CHRISTMAS 1942
in the PoW camp: P.G. 68, Vetralla, Italy
"About a week before Christmas, more prisoners came in. They had been prisoner on Sicily for a short time, and I recognised one or two of my own regiment. At this time, our thoughts were centred on Christmas and we wondered what sort of a time we would have.
After a lot of discussion, it was decided to issue every man with a Red Cross Canadian parcel and 50 cigarettes on Christmas Eve. This sounded good: we had never received a parcel all to ourselves and we really looked forward to Christmas.
As Christmas drew near, we all made preparations and each man had his own ideas of making a trifle or cake. On Wed 23-12-42, we received 50 English cigarettes. We had a surprise later during the day with a visit from the Pope’s Ambassador. He wished us the season’s greetings and said he hoped we would soon return home. He gave us each a small book and some men received sets of Vatican stamps and medals. He gave 4 new accordions to the camp also.
On Christmas Eve, we each received a Canadian parcel, as we had decided. The great moment had arrived! The best way I can describe my Christmas is to make a menu card here of Christmas Day. We received nothing extra from the Italians - excepting two oranges each which we paid for!
Fascinating account of a war time Christmas Hazel. Sure some war time association would be fascinated with your dads diaries, they are unique. Beautiful Robin taken at a great angle!
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