No.568
CONFIDENTIAL
WORKING DETACHMENTS DEPENDING ON STALAG IX C.
Date of visit: September 6th, 1944.
Working Detachment No. 1401, Bleickerode
British Man of Confidence: Sgt. Major N. Hamilton, POW No. 499.
This detachment, when last visited on January 15th, 1944 was 180 men strong whereas now there are 153 British Prisoners of War. By order of the Stalag Commander, 47 men were removed to other detachments in the neighbourhood some time ago.
Since our last visit the working conditions (salt-mine) have changed in so far as the prisoners are required to work 8¾ hours daily with two Sundays a month free. There were no complaints regarding work or working conditions.
In the meantime there has been no change in the interior arrangements of the camp, which are still adequate in every respect. There are no bugs now.
Food and clothing, medical attention and dental treatment are satisfactory. At the moment there is a stock of Red Cross parcels for six weeks.
Mail, particularly private parcels, is exceedingly slow, but it is pointed out that the delay is not at the Stalag.
The only complaint put to the Delegate of the Protecting Power concerns the arrangements for air-raid precautions, the prisoners pointing out that there are no protective trenches within the compound or shelters they may use at the factory. The matter was discussed with the accompanying officer of the German High Command as well as the man in charge of the ARP at the mine, the latter stating that the prisoners prefer to remain out of doors when an alarm is sounded at the factory although they may use the shelters provided for the German and other civilian workers. Regarding the camp, the Delegate of the Protecting Power demanded that the building of shelters be started at once now, and he was given a definite assurance to this effect (to be checked next time).
This is still a good commando.
Working Detachment No. 1416, Sollstedt
Date of interview: September 6th, 1944
Man of Confidence: Sgt. L.W. Guy, POW No.1229
No visit was paid to this detachment but the Man of Confidence had an interview with the Delegate of the Protecting Power at detachment No. 1401, Bleicherode, when reporting that there are now 65 British Prisoners of War engaged on work in the Kali-Werke at Sollstedt (all surface work). In accordance with a new agreement reached by the Prisoners of War with the management of the mine, the men work now 9 hours daily with every Sunday free. There were no complaints at all regarding either, work or working conditions on the contrary, the situation for the men of this detachment is rather better than in any others visited.
There were no complaints whatsoever and the Man of Confidence confirmed that this detachment is the best accommodated in the whole Stalag area.
This detachment was last visited on July 27th, 1943.
Working Detachment No. 1015, Bischofferode (Salt-mine)
Date of interview: September 6th, 1944
Man of Confidence: Pte. J. Hughes, POW No. 17623
This labour detachment was not visited this time, but the Man of Confidence had an interview with the Delegate of the Protecting Power at working detachment No. 1401, Bleicherode.
To-day's strength of the camp is reported to be 127 Prisoners of War. The working conditions are the same as before and satisfactory. 60 men work on top, as a rule from 6 a.m. to 3 p.m. Every second Sunday is free. The remainder are engaged on work down below. They work the same hours, but are free on three Sundays out of four.
No change has occurred in the lay-out of the camp since our last visit on January 15th, 1944. Food, medical attention, clothing and laundry are stated to be satisfactory.
Complaints: 1) The same as on occasion of our last visit regarding the latrines in the factory (being frequently out of order and not hygienic). Upon the request of the Delegate of the Protecting Power the Stalag officer gave again the assurance that the matter will be at once attended to. 2) A new Feldwebel who has recently taken charge of this detachment is said to be far too strict with the Prisoners of War and trying to make trouble. The Delegate therefore requested the Stalag officer to interview and instruct the man in the required sense. This was promised. 3) Prisoners of War request that one of their men, a barber be again allowed a day off for hair cutting once a week (as previously but stopped a short time ago.) This was also promised.
Otherwise this still seems to be a good commando.
Working Detachment No. 737, Menterode
Date of visit: September 7th, 1944
138 British Prisoners of War, last visited on July 30th, 1943. The Man of Confidence, when being interviewed at Zweiglager Muehlhausen by the Delegate of the Protecting Power, expressed the wish that his camp be paid a visit. His wish was gladly fulfilled.
Prisoners are employed in a salt-mine near the camp. There are two shifts of 8¾ hours each for the miners (working below) and 9 to 10 hours each for the top workers. The majority of the men are employed on surface work. Every second Sunday is free.
The barracks provide good accommodation and there is no overcrowding. The interior arrangements are satisfactory. Unfortunately some of the sleeping rooms are slightly infested with bugs but arrangements for gassing are being made.
There is no complaint regarding food but facilities for private cooking are most primitive. The Delegate of the Protecting Power had a long discussion with the mine director on this matter, the outcome being that entirely new stoves are to be built in an annexe to one of the barracks. If the plans as discussed are followed, excellent facilities for cooking will be provided (to be checked). At the same time a second boiler will be installed if it can be found.
Clothing is in order as far as the British outfits are concerned. As to working clothes and boots supplied by the mine the position is satisfactory from the point of view of overalls but not for boots. There are still 6 men who have not been given working boots, although employed in the mine. However, the Delegate of the Protecting Power was satisfied that everything is being done to remedy this shortcoming as quickly as possible.
Regarding medical attention as such by a civilian doctor at the next village, no complaint was put forward, but it was pointed out that it is extremely difficult to have the doctor calling at the camp, although he is said to pass every day. Furthermore, means of transportation of sick Prisoners of War to the next village to see the doctor are most primitive, although in serious cases a car of the German Red Cross calls. Upon discussing these matters with the accompanying officers, it was decided that the matter is best dealt with by the way of the Stalag commander, who will be informed of the position by Capt. Buenger.
On the day of visit there were 2 prisoners ill in bed, but neither serious cases. Fortunately an efficient sanitator looks after the small revier; his stock of medicaments, bandages etc. is none too large at the moment.
The Germans also promised to extend facilities for sports, prisoners complaining that the time allowed for games (each Sunday) is too short. From the YMCA a football-bladder would be gladly received and the Protecting Power will be transmitting this request. Mail is described as "slow".
In spite of the shortcomings mentioned above, this is a fairly good camp.
Working Detachment No. 1039, Craja (Salt-mine)
Date of visit: September 7th, 1944
Man of Confidence: Pte. J. Fanning, POW No. 1206
90 Prisoners of War working in a salt-mine. Half of the men are working underneath in three shifts of eight hours each. The others to 10 hours a day on top. Every second Sunday is free for all of them.
There has been no change in the interior arrangements since our last visit on January 15th, 1944. The latrines are still primitive. On request of the Delegate of the Protecting Power a definite promise was given, that new latrines will be built (will be checked on our next visit).
The food is still cooked by three women from the village but the Stalag officer told the Delegate of the Protecting Power that arrangements would now be made whereby a British Prisoner of War fit for "light work" be sent here to do the cooking. This, naturally, will please the prisoners greatly.
Although some protective working clothes have been given out by the mine director, none of the top workers have received any. The Germans promised again to do their best for the prisoners.
It is reported that Pte. George Drewery, Prisoner of War No. 1554 (see our last report) died about three weeks ago at R/L Obermassfeld from the injuries received in 1943 down below.
In this connexion the Delegate of the Protecting Power again discussed the question of "dangerous work" in this mine as already described in our last report (No. 334, page 5, last para.) The employer clearly admitted that the work is definitely dangerous, whereupon he was informed by the Delegate that under these circumstances the Protecting Power must demand the removal of British prisoners from this commando. The matter will therefore be put to the German High Command.
Although many old grievances have been settled since a new company took over recently, Prisoners of War have never felt happy at this camp and will be delighted to move somewhere else.
Working Detachment No. 106, Dorndorf (potash-mine)
Date of visit: September 8th, 1944
Man of Confidence: Pte. G. Heyes, POW No. 3067
58 British Prisoners of War, including 1 recognised sanitator. Since our last visit on July 19th, 1944, there have been no changes in working conditions and these are stated to be satisfactory (the men work a regular 56 hours week with Sunday-work once or twice a month as a rule). There is no mining work and all prisoners are employed on transport-work.
There were no complaints at all. The Man of Confidence, however, reported that the potato ration has been increased from 300 to 500 grammes per day since our last visit. On the other hand, barley is issued no longer.
Some clothing has also arrived recently and the position is better now except for small size boots.
Still a good detachment.
The British Men of Confidence of the following working detachments were interviewed by the Delegate of the Protective Power at the above commando and they reported as follows on conditions in their detachments:
Working detachment No. 199, Springen (salt-mine)
Working detachment No. 119, Merkers (salt-mine)
Working detachment No. 137, Unterbriezbach (salt-mine)
Working detachment No. 152, Unterbriezbach (salt-mine)
(only the present working hours and conditions of work, any changes which have occurred since our last visit and complaints put forward at the interview will be reported, so that if no mention is made of other points it may be assumed that all is well in order).
Working Detachment No. 199, Springen
Date of interview: September 8th, 1944
Man of Confidence: Sgt. F. Johnston, POW No. 3123.
85 British Prisoners of War engaged on work in a salt-mine 8¾ hours daily. Every second Sunday is free. No complaint regarding working conditions.
Since our last visit on April 24th, 1944, bathing facilities have improved and every man is now enjoying a daily hot shower. The coal ration for heating purposes has also been increased. As to working clothes the Man of Confidence states that 30 men are now provided with these against 10 on the occasion of our last visit. The Delegate of the Protecting Power requested the accompanying officer of the Stalag to use his influence with the firm for further supplies of working clothes. This was promised.
There are still two prisoners with certificates for "light work" in this detachment, namely L/Cpl. Tobiason, POW No. 31274 and Pte. Knight, POW No. 39385. Note was taken of their case and they will be transferred to a suitable camp.
The accompanying Stalag officer told the Delegate of the Protecting Power that this detachment is to remain at Springen for about another 3 weeks only and will then be transferred to a new camp, good facilities in every respect will be available.
All in all, conditions in the present camp at Springen can still be considered as satisfactory.
Working Detachment No. 119, Merkers
Date of interview: September 8th, 1944
Man of Confidence: Pte. G. Waterhouse, POW No. 20420.
142 British Prisoners of War, as working detachment divided into 3 shifts as follows:
morning shift (down below) of 8 hours daily
afternoon shift (down below) of 8¾ hours daily
top shift working 62 hours a week.
As a rule every second Sunday is free. No complaints regarding working conditions.
The Man of Confidence reports that the barracks are infested with bugs and that some of the roofs are leaking. When discussing the matter with the Germans it was stated that all barracks had been disinfected and gassed already several times but that the whole procedure is to be repeated again and again until there is no more cause for complaints. Roofs will also be attended to.
Floors of the barracks are stone-covered now and the Ps.o.W. complain of dampness. The Germans explain that the former wooden floors had to be replaced by stone ones as too many escaped occurred by way of removing the wooden planks. However, on request of the Delegate of the Protecting Power it was promised that either wooden grates or more fuel for better heating will be supplied for the cold season.
Regarding working overalls the situation is satisfactory but prisoners state that no working boots have been supplied so far. The Germans on their part point out that any number of such boots are at the disposal of the prisoners, who refuse to wear them as these are worn shoes.
The lack of proper facilities for sports and the absence of an adequate recreation-room were also reported. The accompanying Stalag officer therefore ordered the Kommandoführer to look out for a sports field permanently at the disposal of the prisoners in future. (If unable to play football, the men have been able to go swimming up to now). Regarding the recreation-room it was promised to make provision for it in the new barrack now under construction.
On the occasion of our next visit to this region this detachment will be paid a visit. Although it is in no way a bad commando, it requires frequent control.
Otherwise no change since our last visit on July 19th, 1944.
Working Detachment No. 137, Unterbreizbach
Date of interview: September 8th, 1944
Man of Confidence: Sgt R. Longwill, POW No. 1895.
168 British Prisoners of War, last visited on July 19th, 1944. Working hours today are as follows:
8 hours a day for miners
10 hours a day for top-workers
As a rule every second Sunday is free.
The Man of Confidence reports that the material conditions in this detachment have improved a great deal since our last visit on July 19th, 1944, and that at present there were no complaints of importance. Regarding food, for instance, the position is much better too. Complaints about cold food no longer exist as there are now only two shifts as against 4 or 5 at one time. Also the sugar ration is now issued in kind (please see our last report).
As regards to working boots the Man of Confidence states that the mine has never given out any and the Delegate of the Protecting Power insisted that something be done now in this matter. Both, the accompanying officer of the German High Command as well as the representative of the Stalag commander instructed the Kommandoführer how to deal with the mine authorities in order to obtain some results in this matter. The Stalag authorities are also taking the matter in hand. It is difficult to understand why in some mine boots are supplied and in others not. (This matter will be checked on the occasion of our next visit).
Recently the long asked for tailor has arrived at this detachment, but he has not yet been supplied with a sewing-machine. The Kommandoführer, however, promised to do his very best in finding one.
The Man of Confidence repeats that all round the position has improved, last not least thanks to the new Kommandoführer who is stated to be very helpful and doing a great deal for the men.
Working Detachment No. 152, Unterbreizbach
Date of interview: September 8th, 1944
Man of Confidence: Pte. J. Ross, POW No. 451.
75 British Prisoners of War. The same applies for the prisoners of this detachment as is reported above (detachment No. 137), as working and living conditions are alike for both commandos.
But whereas adequate air-raid shelters have been provided for the prisoners of the detachment next door, still no arrangements have been made for this commando. Upon the demand of the Delegate of the Protecting Power the accompanying German officers again left clear orders with the Kommandoführer for the immediate construction of proper shelters, at the same time requesting the Stalag commander to take the matter in hand as well. (This matter will be checked on the occasion of our next visit).
The above two commandos will be visited again at the earliest opportunity. It is hoped that in the meantime the generally improved situation can be maintained.
S-Kommando Gleichamberg (Working Detachment No. 1278)
Date of visit: September 8th, 1944. (First visit)
Man of Confidence: Cpl. A. Reid, POW No. 361.
I) GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The compound is situated almost on top of the beautifully wooded Gleichamberg (about 1800 feet above sea level) and occupies a very prominent position with exceptionally lovely views on the hills and villages of Thuringia and northern Bavaria.
II) CAPACITY AND PRESENT PERSONNEL
The strength of the camp at the moment is 37 British Prisoners of War, including one recognized sanitator.
This detachment has been formed for prisoners who have six or more attempts at escape to their credit and is called an "S-Camp" (Straflager). The men are working in a stone-quarry next to the camp. Those on "strafe" have to do 10 hours a day, the others, who often remain here after having finished their sentences, work 9 hours daily. Sundays are always free. All in all, the working conditions are good.
III) INTERIOR ARRANGEMENTS
There is a stone built house containing 1 dormitory, 1 day-room, 1 kitchen and a washroom. The dormitory is of the usual type with double-tier beds. Both rooms are adequately furnished and spacious enough. Lighting and heating are satisfactory. Each man has 2 German blankets but most prisoners possess additional private ones.
It is stated that the roofs are leaking very frequently but when discussing the matter with the Germans it was confirmed was everything will be done to have proper repairs carried out.
IV) WASHING AND BATHING FACILITIES
As all water has to be brought up by way of a rather primitive air-cable railway, it is very difficult to arrange for proper baths. On request of the Delegate of the Protecting Power the Germans promised to supply a few more washing-bowls, as the present number is insufficient. Though somewhat primitive, the washing facilities cannot be considered as inadequate.
V) TOILET FACILITIES
The 3 latrines are of the pit-type and give no cause for complaint.
VI) FOOD AND COOKING
The food rations supplied by the Germans are correct. All men receive heavy worker's rations. The prisoners have their own cook and were it not for the fact that the cooking stove at his disposal is rather too small, there would be no complaint at all. However, the accompanying officer from the Stalag ordered the Kommandoführer to arrange for a bigger stove.
There is a stock of Red Cross parcels for four weeks.
VII) MEDICAL ATTENTION AND STATE OF HEALTH
The recognized sanitator has a small but well-assorted medical outfit and attends to the light cases. Sick men are carried down to the village where the civilian doctor from Trappstadt is taking care of them. No serious accident has happened up to now, but if such were the case, the doctor would come up to attend to the patient.
Dental treatment is good, every week 2 to 3 men are allowed to go to Obermassfeld.
The general state of health is described as good by the sanitator. The latter is treated as protected personnel and enjoys the privileges he is entitled to.
VIII) CLOTHING
Every prisoner has one, some two uniforms. The clothing situation may be considered as satisfactory, although there is only a very small stock of clothing in camp. No working clothes are provided (for quarry work no protective clothing, apart from sacks or similar primitive means of protection, are issued in German to-day).
IX) LAUNDRY
Laundry is sent out and in order.
X) MONEY AND PAY
Money and pay are correct.
XI) CANTEEN
There is no canteen.
XII) RELIGIOUS ACTIVITY
Due to the well-known order of the German High Command, forbidding chaplains to stay overnight outside their camp. This camp was never visited by a padre.
XIII) RECREATION AND EXERCISE
So far the prisoners have had little chance to play sports at all, but on request from the delegate of the Protecting Power the accompanying German officers gave definite instructions to the Kommandoführer, to take the men out every Sunday to play handball or some other game not requiring extensive grounds (there being only a small even space adjoining the camp). Permission for a regular Sunday walk for the prisoners was also given.
Regarding indoor recreation there were no wishes, some books and musical instruments having arrived from Stalag IX C.
XIV) MAIL
Mail is reported to be very slow.
XV) WELFARE WORK
Since the opening of this camp in June 1943 it has never been visited by any welfare organization.
XVI) COMPLAINTS
Apart from the minor complaints mentioned above, and which could all be settled satisfactorily on the spot, no other complaints were reported.
XVII) GENERAL IMPRESSION
In general the camp makes a good impression and only the rather heavy work suggests that this is a "Straflager". But the men up here are in the best of spirits.
(sig.) WERNER BUCHNUELLER.
On this tour the Delegate of the Protecting Power was accompanied by Hptm. Schäfer of the German High Command and Hptm. Bruenger, Lageroffizier and representative of the commander of Stalag IX C.
