When the Moon Rises
Davis was captured while fighting with the Honourable Artillery Company in the hills around Medjez-el-Bab in Tunisia. Wounded in the head he was treated in a German hospital for eight days before being handed over to the
- Author
- Tony Davis
- Publisher
- Pen & Sword Books
- Price
- £16.99
- ISBN
- 184832457X
- Published
- 2016
When the Moon Rises by Tony Davis
Tony Davis served with the Honourable Artillery Company in the hills around Medjez-el-Bab, Tunisia, where he was wounded in the head and captured. After eight days in a German hospital he was handed to the Italians and sent to Camp PG66 near Capua. While plotting escape he was moved by train to Chieti; he slipped from the train with several others, only to be recaptured and returned to Capua before being transferred to Chieti and finally to Camp 49, Fontanellato.
On 9 September 1943 a bugle sounded and the prisoners assembled on the square with their small packs. Italy had declared an armistice and Senior British Officer Lt Col De Burgh ordered everyone to leave immediately. Marching out in companies they found a temporary harbour before scouts confirmed that German troops were taking control of the camps. The POWs were instructed to split into small groups and make for Switzerland or the advancing Allied lines in the south.
Davis, travelling south with two friends, relied on Italian civilians who, despite great risk, supplied food, shelter and guidance. Their courage and his endurance carried him to freedom.
ISBN 184832457X. Pen & Sword Books. £16.99