Stalag X-C

Prisoner of war camp

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Detailed History

Opened as Mudra Kaserne in 1936, and used as infantry barracks until the start of the Second World War in 1939. Then used to house captured Polish Officers at the start of the war.



Formally opened as Oflag X-B prisoner of War camp in May 1940 and used to hold officers captured during the Battle of France, Stalag X-C for enlisted men opened shortly after to the north, and was a quarter of the size of the officer's camp.



Prisoners in Oflag X-B were largely left to their own devices and spent their time working, mending clothes, studying or putting on plays. After an attempted escape by 13 officers in June 1941, a large trench was built around the camp to prevent further attempts.



Stalag X-C was initially only housed French soldiers, but over the course of the war saw inmates of a number of nationalities. While the camp itself only housed around 1,000 persons the camp was supported by a network of work camps containing over 45,000 people.



The camps were evacuated on 5 April 1945, and inmates were marched 40 miles north to Oflag 83 at Wietzendorf. Oflag X-B and Stalag X-C themselves were liberated by the British Army 5 days later on 9 April 1945.

People

  • Military/Civilian/Mascot: Military
  • Nationality: American
  • Unit: 381st Bomb Group 534th Bomb Squadron
  • Service Numbers: 12169572
  • Role/Job: waist gunner; Top Turret Gunner, Waist Gunner

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Update to Place Type.

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ContributorEmily
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