| Place | Europe: Italy |
|---|---|
| Accession Number | MSS1537 |
| Collection type | Manuscript |
| Measurement | 2 items |
| Object type | Manuscript |
| Maker |
Mills, John Brent |
| Date made | 1993 |
| Access | Open |
| Related File This file can be copied or viewed via the Memorial’s Reading Room. | AWM371 93/0683 |
| Conflict |
Second World War, 1939-1945 |
| Copying Provisions | Copyright restrictions apply. Only personal, non-commercial, research and study use permitted. Permission of copyright holder required for any commercial use and/or reproduction. |
Mills, John Brent (Gunner, b: 1921)
Description
Manuscript `Over the hills and far away' and introductory essay `September, 1943 : fifty years on' written by Gunner John Mills of the 2nd South African Anti-Aircraft Regiment. Describe the author's escape from prisoner-of-war camp PG54 (Fara Sabina) in Italy in September 1943, when Italy surrendered to the Allies. Also describe being aided and sheltered by Italian peasants in the countryside, recapture by (and escape from) Italian soldiers still loyal to facist command, and evasion from German troops. Warmly describes generosity and selflessness of peasants. Mentions return to Allied lines after the fall of Rome.