The Former Kriegy Wilbur Sharpe (Prisoner #1573) remarks which were shared during Oflag 64 Living History event

Greetings from Former Kriegy Wilbur Sharpe (Prisoner #1573). Thank you to all those assembled today to commemorate a very significant time in the lives of those of us held at Oflag 64 during WW II.  It is thrilling to learn that you are interested in keeping history alive within your community.  My wife and I will be with you in spirit but at the age of 95, traveling such a distance is not wise. I am grateful to my daughter, son-in law and granddaughter for their participation in the Reenactment events.

 

  

Former Kriegy Wilbur Sharpe (Prisoner #1573) together with his daughter Cynthia. National World War II Memorial in Washington, D.C. USA, June 2017.

Almost 6 years ago, I received a list of 65 questions regarding my incarceration at Oflag 64 from a young man by the name of Mariusz Winiecki.  I was puzzled as to why he would be interested but with the help of my family, I answered the questions which continue to this day. Since then, I have learned that Mariusz sent questions to many living Kriegies/and their families and I believe this must have been the beginning of his exhaustive research and dedication to sharing the Oflag 64 story to not only this community of Szbin but to the world!  I know I speak for all Kriegies living and those who have passed that we are eternally grateful to Mariusz (and his family) for joining our Oflag 64 family as our advocate. We honor him for his efforts in researching and organizing the reenactment of highlights which transpired on these grounds over 70 years ago.

Some memories of Oflag64 experiences are negative but then there are some very positive; especially mine and my friends, John Scully and Earl Hoffman as we had a warm association with the Polish people both in Szubin and during our forced march from the camp on January 21, 1945 destinations beingLuckenwalde and/orHammelburg. We were comfortably housed by the Poles in homes and barns during the frigid nights; sometimes sleeping close to the animals for warmth.

On the 9th day of the march the three of us did not report for roll call and stayed in the hay mow of a barn. The frightened Germans did not extensively search for us as they were fearful of the advancing Russians.  Friendly Polish residents discovered our hiding place and provided us with warm milk and food and kept us safe as we waited for the advancing General Zukov’s troops to arrive. I would not be alive today without their protection and kindness.

Enjoy your day and may God bless each of you!