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219680Cpl. John Underhill
British Army Worcestershire Regiment
from:Hickmans Avenue, Old Hill, Staffs
My father was John Underhill, he was a POW in Stalag IVB. He and a few other sick prisoners escaped while on a march to cross the Elbe in the final days of the war. They hid in the woods for days then a German farmer took them in. We just found a book it belonged to dad who died 9 years ago; on the front is Stalag and in Dad's writing IV B inside on Wednesday April 18th is written "5th day. Landed on our feet, right in, feet under the table. Oh Boy a real meal, knife fork and spoon." There was also a name and an address and I contacted the family who still live there. The young farmer was only 22 years old yet he risked everything to give enemy soldiers a bed and meals for a few days. The men with my father were Arthur ,Slim and Bob, can anyone help? We are eager to know more. They joined up with the 11th Arm. Div Inns of Court Regiment and returned home to England.
Additional Information:
My grandfather, Robert F Hanson, was captured on June 12 1944 a week after he landed in Normandy. He told stories about escaping Stalag IV B with others and hiding in a farmhouse where a young farmer helped them. I have a picture of the family but no address. I wonder if he is the " Bob" in your fathers journal!!Molly Back
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