A 'Great Escape' Ludwaffe Question
 

I noticed the camp commander had the Blue max and Ludwaffe emblem. Was that branch responsible for German pow camps? I think I found my answer! The True Story Of The Great Escape!! http://www.b24.net/pow/greatescape.htmand http://www.historyonthenet.com/WW2/german_pow_camps.htm

Yes, since initially most POWs originating outside the continent of Europe were opposing airmen, (most captured French and Belgians were outprossesed and sent home. Others were sent to labor camps), Herman Goering insisted that this be a Luftwaffe responsibility. Goering still held some illusions of Chivalry and "Knights of the Air" imagery, so airmen tended to be treated better than most captives of the germans.

This system changed drastically when the allies invaded Europe and most prisoners were suddenly army, versus airforce. Then camps were run by any body that was available, including the SS, Police, etc.

Thanks, Eric, great read. I thought of my Dad the whole time. :cheers:

All the best,

Gunny John

John we are all lucky. We can now share great historys that would have gotten forgotten long ago! When I practiced law twenty years ago, our law library took up one whole room with at least several hundred expensive books. Updates took weeks and were costly. Now with one key I can trace any case or any defendant or subject matter! They now they sell false facades of law books to put on a office walls! Both my grandkids each have their own computer.....WOW!