Humanity in War
First-person accounts that sparkle with humanity despite the darkness of war.
“the local inhabitants were of great assistance”
6 June 1944. LE MESNIL, France. “Heavy enemy mortar fire and sniping was brought to bear on our positions from the woods surrounding VARAVILLE. During this time the local inhabitants were of great assistance, the women dressing wounds and the men offering assistance in any way. One Frenchman in particular distinguished himself. Upon being given […]
“Safe conduct”
13 AUGUST 1944. LE MESNIL, France. “Prisoners simply poured into our cage and looked like a queue going up to the ticket box at a theatre, with the IO acting as doorman. Each and every prisoner had an Allied leaflet entitled “Safe conduct” assuring them of good treatment if taken prisoner. The leaflets were handed […]
“It is highly probable that Roly’s books will never balance because…”
15 July 1944. HAMEAU DE CUSSY, France. “Paymaster “Roly” Higgins did his stuff again today and paid out a few more Francs. It is highly probable that “Roly’s” books will never balance, because as he was paying, Jerry shelled the area, and very few entries were made in the books. “Roly” says that in the […]