is stated to be slow. Letters from England take up to 2 months to arrive.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        On October 1944, a YMCA Representative paid a visit to this camp, which was much appreciated by the prisoners.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        The only complaint put forward to the Delegate of the Protecting Power concerned the bad state of the issued blankets. It was promised that as many worn out blankets will be exchanged against new ones, as available.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        Grube Brigitta is a good camp.

Date of visit: January 15th 1945.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1225, GRUBE LOHSA

Man of Confidence: R.Q.M.S. W.J. BOTHA, POW No. 75490

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        No change in the general lay-out of the camp. The covered air raid shelters are stated to be excellent. No military targets in the neighbourhood.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        134 South African Ps.o.W. including 3 recognised NCOs. Some of the men are working on the surface for the mine, and a part are building new roads. They have to do 8 - 9 hours a day and have every second Sunday free.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        Living accommodations are very good. No complaints about lighting or heating.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES

        Satisfactory.

V) TOILET FACILITIES

        Satisfactory.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        Two prisoners are preparing the meals in a well equipped camp kitchen. The stock of Red Cross parcels (at the moment 1 parcel per man) is stored in a safe room outside the camp-compound. One of the 2 keys is held by the Man of Confidence.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        Two recognised sanitators are in charge of the small revier, which on the day of visit housed 6 patients. 5 other patients are lying in the Reserve-lazaret Koenigswartha and 1 in Schmorkau. None of them is a serious case. Twice a week, sickparade is held by a German civilian doctor. Dental treatment is given by a dentist at Lohsa. The supply of drugs and the general state of health are said to be satisfactory.

VIII) CLOTHING

        The clothing situation is good, every man has 2 complete outfits.

IX) LAUNDRY

        is sent out and works satisfactorily.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        are correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        As everywhere, beer is available.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        During the last 3 months the camp was visited once by the YMCA Chaplain, Mr. DAVEY.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        Good facilities for outdoor and indoor recreation.

XIV) MAIL

        from South Africa is slow.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        The YMCA Representative visited this camp in October.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        None.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        Lohsa is the best camp in this district.

        The South Africa camp paper the "Veld" is distributed monthly in 16 - 18 copies to this camp. One of these is attached to this report.

Date of visit: January 15th, 1945

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 531, GRUBE OSTFELD

Man of Confidence: Cpl. N. VASEY, POW No. 95798

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        No change since our last visit in September 1944. There are no military targets near the camp, which includes good covered air-raid shelters.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        90 British Ps.o.W. The prisoners are employed in workshops, cleaning the rails and forest work, 7 - 10 hours daily. Only every 3rd Sunday is free.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        The living quarters, consisting in a barrack with wooden double-tier beds and a small dining compartment, are infested and not very homely. This will be changed for the better, when the new barrack, now under construction, is finished in approximately 2 months time. Heating and lighting are in order.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES

        Adequate, but rather primitive.

V) TOILET FACILITIES

        Adequate, but rather primitive.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        Food is cooked by 2 prisoners in the camp kitchen. A stock of Red Cross parcels for 2 weeks only is left in the store room outside the camp. As before, the Man of Confidence holds one key.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        Twice a week sickparade is held by a Civilian doctor. The light cases stay in the camp and are looked after by the recognised sanitator, while serious cases are taken to the lazaret at Koenigswartha. On the day of visit 4 patients were there, but none of them dangerously ill. The dentist at Lohsa also treats the prisoners of this camp. There is a small first aid outfit.

VIII) CLOTHING

        Every man has now 2 Red Cross Outfits.

IX) LAUNDRY

        Laundry is done by a German woman, helped by one of the prisoners.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        are correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        Beer is available.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        The YMCA Chaplain paid a visit from time to time.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        Nothing to report.

XIV) MAIL

        Nothing to report.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        The Delegate of the YMCA visited this camp in last October.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        It was stated by the Man of Confidence that prisoners had to act as beaters in huntings. Promise was given by the German authorities that this will be stopped at once.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        Once the new barrack is finished, the living quarters and the revier will become satisfactory. At the time being the camp is not inadequate, but not very satisfactory either.

Date of visit: January 16th, 1945.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 508, GRUBE ERIKA

Man of Confidence: C.I.W. TURLER, POW No. 6297

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        No change whatsoever since our last visit in September 1944. The nearest military targets are the Lautawerke, some 2-3 miles away, which were bombed on the day of visit. No harm came to the camp or the men who sought protection in the open slit-trenches.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        293 British Ps.o.W. They work on the railway of the Grube. Although the official working hours are 10 a day, the men finish the required piece-work in 6-7 hours. At least every third Sunday is free.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        Accommodation has not changed and is still satisfactory, as well as heating and lighting facilities.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES

        The wash-house was renovated and hot showers are now available whenever wanted.

V) TOILET FACILITIES

        is order.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        The food is cooked in a central cook-house. Unfortunately it is not possible to give a separate kitchen to the British prisoners, who would prefer to do their own cooking. The actual situation is not always working satisfactorily, but controlled by the Kommandofuehrer.

        Red Cross parcels, the stock of which is very low at the moment, are kept in a store-room out-side the camp. Although the Man of Confidence has no key, he can control them very closely.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        Two recognised sanitators are in charge of the small revier with 9 beds. On the day of visit only 2 beds were occupied by influenza cases. 3 sick from this camp are lying in lazaret Koenigswartha.

        The supply of drugs and medicaments by the Red Cross and the Stalag (the latter amounting to 25% of Red Cross Supply) is stated to be fairly good. Sickparade daily by 2 Polish doctors and twice a week by a civilian doctor. A Polish dentist is in charge of the dental treatment, such as fillings and extractions. Dentures can only be supplied by the Stalag.

VIII) CLOTHING

        Clothing situation is good, every prisoner having 2 outfits.

IX) LAUNDRY

        is sent out.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        Correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        only beer is available.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        A lay-preacher is holding Services every Sunday. Once in a while, the camp is visited by the Chaplain living in the Stalag.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        A large recreation-hall, destined for prisoners of all nationalities and a smaller one for British only are at the disposal of the inmates of this camp. Also outdoor recreation is well organised.

XIV) MAIL

        Mail from England takes 3 to 4 weeks to arrive in Germany.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        The camp was visited by a Delegate of the YMCA in October last year.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        None.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        This is a good camp.

Date of visit: January 16th, 1945

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 543, GRUBE HEYE III

Man of confidence: Sgt. T.R. VOLLER, POW No. 95730

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        No change. Good air-raid shelters are provided for the prisoners, although there are no military targets in the neighbourhood.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        45 English Ps.o.W. They are employed on railway and surface work in the mine, 10 hours a day. They have to work on two Sundays out of three.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        Living accommodation, lighting and heating are satisfactory.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES

        Once a week, every man has a hot shower.

V) TOILET FACILITIES

        in order.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        Every man is his own cook. Cooking facilities and fuel supplies are adequate.

        The stock of Red Cross parcels is kept in a safe room outside the compound. One key is in the possession of the Man of Confidence.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        A German civilian doctor holds sickparade twice a week. The lighter cases stay in the camp, where a recognised sanitator is looking after them. Patients who have to stay longer in bed are transferred to lazaret. On the day of visit 2 were in Koenigswartha and 2 in Schwatz-Kolmin, none of them serious cases.

        For dental treatment, patients have to go to the Grube Erika, to a Polish dentist.

VIII) CLOTHING

        satisfactory.

IX) LAUNDRY

        One prisoner is in charge of the laundry. This arrangement works satisfactorily.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        only beer.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        Every 5 to 6 months this camp is visited by the padre from Stalag.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        Good facilities for recreation.

XIV) MAIL

        nothing new to report.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        visit of a YMCA Representative in October 1944.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        Apart from the minor complaints, such as want of more washing bowls and supplementary soap supply, which could be settled on the spot by discussing them with the camp authorities, no serious complaints were brought to the knowledge of the Delegate of the Protecting Power.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        This is a satisfactory camp.

BAUTZEN DISTRICT

District Man of Confidence: Cpl. T. MARSHALL, POW No. 95923

Strength: 393 British Ps.o.W.

Date of visit: January 18th, 1945.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1274, Wagonfabrik Bautzen

Man of Confidence: Pte. L.S. SWABEY, POW No. 258132

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        The camp has been transferred to another barrack since our last visit, a transfer through which it has gained much.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        70 British Ps.o.W. are employed 10 hours daily on timber work. As a rule there is no Sunday work.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        The large sleeping room is furnished with new wooden double-tier beds. A tidy dining-room. Every prisoner has his own cupboard, where he keeps clothing and personal things. Lighting and heating facilities are good.

        Apart from the wagon-factory, which may be considered as military target, there is nothing which could justify a bombardment of the area. The air-raid shelters constructed by the prisoners themselves, are not yet finished.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES

        Every Saturday afternoon prisoners have hot showers in the factory.

V) TOILET FACILITIES

        Adequate.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        From a week ago, prisoners have their own cook, who prepares the meals in the camp-kitchen.

        Red Cross parcels are kept in a safe room, just outside the fence. The Man of Confidence has no key, but is always present when parcels are distributed.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        Men who report sick are examined every day by a German military doctor. If patients need medical observation by a Medical Officer, they are transferred to a lazaret. On the day of visit, two men were in Hohnstein, in the Stalag revier, one in Koenigswartha and 1 in Schmorkau.

        I recognised sanitator with a well assorted first-aid equipment is looking after the lighter cases in the camp.

        For dental treatment, visits are arranged in the P.O.W. revier at Bautzen. General state of health is good.

VIII) CLOTHING

        The clothing position is satisfactory, apart from a shortage of boots, some men having only one pair.

IX) LAUNDRY

        Every week, laundry is sent out.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        Correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        Beer, as everywhere, is available.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        This camp has only been once visited by a padre.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        Good facilities for recreation and entertainment are provided.

XIV) MAIL

        Nothing new to report.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        Nothing to report.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        Some minor complaints could be settled on the spot.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        This is a good camp.

Date of visit: January 18th, 1945.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1184, KRONPRINZ KIRSCHAU

Man of Confidence: Driver J.M. CHAPMAN, POW No. 253186.

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        No change since our last visit.

        The nearby factory, formerly manufacturing blankets, is now producing airplane pistons. - By increasing the strength of the camp, the slit-trenches have become too small, but will be enlarged at once.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        97 British Ps.o.W., loading and unloading wagons, work 10 hours a day. Sunday work is very exceptional and prisoners are then getting compensation on Saturday afternoon.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        There is a big hall, used as sleeping and dining-room. Every prisoner has a cupboard. No complaints about lighting and heating.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES

        There is no running water in the camp, which causes inconvenient washing facilities during the winter time. To improve the situation, prisoners are allowed to use the washing facilities and hot showers in the factory. These are good.

V) TOILET FACILITIES

        In order.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        No complaints about food or cooking.

        Red Cross parcels are still inside the camp. The Man of Confidence and the Kommandofuehrer each have a key.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        There is no recognised sanitator in the camp. One of the prisoners, Pte. GRENNBERG, POW No. 258499, had some training before the war and is looking after his fellow prisoners. It was possible to arrange two free afternoons for him.

        Twice a week, sickparade is held by a German military doctor. Dental treatment by a civilian dentist in Kirschau is stated to be excellent.

VIII) CLOTHING

        In order.

IX) LAUNDRY

        is sent out.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        Correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        Beer as usual.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        The YMCA padre from Hohnstein visited this camp from time to time. A French Roman Catholic padre pays regular visits to the camp.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        Both, indoor recreation and sports facilities are good.

XIV) MAIL

        Mail from England takes about one month to arrive.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        Nothing to report.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        No serious complaints.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        This camp may be considered as good.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1091, NEUKIRCH

Man of Confidence: Pte. W.J. ROXBY, POW No. 5947. (Interview at Kirschau)

Strength of the camp: 20 British Ps.o.W. including 1 sanitator (not recognised).

Nature of work: 9 hours light work in the Kafferfabrik Lehmann. Saturday afternoon and Sunday free.

Red Cross Parcels: Stores in a separate room outside the camp. Man of Confidence has one of the keys. At the moment the stock is exhausted.

Medical attention: By German civilian doctor. Dental treatment by civilian dentist. Medical attention and general state of health are stated to be good.

Air-raid shelters: No air-raid shelters are provided for the prisoners. Neukirch is a very small village with no military targets and prisoners consider ARP not necessary.

Complaints: 1) Living accommodations are bad and the Delegate of the Protecting Power asked the Stalag Commandant to improve conditions or to transfer the camp. (Please see page 4 of this report).

        2) The Man of Confidence is working and has difficulties to get the time off for the work as representative of his fellow-prisoners. The German Officer in charge of the district promised to inform the manager of the factory of Article 44 of the Geneva Convention. In future the Man of Confidence will receive what is due to him.

Date of visit: Jan.18th, 1945.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1007, ZUCKERFABRIK LOEBAU.

Man of Confidence: Tr. F.W. JACKSON, POW No. 255943.

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION.

        No change since our last visit. In a case of an air-raid, the prisoners are gathered in a tunnel which provides good protection. There are no military targets in the neighbourhood.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL.

        204 British Ps.o.W. including 50 Canadians, treated the same as the other British prisoners. They are working 8 hours a day in the sugar-factory. As a rule there is no Sunday work, apart from the time of the sugar-season, when only ever third Sunday is free.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS.

        Good living quarters with double-tier beds. Lighting and heating are adequate.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES.

        In order.

V) TOILET FACILITIES.

        Due to the big increase in the last 2 or 3 weeks, toilet facilities are inadequate in so far as there are only 6 seats in the camp-lavatory. 80 men are due to leave this week. This will restore the normal strength of this camp and toilet facilities will again be sufficient.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING.

        The cooking of the food is done by 2 Ps.O.W. The arrangement is stated to work satisfactorily.

        Red Cross parcels are stored in a safe room in the factory. 1 key is given to the Man of Confidence. The stock is, like in all working detachments of this Stalag, low and amounts to one issue.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        Sick people are daily presented to a French military doctor. 1 recognised British sanitator in the camp. Drugs and medicaments are supplied by the Red Cross and German authorities.

        Dental treatment by a civilian dentist is excellent.

VIII) CLOTHING

        The Man of Confidence described the clothing position as "not too bad".

IX) LAUNDRY is sent out.

X) MONEY AND PAY are correct.

XI) CANTEEN. Only one beer is available.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY.

        Every Sunday Divine Services are held by a lay-preacher. In future a French Roman Catholic padre will be allowed to hold Services for the Catholics in the camp.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE.

        Nothing special to report.

XIV) MAIL

        Mail from Canada is stated to be quicker and more regular than English mail.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        A representative of the YMCA visited this camp in October last year.

XVI) COMPLAINTS. None.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION.

        On the day of visit, the camp was slightly overcrowded. But this state was only for a short time, and the next day 80 prisoners were to leave this camp.

        On the whole, the camp is good.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 953, HUSTE & LIEBE, LOEBAU

Man of Confidence: Gun. E.A. IXER, POW No. 96041

(Interview at Loebau 1007)

Strength: 26 British Prisoners of War.

Nature of Work: 9 hours a day of cementwork, buildings. There is no Sunday work.

Red Cross parcels: The stock is kept in the safe room of the Working Detachment No. 1007 (Sugar-factory).

Medical Attention: There is no sanitator. Daily sickparade. Medical attention and state of health is stated to be good.

Air-raid shelters: Slit-trenches. No military targets in the neighbourhood.

Complaints: None.

Date of visit: January 19th, 1945.

DISTRICT DRESDEN RECHTS

District Man of Confidence: Pte. H.E. CRAMP, POW No. 248293

Strength: 473 British Ps.O.W. in 6 working detachments.

Camp Visited: No. 1325, Madaus & Co.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1325, Madaus & Co. RADEBEUL.

Man of Confidence: Pte. F. McNAUGHTON, POW No. 1237

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        Two barracks with a small compound from this camp. Covered air-raid shelters are at the disposal of the prisoners. No military targets near the camp.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        68 British Ps.O.W., working 9 hour a day loading and unloading wagons in the factory of Dr. Madaus (Heilkraeuter). Very seldom Sunday work is requested.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        One barrack is furnished with double-tier beds and some tables and chairs for the dining-room. The other barrack contains a kitchen and some store-rooms. Every prisoner has 3 blankets. Lighting and heating are satisfactory.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES  )

V) TOILET FACILITIES                                    ) In order

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        3 British cooks are preparing the meals for their comrades. The kitchen is well equipped and kept clean. No complaints.

        The store-room for Red Cross parcels, unfortunately empty at the moment, it outside the camp. One of the 2 keys is kept by the Man of Confidence.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        1 recognised sanitator. A German civilian doctor visits the camp every Wednesday. In a case of accident or sudden illness men are brought to the doctor on any day.

        Dental treatment by a civilian dentist.

        On the day of visit, 2 patients were at Schmorkau and 2 at Koenigswartha.

VIII) CLOTHING

        Apart from 4 new-comers, everyone has 2 Red Cross outfits.

IX) LAUNDRY

        Satisfactory, sent out.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        Correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        Beer is available. The factory supplies a small amount of tooth paste and tooth powder.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        None.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        As the camp has been recently opened, there are only a few books, games and musical instruments in the camp. Outdoor Recreation facilities are good.

XIV) MAIL

        Only a few letters arrived since November 1944, when the men were transferred to this camp.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        Nothing to report.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        Some minor complaints were settled when discussing the points with the German camp authorities.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        The new camp makes a good impression.

Date of visit: January 19th, 1945.

DISTRICT DRESDEN LINKS

District Man of Confidence: Pte. J.E. ELLIS, POW No. 11830

Strength: 471 British and 201 American Ps.O.W. in 7 British and 2 American working detachments.

Visited: American camp No. 1308, Dresden.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1308, Noethnitzerstrasse, DRESDEN

Man of Confidence: Pte. Caressimo, POW No. 81570

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        No change since our last visit in September 1944. Good covered air-raid shelters, destined for the prisoners, lie near the camp. There are no military targets in the neighbourhood.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        51 American Ps.O.W. are employed on the same kind of work as before, building concrete barracks. They work 8 hours a day and have every Sunday free.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        Still satisfactory. Every man has 2 blankets, heating is reported to be good.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES  )

V) TOILET FACILITIES                                    ) Good

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        Two German women, helped by 2 prisoners are cooking in the large kitchen in the barrack.

        Red Cross parcels are stored in another barrack just across the road. One key is in the possession of the Man of Confidence.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        Two men of the fighting troops, but trained as sanitators are looking after the sick people. A German doctor can be called in or people presented to him when necessary.

        For dental treatment, patients have to go to Dresden.

        On the day of visit there were no patients, neither here nor in a lazaret.

VIII) CLOTHING

        Every man has 1 Red Cross outfit now. The shortage of underwear will be reported to the Chief Man of Confidence who will inform the Red Cross at Geneva of the poor situation.

IX) LAUNDRY is sent out.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        Correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        For some time no beer has been available in the Dresden area. Prisoners can only have lemonade.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        None.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        The Man of Confidence gave a favourable report on recreation and exercise.

XIV) MAIL

        American mail takes up to two months to arrive.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        YMCA Delegate visited this camp in October 1944.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        No serious complaints were brought to the knowledge of the Delegate of the Protecting Power.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        This is a good American camp.

AMERICAN

Date of visit: Jan. 20th, 1945

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1311, Schillerschule, FREITAL

Man of Confidence: Pte. Jess COLLINS, POW No. 80205

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        The camp is installed in an old school-building. 300 yards away lies a "kriegswirtschaftlich wichtig" factory which has been bombed once already. Open slit-trenches are outside the camp. A tunnel is under construction, and when finished, prisoners will be allowed to use it together with the civilian workers.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        99 American Ps.O.W. They are working on the road and on pipe-laying. The working hours are fixed at 8 hours daily. As a rule there is no Sunday work.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        Two sleeping-rooms with iron double-tier beds and 1 dining room. Lighting and heating are reported to be good.

IV) WASHING FACILITIES

        Good, hot showers once a week.

V) TOILET FACILITIES

        Good, flush type.

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        The German food rations are cooking in a restaurant. Red Cross parcels are stored by the British District Man of Confidence. Also his stock is exhausted.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        No recognised sanitator. Twice a week, sickparade is held by a civilian doctor. 3 patients have been transferred to Schmorkau.

        Dental treatment by a Russian dentist.

VIII) CLOTHING

        Every prisoner has 1 complete outfit. The shoes, however, are in a very bad state. From the German authorities only wooden clogs can be obtained and the stock of the Stalag is exhausted.

IX) LAUNDRY is sent out.

X) MONEY AND PAY

        Correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        Beer is seldom available.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        The camp was once visited by the Chaplain from Hohnstein.

XIII) MAIL

        Mail is stated to take 6 weeks from America to Europe.

XIV) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        Good facilities for outdoor recreation and indoor entertainment.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        Nothing to report.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        Some smaller complaints were discussed with the German Officer in control of the camp, who promised to put things right.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        Apart from the very unsatisfactory shoe position the camp is in good condition.

AMERICAN

Date of visit: January 20th, 1945.

WORKING DETACHMENT No. 1320, BUEHLER, FREITAL

Man of Confidence: Pte. C.R. NEFF, POW No. 82874

I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION

        The Camp is in the gymnastic hall of the same school-building as the detachment No. 1311, described above. Concerning ARP, the same applies as mentioned above.

II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL

        49 American Ps.O.W. working on machines in the Buehler factory. They have to do 9 hours a day. As a rule there is no Sunday work.

III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS

        Part of the hall is furnished as sleeping--, part of it as dining room. No complaints about lighting or heating.

IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES  )

V) TOILET FACILITIES                                     ) satisfactory

VI) FOOD AND COOKING

        The food is cooked by their own cook. No complaints. As in the other town, stock of Red Cross parcels is stored by the British District Man of confidence.

VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH

        Sick parade is held once a week by a German civilian doctor. Serious cases are transferred to the lazaret at Schmorkau. There is no recognised sanitator in the camp.

        For dental treatment prisoners have to go to a Russian dentist, -- General state of health is reported to be good.

VIII) CLOTHING

        The men have one complete outfit each, but very worn-out shoes. For the work, all men will be provided with overalls. For the time being only a small supply has been given out.

IX) LAUNDRY is sent out.

X) MONEY AND PAY are correct.

XI) CANTEEN

        Beer is available.

XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY

        Up to now this camp has been visited once by a Chaplain.

XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE

        Good facilities for recreation and entertainment.

XIV) MAIL

        Mail has been very scarce due to the recent opening of the camp.

XV) WELFARE WORK

        Nothing to report.

XVI) COMPLAINTS

        There were no complaints of any importance in this camp.

XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION

        This is a satisfactory camp.

(Sgd.) FRITZ DASEN.

CONFIDENTIAL

BRITISH/AMERICAN

No. 687

Date of visit: January 17th, 1945

RESERVE LAZARET SCHMORKAU - STALAG IV A

German Doctor: Oberstabsarzt Dr. Haering

Senior British Medical Officer: Capt. E. Stevenson-Wright NZMC POW No. 23898

Medical Officers: Capt. G. Burns, NZMC, POW No. 259723

                           Capt. T. Silvester, RAMC, POW No. 39656

                           Capt. T. Ferguson, RAMC, POW No. 1814

Accompanying Officer from the GHC: Major Schneider

Reference is made to our last report, No. 440, dated May 2nd, 1944.

General description

        No change in the exterior arrangements and the clinical outfit.

        American and British patients, apart from the mental cases in special wards, are now accommodated in a new wooden barrack, consisting of 4 large rooms with 25 single beds in each. Also washing and toilet facilities were improved and are now satisfactory. Bedlinen is changed every fortnight.

Strength of the lazaret:

        a) Patients

        The patients may be classed as follows:

                108 mental cases

                  17 medical cases

                  44 surgical cases

                  14 skin cases

        Due to the repatriation transport leaving on January 22nd, the strength of the lazaret on the day of visit was rather high.

Medical Officers

        Capt. G. Burns and Capt. T. Silvester have been transferred to this lazaret, while Capt. Ferguson passed the Mixed Medical Commission and will leave with the repatriation on Monday next.

Repatriation

        Capt. T. Ferguson, 79 British and 23 American prisoners (98 mental, 1 medical and 3 surgical cases) will be repatriated with the next transport. This number may eventually be increased by some men coming in from working detachments.

Drugs and Medicaments

        The supply from German sources is satisfactory. Medical parcels, however, are exhausted. The necessary steps for a further supply were taken and it was proposed that, in future, lazaret Schmorkau will deal directly with Geneva for food and medical parcels.

Dental treatment

        A French dentist in the lazaret is in charge of the dental treatment, which is stated to be satisfactory.

Red Cross food parcels

        A small stock of food parcels is kept outside the lazaret, Capt. Stevenson has one of the 2 keys for the room.

General impression

        The impression gained of this lazaret is much better than the one on the occasion of our last visit. Medical Officers agree that every possible thing is done to improve the conditions and no complaint of any importance was put forward to the Delegate of the Protecting Power. A request for more coal was granted.

American patients

        A list of American patients in this lazaret is attached to the report.

FRITZ DASEN

List of American patients in lazaret Schmorkau

(EN CLAIR)

DEPARTMENTAL NO. 1

FROM BERNE TO FOREIGN OFFICE

Mr. Norton

No. 373

2nd March, 1945

D. 9.00 p.m. 2nd March, 1945

R. 2.30 a.m. 3rd March, 1945

        My despatch No.6854.

        Report on Elsterhorst visited 17th January containing 60 patients indicates conditions satisfactory.

        Following prisoners serving various sentences and fallen sick passed by Commission at Elsterhorst but excluded from January repatriation as sentences unfinished: Privates William Evans P.O.W. No. 13573 (my despatch No. 7312) Babu Singh P.O.W. No. 3249 (my despatch No. 6544) Cyril Meakin P.O.W. No. 1506 (my despatch No. 8718 or 1943) H. Anderson P.O.W. No. 948.

(EN CLAIR)

DEPARTMENTAL NO.1

FROM BERNE TO FOREIGN OFFICE

Mr. Norton

No.421

6th March, 1945

D. 1.42 p.m. 6th March, 1945

R. 4.15 p.m. 6th March, 1945

        My despatch No.6960.

        Report on Stalag IV A visited 15th to 22nd January containing 4386 in 60 detachments states Private Lea Norman p.o.w. No.278986 was killed in air raid on Dresden 16th January. Delegate protested against living accommodation at 1091 Neukirch containing 20 British, 9 hours daily light work at box factory. Conditions in detachments otherwise generally satisfactory.

FROM: CLIFTON KERR #82093

        M. STAMMLAGER IVA ARB KDO 419

        GERMANY

TO: MR & MRS. C.C. KERR

        GRAND RAPIDS OHIO

        U.S.A.

Date of Communication: Jan. 9.1945

Examination Date: Mar. 23

        I. AMERICAN PRISONER OF WAR IN GERMANY ISSUED BRITISH UNIFORM BY GERMANS WHILE WORKING ON KOMMANDO

                In letter to parents writer states: "Received a new British overcoat yesterday. All my clothes are British except my boots which are my original jump boots. I am one of one hundred Americans in work commando No.419. We have a nice place to live in on the paper factory grounds. White tile bath, wash room etc. also white tile kitchen. The building is almost new for it was built for the French prisoners.\3

        II. AMERICAN PRISONER OF WAR IN GERMANY REPORTS CONFISCATION OF CIGARETTES FROM RED CROSS PARCELS

                Writer further states: "We are all out of cigarettes as the cigarettes have been stolen from our last two red cross pack. (sic). We received twenty two cigs. at Christmas that was the last".