Major Patrick R. Reid memoir based on his own captivity and escape from Colditz combines with the events that unfolded until American liberation of the Colditz Castle in 1945.
As a high security German Prisoner Of War camp, Oflag IV-C for the highest ranking allied officers and those deemed the greatest security risk; it was regarded by the Germans as escape proof.
Reid describes in remarkable detail, the extraordinary efforts POWs undertook to find methods of escape some daring and ingenious. Over staggering 300 escape attempts were made from those some escaped back home.
He reveals amazing array of items hidden cleverly devised in contraband sent from London to the prisoners to assist in escape.
Instead of being a British only account of escape, Reid gives us insight into the efforts of the other nationalities held prisoner and the tensions among them.
Definitively compelling reading, adventurous, thrilling and full of surprises, heroism and courage.
Absolute must read on stories about “World War II”.