Search JTA's historical archive dating back to 1923

Refugees in British Pioneer Corps Win High Praise

January 6, 1941
See Original Daily Bulletin From This Date
Advertisement

The British radio yesterday brought to its microphone Austrians and Germans who escaped from the Nazis and are now enlisted in the Pioneer Corps of the British Army. The program was recorded at Columbia Broadcasting System’s short-wave listening station.

The British officer of the company paid the men high compliments for their work with the fighting forces in France and in England, declaring: “There are no finer workers in the Pioneer Corps of the British Army today than our alien companies. They are ranked among the happiest and the best disciplined men in the service.

“The reason for this is as interesting as it is true. All these men have come through the hell of concentration camps. They have undergone incredible tortures individually, they have suffered indignities too appalling to mention here.

“In the Pioneer Corps, these fellows have not only regained their freedom, but what is of far greater importance to them, their self respect. The manner in which they carry out their army duties proves their gratitude to this country. That is why they are happy.

“I served with this company in France and I was more than very proud of it. Its reputation out there was second to none and in rejoining it, as I have done recently. I am glad to know that its reputation overseas has been fully maintained since it returned to this country.”

Recommended from JTA

Advertisement