More Italian Prisoners Arrive in Atterbury 

Italian prisoners from Libya and Tunisia awaiting processing in North Africa.  Most of the Italian PWs at Camp Atterbury were from these battles.

Camp Crier - September 10, 1943

Carrying their few belongings, these soldiers are the newest additions to the Internment Camp. The picture shows a portion of the Italian prisoners of war as they first marched in Atterbury recently, after coming here by special train. (US Signal photo)

Italian Prisoners Happy, Sad on Hearing Homeland Fate

Col. Welton M. Modisette, post commander, talked with different groups at work and at exercises, and to skilled artisans working on frescoes on the Catholic Shrine they are building. The reaction was the same everywhere. Tears came into some eyes - the tears of defeated soldiers loyal to their country, tears of happiness for the safety of their loved ones at home. Pictures of wives and children were shown, expressing their paramount feeling for their welfare.

Their thoughts also concerned the future of their country and the fear of the Germans there, and what Germany might do to Italy. They apparently dislike and distrust Germany and Japan and approved when told we would help drive the Germans from their soil.

All express a friendly attitude toward the United States and on hostility whatever is displayed as a result of our victory. Many have blood relatives in this country and some had the fear when fighting us that they might kill their own people who were Americans.

They are still soldiers of Italy. They realize that the cessation of hostilities will save lives of the people, especially from bombing. They do not want more war and more suffering for their country. They said they are proud they did their duty as soldiers, but they have the soldier's sadness of defeat. They worry about tomorrow for the homeland and their families they left behind.