Behind the Wire

Allied Prisoners of War in Hitler’s Germany

Nonfiction, History, Military, Aviation, World War II
Cover of the book Behind the Wire by Philip Kaplan, Pen and Sword
View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart
Author: Philip Kaplan ISBN: 9781783378401
Publisher: Pen and Sword Publication: January 19, 2013
Imprint: Pen and Sword Language: English
Author: Philip Kaplan
ISBN: 9781783378401
Publisher: Pen and Sword
Publication: January 19, 2013
Imprint: Pen and Sword
Language: English

Philip Kaplan presents us here with a riveting account of the Allied experience behind enemy lines, detailing the trials and tribulations experienced by the British and American airmen who were shot down in European skies during World War Two, to be incarcerated 'behind the wire' in enemy camps. With eloquence and a clear enthusiasm for the subject at hand, the author describes how various individuals adjusted to their incarceration. Whilst some set their minds resolutely on escape, and dreamt up plots and plans to achieve this end, others retreated, away from their comrades and into themselves as the grim reality of their predicament pushed them ever deeper into debilitating depression. Others were determined that they would not waste their time; affected by the quick and brutal deaths they had witnessed during their wartime careers, they were unwilling to sit idle. Theatres, recreational areas, and other camp facilities were designed and built – a creative spur that made their time behind the wire, and the quality of life of their fellow comrades, infinitely more bearable. These small acts of enterprising heroism, alongside the harrowing tales of those who crumpled under the weight of their prison reality, combine to create a complete picture of this collective experience. Kaplan's skill lies in informing the reader of the facts of this history with both honesty and reverence.

View on Amazon View on AbeBooks View on Kobo View on B.Depository View on eBay View on Walmart

Philip Kaplan presents us here with a riveting account of the Allied experience behind enemy lines, detailing the trials and tribulations experienced by the British and American airmen who were shot down in European skies during World War Two, to be incarcerated 'behind the wire' in enemy camps. With eloquence and a clear enthusiasm for the subject at hand, the author describes how various individuals adjusted to their incarceration. Whilst some set their minds resolutely on escape, and dreamt up plots and plans to achieve this end, others retreated, away from their comrades and into themselves as the grim reality of their predicament pushed them ever deeper into debilitating depression. Others were determined that they would not waste their time; affected by the quick and brutal deaths they had witnessed during their wartime careers, they were unwilling to sit idle. Theatres, recreational areas, and other camp facilities were designed and built – a creative spur that made their time behind the wire, and the quality of life of their fellow comrades, infinitely more bearable. These small acts of enterprising heroism, alongside the harrowing tales of those who crumpled under the weight of their prison reality, combine to create a complete picture of this collective experience. Kaplan's skill lies in informing the reader of the facts of this history with both honesty and reverence.

More books from Pen and Sword

Cover of the book What's Tha Up To This Time? by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book In Presence of My Foes by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Naval Anti-Aircraft Guns and Gunnery by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Loos - Hill 70: French Flanders by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Operation Pacific by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Constant Vigilance by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Air War Over the Nore by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Royal Navy and the Peruvian-Chilean War 1879 - 1881 by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Sacrifice for Stalin by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Sunderland Over Far-Eastern Seas by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Edinburgh at War 1939–45 by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Festiniog Railway by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book The Decisive Campaigns of the Desert Air Force 1942-1945 by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book In Search of the Real Dad’s Army by Philip Kaplan
Cover of the book Command and Morale by Philip Kaplan
We use our own "cookies" and third party cookies to improve services and to see statistical information. By using this website, you agree to our Privacy Policy