227971 Ken "Chips" Crabtree I am trying to see if there are any members still living or family of members who were imprisoned in Stalag 383 (late Oflag IIIC) Hohenfels Baveria Germany, 1942-1945.
My Uncle "Chips" Ken Crabtree was the Rover Crew QM in that camp and I am researching the types and activities that they performed. I have some names of crew members, plus the scarf, badges, epaulertes, photos, a couple of the Scout Bulletins numbers 42 and 43, and a letter from R. Philip Smith.
He mentions a booklet called "Glowing Embers" accepted by Pearsons for publication in 1945. I would like to get a copy of this booklet or an original for my collection. I would also like to hear from anyone who can give me any further information. I have the book "Barbed Wire Memories of Stalag 383" written by M.N.McKibbin, illustrated by A. Dallimore. This gives an excellent account of some aspects but only touches on the Scout Rover Crew. I have been able to obtain some names of men who were involved with Anzac Day activities and sports 1943/44.
I have been to a family wedding on 17 August 2002 and I chatted with my aunt about her husband who was also held in Stalag 383 at this time, his name was Bill Cull, he died about 10 years ago but his wife Joan is still alive and has many stories of his life in the camp.
I would be very interested to hear of where any of the books you mention are available from.
I have now obtained another couple of books including Glowing Embers, which is about the Rover Crew in Camp and Some Times Free, by Fred Stuckey who was always trying to get out. Most books are very hard to get hold of and many were printed in limited editions. I would be happy to share any information that I have directly with others including copies of the many photos that I have. A web site dedicated to Stalag 383 is in the process of being developed.
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