Second Lieutenant John Williams.
CLICK. HERE for the story of the Descent into Germany
Lietenant Williams’ POW mug shot
CLICK for the Journal from the Stalag
Esther adds: “My father started talking to my brothers and I about his experiences in prison camp after watching the t.v. show, Hogan’s Heroes. He especially loved the character, Shultz, and his iconic line “I see nothing. I hear nothing”. He mostly downplayed how horrible it must have been and usually related humorous anecdotes about some of the pranks they pulled on each other and a few of the friendlier guards.
“Oh, and my father did come to Pine Plains in the 1950’s. During my early years we lived in New Jersey and my father brought us up here a few times to visit with an army buddy who lived here. I think his name was Satterfield. My oldest brother remembers Mr. Satterfield taking his sons and my oldest brother to the dump where they got to shoot at the rats.”
Why Is This On Pine Plains Views?
A view or a viewpoint?
One goal of Pine Plains Views was to bridge the gap between those who are from here and those who come here: the Fromers and the Comers.
There is a need for the Comers to bring their histories along with them and share them with the community. And for the Fromers to share their histories so that the values of the community can be withstand the pressures of change.
The goal is not to eradicate differences but to undeerstand and appreciate them.
Extraordinary piece of history from the first person experience. So detailed! This is a great look into history. Thanks for sharing and for posting!