How Many Germans Successfully Escaped from British POW Camps During WWII?
During World War II, the realm of escape was a bold and daring challenge for prisoners of war (POWs) on both sides. Contrary to popular belief, only one German pilot managed to escape from a British POW camp and return to Germany. His name was Franz von Werra, a fighter pilot who, in 1941, became the only prisoner to accomplish such a feat.
The Escape of Oberleutnant Franz von Werra
Delving into the remarkable tale of Franz von Werra, captured in September 1940, he spent over a year under British custody. Despite numerous escape attempts, von Werra's resolve never wavered, and his daring finally paid off when he was moved by train to a POW camp in Canada in January 1941.
While traveling across Canada, von Werra managed to escape from the train and make his way across the frozen St Lawrence River into a neutral America. This was not the end of his journey. With the assistance of the German consul, von Werra navigated through Mexico to Brazil. From there, he boarded a ship to Spain and eventually returned to Germany in March 1941, greeted with a hero's welcome and awarded the Knight's Cross.
A Cinematic Tribulation
The story of Franz von Werra inspired several narratives. One of the notable films is titled The One That Got Away, which was released in the mid-1950s. However, it portrayed von Werra quite differently, giving him a more cavalier and playboy character. Despite the romanticization, real-life von Werra maintained his seriousness and steadfast commitment to his escape efforts.
Other Attempts and Incidents
While von Werra's escape stands alone as the only successful return to Germany, there were other instances of Germans attempting to escape British custody. Some unsuccessful escapes, such as that of Walter Kurt Reich, who allegedly jumped into the St Lawrence River from a Polish troopship in July 1941, remain unverified and without a clear resolution.
Lessons from the Past
Reflecting on the life of Franz von Werra provides valuable insights into the challenges of escape and the strategic importance of maintaining morale and resourcefulness. His daring maneuvers and determination to return to Germany, even at the cost of his life, highlights the risks and rewards of such endeavors.
Today, the story of Franz von Werra serves as a testament to the human spirit and the ingenuity required to overcome seemingly insurmountable obstacles. While the term 'successful' carries its weight, it is a story that resonates with bravery and resilience in the face of adversity.