17//4/1944
To Block Commander, Block …3…
The following order is to be read out by all Block Commanders on the
1700 hours roll call on today’s date.
_______________________________
ORDER FROM THE SENIOR BRITISH OFFICER
As Senior Officer, I am responsible, assisted by Senior
American Officers and Block Leaders, for the official representation of
all prisoners of war in this compound.
I have informed the German authorities that I
consider my duty is to look after the interests of prisoners and to
assist the German authorities only when such assistance is of definite
benefit to the prisoners themselves.
In consequence of my refusal to issue orders
to prevent the alleged act of sabotage of burning the fence adjoining
the sports ground, the German authorities have notified me of their
intention to use fire-arms when necessary, to enforce their orders.
Whilst this fact constitutes no change in
German policy, I feel it my duty to bring it to the notice of all
concerned.
I also wish to bring to the notice of all
officers the desirability of maintaining a standard of discipline
compatible to their Officer status. The practice of carrying on
unnecessary conservations by individuals or by groups with German guards
or interpreters is to cease forthwith.
|
N. W. D Marwood-Elton
Group Captain
Senior British Officer |
H. O. Wangeman
Lt. Colonel
Senior American Officer |
|
