Karl Baumann interviewed by David W. Benavitch

Creator:

Baumann, Karl, 1924-2009 and Benavitch, David W.

Scope and content:

Records the recollections of Karl Baumann, a German prisoner of war during World War II in the United States at Camp 8, Lyndhurst/Sherando Lake, Virginia from April through Nov. 1945. Recalls his life as a merchant mariner in his teens; experiences in the German Navy and submarine duty during the War (incl. wounding at the invasion of Normandy, June 1944, evacuation to a hospital at Brest, capture and shipment to a POW camp in England and later to the United States). Describes experiences in this country as a POW, primarily at Camp 8, Lyndhurst, Virginia: layout of Camp/barracks; various routines (roll call, cleaning, food/meals); work assignments and projects such as cutting pulpwood, working for local farmers; clothing; and the use of exchange coupons. Describes experiences with near-food shortages (strike) and an incident resulting in cell punishment. Talks about relations with fellow prisoners and American civilians (incl. a local farmer, Galen Heatwole, who later sponsored his return back to the United States); and military guards. Records events leading up to and return home to Germany in Jan. 1946. Philosophises about human rights during wartime and religious beliefs. In general, recalls conditions in Germany leading up to the War, his life as a German soldier and POW in the U.S., and reasons for returning.

Names:

Baumann, Karl, 1924-2009
Benavitch, David W.

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