MONTEMONTE SAN SAN MARTINO MARTINO TRUSTTRUST June 2014 June 2014 Looking ahead Lookinghe 70th anniversary ahead of the Italian Armistice and subse- quent breakout of Allied PoWs from prison camps all he 70th anniversary of the Italian Armistice and subsequent over Italy, could, I feel, hardly have gone better as far as breakout of Allied PoWs from prison camps all over Italy, the Monte San Martino Trust is concerned. could, I feel, hardly have gone better as far as the Monte San TAs reported on pages 2 and 3, there were moving encounters at Martino Trust is concerned. TServigliano and a wonderful walk in the Marche with our friends As reported on pages 2 and 3, there were moving encounters at from the Escape Lines Memorial Society; some highly enjoyable Servigliano and a wonderful walk in the Marche with our friends and extremely emotional celebrations in Fontanellato; an honorary from the Escape Lines Memorial Society; some highly enjoyable and MBE for our Italian representative Antonio Millozzi; and a best extremelyever annual emotional lunch. celebrations All this was in capped Fontanellato; by the stunningan honorary success MBE of for ourour ItalianAppeal representative with £775,000 Antonio raised or Millozzi; pledged alreadyand a best (see ever page annual 9). lunch. All this was capped by the stunning success of our Appeal with Keith Killby, Trust founder, with his £775,000I am sureraised that or ourpledged forefathers, already who(see pagewere 9).involved in that little slice autobiography published last year. of history, and all those brave Italians who helped them, would have Copies may be obtained from MSMT I ambeen sure delighted that our toforefathers, see that we who are keepingwere involved their brave in that deeds little alive. slice As of history,chairman and of all the those Trust, brave I want Italians to say whoa heartfelt helped thank them,-you would to everyone, have been delighted to see that we are keeping their brave deeds alive. As both organisers and participants, who helped to make this anniversary CongratulationsCongratulations toto VanniVanni Treves, Treves , chairman of the Trust, I want to say a heartfelt thank-you to everyone, year so memorable. ourour AppealAppeal chairman,chairman, on onbeing being both organisers and participants, who helped to make this anniversary Now, with the anniversary behind us, we can turn our attention both to awardedawarded thethe honourhonour of ofCavaliere Cavaliere year so memorable. important business as usual – students from Italy whose bursaries we UfficialeUfficiale byby the President of of Italy. Italy. Now, with the anniversary behind us, we can turn our attention both to pay – and also to the Trust. I am sure I speak for all of us in wanting it TheThe honourhonour –– thethe same same as as that that importantto grow business and develop, as usual and – students perhaps from to fulfil Italy its whose commemorative bursaries we and pay cel- bestowedbestowed previously previously on on Keith Keith Killby – andeb alsorato rtoy therol eTrust. in n eI wam w sureays. I Pspeakerhap fors i tall is of ti muse in f owantingr us to itst toar tgrow talki ng –Killby comes – in comes appreciation in appreciation of his stren- of and togetherdevelop, aboutand perhaps what thatto fulfil future its might commemorative look like, bearingand celebratory in mind, uhisou strenuouss fund-ra ifundraisingsing efforts efforts on be honal f of role always,in new ways.the original Perhaps objectives it is time of for Keith us to Killby start talking and his together co-founders. about thebehalf Trust of theand Trust its student and its bursaries.student whatI wouldthat future like tomight hear lookideas like, from bearing our members. in mind, How always, can we the link original up with bursaries. objectives of Keith Killby and his co-founders. It also reflects the high esteem in the families of more escapers? What more can we do to strengthen our It also reflects the high esteem which the Trust’s values and objec- I wouldlinks like with to the hear Italian ideas communities from our members. who helped How them?can we How link do up we with keep in which the Trust’s values and tives are held in Italy. the familiesenthusiasm of morehigh, escapers? as our remaining What more “originals” can we do make to strengthen their last ourhome objectives are held in Italy. links with the Italian communities who helped them? How do we keep run? How do we engage future generations in the work? AA reportreport on thethe Appeal, whichwhich has has so enthusiasm high, as our remaining “originals” make their last home run? Do write to me at [email protected]. There’s lots to think about! farso farraised raised £775,000, £775,000, cancan bebe read on How do we engage future generations in the work? pageon page 9 9 Do writeNicholas to me at Young, [email protected]. Chairman There’s lots to think about! Nicholas Young, Trust Chairman PASQUALE TERRACCIANO, the Italian Ambassador to the UK, has his own family memories of the war- time Allied landings and the upheaval that resulted for civilian life. PASQUALEMr Terracciano TERRACCIANOtold the following anecdote, the at Italian a supper Ambassador that he kindly to the hosted UK, hasfor thehis Monteown family San Martino memories Trust of at thethe wartime Italian Alliedembassy landings late last and year. the Heupheaval recalled that that, resulted while forthe civilianAllies were life. bombing Salerno, his grandparents and Mrhis Terracciano father, then told a teenager, the following were anecdoteforced to at take a supper refuge that in thehe kindlyhills above hosted the for town. the Monte During San their Martino escape, Trust badly at in theneed Italian of food embassy and shelter, late last they year. spotted He recalled camp that,fires whileand made the Allies their waywere over bombing to them. Salerno, his grandparents and hisThere father, was then a problem, a teenager, however: were forced the men to takegathered refuge around in the the hills camp above were the convicts town. During who had their managed escape, to badly get out in of needthe oflocal food jail and – andshelter, Mr Terracciano’sthey spotted camp grandfather fires and was made a prominent their way judge.over to Quite them. possibly, he had jailed some of Therethose was men a himself.problem, however: the men gathered around the camp were convicts who had managed to get out of the local jail – and Mr Terracciano’s grandfather was a prominent judge. Quite possibly, he had jailed some Understandably, in such lawless times and given the circumstances, the family was nervous. But everything of those men himself. passed off peacefully. “We all need to help each other at this time,” was the message coming from the convicts. Understandably,They added: “When in such all lawlessthis is over, times you and are given a fair the judge circumstances, and the country the willfamily need was people nervous. like youBut toeverything build a new passedItaly.” off peacefully. “We all need to help each other at this time,” was the message coming from the convicts. They added: “When all this is over, you are a fair judge and the country will need people like you to build a new Italy.”Concluding his anecdote, and wishing well to the work of the Monte San Martino Trust, Mr Terracciano said Concludingthat the incident his anecdote, showed and that wishing tragedy well could to bringthe work the ofbest the out Monte of everyone. San Martino Trust, Mr Terracciano said that the incident showed that tragedy could bring the best out of everyone. he Monte San Martino Trust he Monte San Martino Trust has had has had several key mo- several key moments since it was SNAPSHOTSSNAPSHOTS OFOF 20132013 ments since it was founded founded by Keith Killby in 1989:A the memorable year A PICTORIAL RECORD A memorable year A PICTORIAL RECORD T byarrival Keith of Killbythe first in students 1989: standsthe out, arrivalTas does of the the introduction first students of the stands Fontanellato out, as does the introduction of the Fontanellato annual lunch- Clockwise:Clockwise: PoWs FrankFrank Unwin Unwin th eon.annual But luncheon. in terms But of ina termscomplete of a calendarcomplete year,calendar it wouldyear, itbe would hard beto hardbeat to 2013. beat 2013.This markedThis marked the 70ththe 70 andand Michael LaceyLacey with with anniversaryanniversary of of the the Armistice Armistice with with Italy, Italy, which which precipitated precipitated the the mass mass breakout break-out of prisonersof prisoners of warof war – the – themen men who who Fontanellato’sFontanellato’s deputydeputy mayor mayor werewere to to experience experience countless countless acts acts of of bravery bravery and and kindness kindness at at the the hands hands of of the the contadini contadini in in the the countryside. countryside. FrancescoFrancesco Trivelloni;Trivelloni; During 2013, as in previous years, young Italians came on Trust bursaries to study at the excellent language During 2013, as in previous years, young Italians came on Trust bursaries to study at the excellent language AmbassadorAmbassador ChristopherChristopher schools we use at Wheatley and in London – our thank you to the Italian people. Throughout the year, too, the schools we use at Wheatley and in London – our thank-you to the Italian people. Throughout the year, too, the £1m PrenticePrentice presents MBE MBE to to £1m Appeal to fund the bursaries for the long term, which started in late 2011, rolled on under the chairmanship Appeal to fund the bursaries for the long term, which started in late 2011, rolled on under the chairmanship of the AntonioAntonio Millozzi; TennaTenna Valley Valley of the indefatigable (and persuasive) Vanni Treves (see page 9). indefatigable (and persuasive) Vanni Treves (see page 9). warwar veteranveteran Guerrino Balacco; Balacco; Meanwhile, we were planning for two events that were to take place in Italy in September. One was the first walkers at Servigliano; Meanwhile, we were planning for two events that were to take place in Italy in September. One was the first Free- walkers at Servigliano; Freedom Trail in the Marche, based at Servigliano, site of the former PG59 camp. In truth, the bulk of the memorial stone at former PoW dom Trail in the Marche, based at Servigliano, site of the former PG59 camp. In truth, the bulk of the organisa- memorial stone at former PoW camp in Fontanellato; the de organisationtion was done was by done Roger by StantonRoger Stanton and his and colleagues his colleagues in the WW2in the WW2Escape Escape Lines MemorialLines Memorial Society. Society. About About 40 walk- camp in Fontanellato; the de Burgh expedition over the Alps 40ers, walkers, covering covering 15 miles 15 a milesday through a day throughthe rolling the countryside,rolling countryside, had a thoroughly had a thoroughly enjoyable enjoyable – and very – andemotional very – Burgh expedition over the Alps emotionaltime as they – time passed as they through passed villages through that villages had hidden that had PoWs. hidden Perhaps PoWs. the Perhaps most haunting the most momenthaunting came moment at the came site of atan the iron site cross of an near iron Montelparo. cross near Montelparo. It marks the It spot marks where the spota British where escaper a British had escaper been shot had deadbeen byshot the dead Germans by the and GermansFascists. andThe Fascists. locals knew The localshim as knew “Giorgio”. him as “Giorgio”.But who was But this who man? was thisSince man? then, Since his then,identity his hasidentity been has established been establishedand, in May and, 2014 in May when 2014 the whenFreedom the FreedomTrail again Trail visited again Montelparo,visited Montelparo, a memorial a memorial to Signalman to Signalman Sidney Sidney Smith of SmithGlasgow of Glasgow was unveiled was unveiled (see page (see 5 for page report 5 for of report the ceremony of the ceremony and the 2014 and the Trail). 2014 Trail). TheThe finafinall dayday of the fourfour-day-day TrailTrail inin 20132013 was was a avery very important important one one for for the the Trust. Trust. The The British British ambassador, ambassador, Chris- Christophertopher Prentice, Prentice, came came to Monte to Monte San MartinoSan Martino from fromRome Rome to present to present the Trust’s the Trust’s representative representative in Italy, in Italy,Antonio AntonioMillozzi, Millozzi, with an withhonorary an honorary MBE for MBE services for servicesto charity. to Wecharity. congratulate We congratulate him warmly. him warmly. ThatThat ssameame weekend, weekend, a alarge large number number of of MSMT MSMT supporters supporters – 70,– 70, in infact fact – were– were travelling travelling to Fontanellato,to Fontanellato, near near ParmaParma,, toto celebrate celebrate thethe 70th70th anniversary at thethe invitationinvitation ofof itsits deputydeputy mayor,mayor, FrancescoFrancesco Trivelloni,Trivelloni, himselfhimself aa for- formermer MSMT MSMT student. student. This This was was an an amazingamazing experience.experience. It waswas instructiveinstructive – – a seminara seminar on on1943 1943 took took place. place. It was It was movingmoving –– suchsuch as as when when former former PoWs PoWs Michael Michael Lacey Lacey and and Frank Frank Unwin Unwin opened opened the the gates gates of PG49of PG49 camp camp (now (now a a rehabilitationrehabilitation centre)centre) after after a a ceremony ceremony on on the the Sunday; Sunday; and and when when Michael Michael greeted greeted Ardua Ardua Ferrari, Ferrari, who who had had been been a abrave brave little little girl girl when when her her family family sheltered sheltered him. him. And And it itwas was such such fun fun.. The The lunch lunch hosted hosted by by the the Rivalazzo Rivalazzo countryside coun- trysideinn, with inn, about with 100about diners, 100 diners, made formade a forperfect a perfect start. start.By the By time the timea joyous a joyous performance performance of arias of arias by a by brass a brass quintet quintetand three and tenors three hadtenors concluded had concluded at Fontanellato’s at Fontanellato’s theatre theatre that night, that thenight, atmosphere the atmosphere had become had become euphoric. euphoric. TheThe Trust Trust is is extremely extremely fortunate fortunate to to have have a finea fine photographic photographic record record of ofboth both the the Freedom Freedom Trail Trail and and the theFontanellato Fontanellato celebrations.celebrations. Ibrahim Ibrahim Malla, Malla, a aprofessional professional photographer, photographer, generously generously gave gave up up his his time time to taketo take photos, photos, aided aided by hisby his wife,wife, Silvia. Silvia. Some Some of of his his work work can can be be seen seen on on the the facing facing page. page. BackBack inin the the UK, UK, other other noteworthy noteworthy events events took took place place in in the the autumn. autumn. One One was was the the launch launch at theat theImperial Imperial War War MuseumMuseum of of the the wartime wartime memoirs memoirs of of Mrs Mrs Lucy Lucy de de Burgh, Burgh, who who was was one one of ofthe the few few women women serving serving with with the Alliedthe Allied armiesarmies inin Italy. Italy. Sir Sir Max Max Hastings Hastings gave gave an an address address putting putting her her book, book, My My Italian Italian Adventures: Adventures: An AnEnglish English Girl Girl at at War,War ,in in its its historical historical context. context. There There was was also also a suppera supper at atthe the Italian Italian embassy embassy on behalfon behalf of theof theTrust, Trust, kindly kindly hosted hosted byby the the Italian Italian Ambassador, Ambassador, Pasquale Pasquale Terracciano. Terracciano. In In addition, addition, BBC BBC Radio Radio 4 broadcast 4 broadcast a two-part a two-part programme programme on on thethe Armistice Armistice and and the the PoWs, PoWs, presented presented by by Edward Edward Stourton. Stourton. OnOn the backback ofof all all this this momentum, momentum, it was it wasnot surprisingnot surprising that the that annual the annualFontanellato Fontanellato luncheon luncheon, at the Royal, at the Over- Royalseas League Overseas on League 30th October, on 30th attracted October, more attracted supporters more supporters than ever than before ever (128). before We (128). were We treated were totreated a speech to a by Keithspeech Killby by Keith himself. Killby Peppering himself. Pepperingit with anecdotes, it with anecdotes, he related he how,

whenrelated serving how, when as a servingmedical as orderly a medical with orderly the S.A.S., with the he S.A.S., had been capturedhe had beenfour capturedtimes. The four final times. speech The finalwas given speech by wasChristopher given Woodhead,by Christopher introducing Woodhead, a gripping introducing video a of gripping the de Burghvideo of family’s the crossingde Burgh of family’sthe Alps crossing while retracing of the Alps Lt. Col.while Hugo retracing de Burgh’s Lt. escapeCol. Hugo to Zermatt de Burgh’s in 1943. escape Christopher’s to Zermatt intone 1943. was Christopher’s jocular, but few oftone his waslisteners jocular, were but deceived: few of hiswe werelisteners happy were to bedeceived: sitting atwe table inwere London happy rather to be than sitting actually at table scaling in London the 4,300 rather metre than-high actually summit ofscaling the Breithorn the 4,300 in metre-high mid-September, summit even of thethough Breithorn Champagne in mid- was servedSeptember, on the even summit. though Champagne was served on the summit. Left: Nick Young, MSMT chairman, speaks at the annualLeft: Nick Fontanellato Young, MSMT luncheon chairman, speaks at the annual Fontanellato luncheon John Simkins (see www.msmtrust .org.uk for full reports) John Simkins (see www.msmtrust.org.uk for full reports) 2 3 2 3 NickNick GentGent standsstands downdown as as treasurer treasurer TheThe dayday wewe honouredhonoured Sidney Sidney Smith Smith InIn 1 991997,7, Nick Nick Gent Gent (left) (left) spotted spotted an an article article in in a a newspaper newspaper thatthat intriguedintrigued him:him: itit AnneAnne CopleyCopley relates relates the the story story of PoWPoW waswas about about the the work work, of ofthe the Monte Monte San San Martino Martino Trust. Trust. Although Although Nick, Nick, who who has hasan ‘Giorgio’‘Giorgio’ and and the the moving moving tribute tribute to to him him Italianan Italian mother, mother, did not did himself not himself have a familyhave a connectionfamily connection with the PoWwith campsthe PoW in Italycamps and indid Italy not becomeand did annot Italophile become anuntil Italophile later in life,until he later was in keen life, to he learn was more. keen The ceremony that took place on 10th May 2014 in the Soto he learn wrote more. to SoKeith he wroteKillby, to the Keith MSMT Killby, founder. the MSMT “Keith founder. responded “Keith with respond- great Thehilltop ceremony town ofthat Montelparo, took place inon the 10 thMarche, May 2014 east inItaly, the alacrityed with and great I had alacrity no option and Ibut had to no sign option up,” butsays to Nick. sign up,” says Nick. hilltopwas extratown special,of Montelparo, even for in those the Marche,who have east participated Italy, was HeHe h ashas had had to to do do more more than than sign sign up. up. Earlier Earlier thisthis year,year, NickNick steppedstepped downdown asas extrain many special, events even to honourfor those PoWs who and have their Italianparticipated helpers. in many events to honour PoWs and their Italian helpers. treasurertreasurer after after nine nine years years in in the the post, post, having having originally originally been been invited invited toto becomebecome aa It took place during the Tenna Valley Freedom Trail and trusteetrustee by by Brian Brian Lett, Lett, the theprevious previous chairman. chairman. This Thiscoincides coincides with retirementwith retirement from It wastook promptedplace during by the Tennaprevious Valley Trail Freedomin the valley Trail lastand hisfrom professional his professional career, ascareer, a fund as manager a fund manager with Rathbones. with Rathbones. wasSeptember, prompted when by the we previous came across Trail inan the iron valley cross last said Sep- to TheThe Trust Trust owes owes Nick Nick a ahuge huge debt debt of of gratitude gratitude for for giving giving thethe TrustTrust thethe benefitbenefit ofof tember,mark thewhen spot we atcame which across a certain an iron “Giorgio” cross said had to beenmark his hisinvestment investment expertise expertise during during a period a period in whichin which the thework work of theof thetreasurer treasurer – and, – and, happily, happily, its fundsits funds – have – have in- thekilled. spot atAs which a member a certain of both “Giorgio” the MSMT had been and killed.the WW11 As a creasedincreased considerably. considerably. The Theknowledge knowledge that thatthe theTrust’s Trust’s portfolio portfolio was was in insuch such safe safe and and expert expert hands hands has has beenbeen of greatgreat memberEscape of Lines both Memorialthe MSMT Society, and the whichWW11 jointly Escape hosted Lines reassurancereassurance to fellow to fellow trustees trustees and and members. members. Memorialthe Trails, Society, I decided which to jointly investigate hosted thefurther. Trails, With I decid- the edassistance to investigate of Dennis further. Hill With of theIndiana assistance University of Dennis and TheThe Trust Trust is notis not losing losing Nick’s Nick’s services services because, because, although although he he hands hands over over as as treasurer treasurer to to JustinJustin dede Meo (see below),below), HillBritish of Indiana researcher University Brian Sims, and theBritish whole researcher story has Brianbeen he ishe continuing is continuing as asa trustee. a trustee. He He also also intends intends to to spend spend more more time time in in Italy Italy –– includingincluding participation in the FreedomFreedom Sims,revealed. the whole In parallel, story has Roger been Stanton, revealed. director In parallel, of ELMS, Roger TrailTrail in Liguriain Liguria in July, in July, led led by byBrian Brian Lett. Lett. Stanton,also organised director research.of ELMS, also organised research. Treasurer’s report, Page 9 Treasurer’s report, Page 9 TheThe outcome outcome was was the the unveiling unveiling of aof memorial a memorial stone stone and plaqueand plaqueon the oppositeon the opposite side of theside lane of fromthe lane the ironfrom cross, the with an inscription honouring Sidney and all the brave TheThe MSMT MSMT board board of of directorsdirectors has been strengthenedstrengthened by by the the appointment appointment of of two two new new trustees trustees – iron cross, with an inscription honouring Sidney and Italiansall the who brave sheltered Italians PoWs.who sheltered At least PoWs.100 people, At least includ- 100 Justin– Justin de Meo de Meoand andOmar Omar Bucchioni. Bucchioni. We We welcome welcome them them both both and and are are grateful grateful for for theirtheir valuablevaluable support andand ingpeople, Lt Col. including Peter Stoddart, Lt Col. ofPeter Sidney’s Stoddart, Royal of Sidney’sCorps of expertise.expertise. Signals, who had arrived from Nato offices near Rome, Royal Corps of Signals, who had arrived from Nato Marino Screpanti, mayor of Montelparo, townspeople and JustinJustin de de Meo Meo, who, who takes takes over over as astreasurer treasurer in insuccession succession to Nickto Nick Gent, Gent, was was brought brought up inup Italy in Italy and and England England and offices near Rome, Marino Screpanti, mayor of Lt Col Peter Stoddart lays a wreath, watched Trail walkers, attended a very moving ceremony. livesand near lives Salisbury. near Salisbury. His father His wasfather Italian was Italian and was and interned was interned on the on Isle the of Isle Man of Manduring during the second the second world world war. war. His Montelparo, townspeople and Trail walkers, attended a Ltby Col Marino Peter Screpanti,Stoddart lays Montelparo’s a wreath, watchedmayor EnglishHis English father-in father-in-law-law fought atfought Anzio. at Anzio. Wevery now moving know ceremony.that “Giorgio” was Signalman Sidney Sey- by Marino Screpanti, Montelparo’s mayor mour Smith, captured at the fall of Tobruk and imprisoned He Hehas h recentlyas recently retired retired after after a careera career in in business, business, specialising specialising in in the the acquisitionacquisition andand development of residential We now know that “Giorgio” was Signalman Sidney at Camp 53 Sforzacosta. How and when he escaped is unclear, but by November 1943 he was hiding at the house of buildings.buildings. An AnItalian Italian speaker, speaker, he visitshe visits Italy Italy regularly regularly and andis also is alsoa member a member of the of British the British Italian Italian Society. Society. He is He mar- is Seymour Smith, captured at the fall of Tobruk and imprisoned at Camp 53 Sforzacosta. How and when he escaped the Mazzoni family, just outside Montelparo. The War Crimes file at the National Archives contains witness state- ried,married, with three with adult three sons. adult sons. is unclear, but by November 1943 he was hiding at the house of the Mazzoni family, just outside Montelparo.st ments from the Mazzoni and Viozzi families (among others), from which the story of his murder on 21 March 1944 The War Crimes file at the National Archives contains witness statements from the Mazzoni and Viozzi families by the S.S. can be pieced together. Omar Bucchioni, nephew of Major General Dany Bucchioni, the partisan leader of the Val di Vara Brigade in (among others), from which the story of his murder on 21st March 1944 by the S.S. can be pieced together. OmarLiguria/northern Bucchioni Tuscany, nephew (obituary, of Major page General 10), Danyis himself Bucchioni, a former the student partisan of leaderthe Monte of the San Val Martino di Vara Trust. Brigade Over in Sidney came from Old Kilpatrick, near Glasgow, and was a clever boy, having studied geography and philosophy at Sidney came from Old Kilpatrick, near Glasgow, and was a clever boy, having studied geography and philosophy Liguria/northernthe past eight Tuscanyyears, he (obituary, has been pageinvolved 10), inis thehimself organisation a former ofstudent the Trust’s of the FreedomMonte San Trails Martino in that Trust. same Over part theof the University of Glasgow. His parents (his father was a plumber) were proud of his achievement, as evidenced in at the University of Glasgow. His parents (his father was a plumber) were proud of his achievement, as evidenced pastItaly. eight years, he has been involved in the organisation of the Trust’s Freedom Trails in that same part of Italy. the recital on his war grave at Coriano Ridge Cemetery, which includes a reference to his Masters degree. in the recital on his war grave at Coriano Ridge Cemetery, which includes a reference to his Masters degree. A long-term friend of founder Keith Killby, Omar, as well as being the only Italian trustee, is the first student to The ceremony was preceded by a marvellous lunch, in a beautifully cool crypt, laid on by Montelparo Comune. It A long-term friend of founder Keith Killby, Omar, as well as being the only Italian trustee, is the first student The ceremony was preceded by a marvellous lunch, in a beautifully cool crypt, laid on by Montelparo Comune. haveto joinedhave joined the board. the board. A qualified A qualified barrister barrister and andsolicitor solicitor in Englandin England and and Wales, Wales, he hetrained trained as as media media lawyer lawyer atat was especially welcome to the walkers, including 16 students from a school in San Benedetto, who concluded a walk Osborne Clarke and currently works as legal adviser at Sky. fromIt was Servigliano, especially where welcome the Trailto the was walkers, based, including with a stiff 16 uphillstudents climb from to a Montelparo. school in San The Benedetto, guests included who concluded Raimondo Osborne Clarke and currently works as legal adviser at Sky. a walk from Servigliano, where the Trail was based, with a stiff uphill climb to Montelparo. The guests included The full list of trustees is: Nick Young (chairman); Letitia Blake, (secretary); Justin de Meo (treasurer); Vanni Illuminati, who was a seven-year-old pupil at Montelparo Primary School in 1943, to whose class Sidney would read The full list of trustees is: Nick Young (chairman); Letitia Blake, (secretary); Justin de Meo (treasurer); Vanni Raimondo Illuminati, who was a seven-year-old pupil at Montelparo Primary School in 1943, to whose class Treves (Appeal chairman); Omar Bucchioni; Christine English; Caroline Gavin: Ian Laing; Tom Richardson. stories in Italian. Also present were Palmino Viozzi, 12 years old at the time, who witnessed some of the events lead- Treves (Appeal chairman); Omar Bucchioni; Christine English; Caroline Gavin: Ian Laing; Tom Richardson. ingSidney up to Sidney’swould read murder. stories After in Italian. lunch, Also Raimondo present gave were a Palminovery moving Viozzi, account 12 years of his old memories at the time, of Sydney,who witnessed who was The administrator is John Simkins. The representative in Italy is Antonio Millozzi and the UK student organiser is The administrator is John Simkins. The representative in Italy is Antonio Millozzi and the UK student organiser aboutsome 6ft of tall. the “Heevents was leading friendly up and to kind,Sidney’s always murder. smiling. After We lunch, were Raimondovery fond ofgave him a andvery always moving behaved account well of hiswhen Edward Gretton. is Edward Gretton. hememories read to us. of He Sydney, was different who was from about some 6ft of tall. the “He other was prisoners friendly of and war kind, because always he was smiling. a graduate. We were He veryhimself fond had chosenof him the and name always ‘Giorgio’ behaved for wellwhen when he was he inread hiding.” to us. He was different from some of the other prisoners of war A MEMORIAL STONE has been erected to Lt. Col Hugo de Burgh, whose brave actions in leading Palminobecause (whose he was sister a graduate. gave evidence He himself to the had subsequent chosen the War name Crimes ‘Giorgio’ investigation for when andhe was whose in hiding.” statement still lies in the A MEMORIALPoWs out of STONEFontanellato has been in September erected to 1943 Lt. Coland Hugoin crossing de Burgh, the Alps whose to Switzerland brave actions make in leadinghim one NationalPalmino Archives), (whose sister then gavetold usevidence of the eventsto the subsequentleading up toWar Sidney’s Crimes death. investigation and whose statement still lies in of the best known British escapers. PoWs out of Fontanellato in September 1943 and in crossing the Alps to Switzerland make him one of It theappears National that Archives),two Germans then appeared told us ofat thethe eventsfarm where leading Sidney up to wasSidney’s staying death. and took him away. One German left to the bestOn known15th March, British the escapers. stone was placed in the de Burgh graveyard at Maudlins, Naas, Co Kildare. goIt to app anotherears that farm two toGermans collect appeared another atPoW. the farmSidney where and Sidney his captor was stayingthen stopped and took at himthe away.Viozzi One farm German nearby left and th On 15Maudlins March, is the a short stone walk was fromplaced Oldtown, in the de seat Burgh of the graveyard de Burghs at since Maudlins, the late Naas, 17th Co century. Kildare. The Palminoto go to witnessed another farm Sidney to collectasking anotherfor water. PoW. A jug Sidney was broughtand his captorto him thenand, stoppedafter taking at the a coupleViozzi farmof gulps, nearby he turnedand th Maudlinsminister is a read short Col. walk de from Burgh’s Oldtown, favourite seat psalm, of the de121 Burghs – “I will since lift theup minelate 17 eyes century. unto the The hills minister whence andPalmino hit his witnessedcaptor over Sidney the head asking with for the water. jug. A A jug struggle was brought ensued to but him Sidney and, after was taking overpowered. a couple ofOn gulps, the return he turned of the read comethCol. de myBurgh’s help”. favourite psalm, 121 – “I will lift up mine eyes unto the hills whence cometh my otherand Germanhit his captor (the other over PoWthe head having with escaped the jug. out A struggle of a window) ensued he but was Sidney led up was the overpowered. road leading toOn Montelparo. the return of the help”.Col. de Burgh, OBE, MC, who died in 1954, had a distinguished career as a soldier and horseman. Palminoother German did not (thesee whatother happened PoW having next escaped but other out witness of a window) statements he was on ledfile upshow the thatroad they leading were to met Montelparo. on the road by Col. Hede Burgh,served OBE,in the MC,first who world died war, in 1954,in West had Africa,a distinguished India and career Afghanistan, as a soldier and andagain horseman. in the second He a bandPalm inoof aboutdid not six see Germans what happened (probably next from but theother S.S. witness Brandenberg statements Division). on file showOn hearing that they that were Sidney met hadon the attacked road servedworld in the war, first when world he was war, captured in West in Africa, north IndiaAfrica. and Afghanistan, and again in the second world oneby of a hisband captors of about they sixstarted Germans to beat (probably him. When from he fellthe toS.S. the Brandenberg ground he was Division). shot several On hearingtimes and that his Sidney body was had war, Duringwhen he the was Allied captured occupation in north of Italy,Africa. he was Officer Commanding the Allied Screening Commission. attacked one of his captors they started to beat him. When he fell to the ground he was shot several times and his

4 4During the Allied occupation of Italy, he was Officer Commanding the Allied Screening Commission. 5 5 bodyleft onwas the left road. on thePalmino road. PalminoViozzi (pictured Viozzi (pictured left) and left his) andfather his wentfather up a wentfew hoursup a laterfew hoursand saw later Sidney’s and saw body, Sidney’s which body,was given which a postwas- mortemgiven a and Italian rambles post-mortemthen buried withand duethen ceremony buried within the due Montelparo ceremony cemetery. in the Montelparo(The body was Italian rambles cemetery.moved to (TheCoriano body Ridge was warmoved grave to later.)Coriano Raimondo Ridge war recalled grave that later.) all the t was hardly a ramble for Tony Gregson (father and grand- t was hardly a ramble for Tony Gregson (father and Raimondoschool-children recalled followed that all the the procession. school children Both followedthe Viozzi the and procession. the Mazzini father of the current “ramblers”) who escaped from families were lucky to escape the usual fate of those who assisted Allied grandfather of the current “ramblers”) who escaped Both the Viozzi and the Mazzini families were lucky to escape the usual Bologna’s PG19 under a rations lorry on 9th September PoWs, namely the burning down of their homes and outbuildings. from Bologna’s PG19 under a rations lorry on 9th fate of those who assisted Allied PoWs, namely the burning down of their 1943 and walked south-east, following the spine of the Apennines,September to cross enemy 1943 linesand andwalked rejoin southeast, the Allies following near Cassino the homesAfter andlunch, outbuildings. very moved by the emotional recollections of Sidney, we II on 6thspine November. of the Apennines, Tony died, to agedcross 92, enemy in October lines and 2012 rejoin and thehis Aftwalkeder lunch, for 15very minutes moved out by of the town emotional to the site recollections of the memorial. of Sidney, The wemayor said the people of Montelparo had never forgotten Sidney. They had kept familyAllies decided near Cassinoto take turns on 6th to November.follow his route,Tony died,writing aged our 92, own in walked for 15 minutes out of town to the site of the memorial. The mayor fresh flowers at the site and made the sign of the cross when passing it. journalOctober as we 2012 go. and his family decided to take turns to follow his said the people of Montelparo had never forgotten Sidney. They had kept Teddyroute, Keen, writing Tony’s our grandson,own journal was as thewe go.first to take up the baton freshGeoff flowers Cowling, at thechairman site and of ELMS,made the readsign outof the a message cross when from passing Keith Brown,it. Minister for Transport and Veterans in the Scottish Government, in appreci- and Teddset offy Keen,from theTony’s camp grandson, in Bologna was (now the firstan army to take barracks) up the inbaton May and 2013 set to off walk from to the the camptop of in Monte Bologna Falterona, (now an Geoff Cowling, chairman of ELMS, read out a message from Keith ation of the event. I then gave an account of Sidney’s background. He only the highestarmy barracks) mountain in in May the 2013area toto thewalk east to ofthe Florence. top of Monte Tony’s Falterona, daughter the Myfanwy highest mountain(that’s me) in continued the area to the the jour- east Brown, Minister for Transport and Veterans in the Scottish Government, had one sister, who never married, and no living descendants have yet been ney offrom Florence. the top Tony’sof Monte daughter Falterona Myfanwy in September, (that’s me)finishing continued a little the further journey south from-east the at topSansepolcro. of Monte KindFalterona people in in appreciation of the event. I then gave an account of Sidney’s back- found, despite an article in the Glasgow-based Herald newspaper. It is, donatedSeptember, £3,500 finishingto the charities a little I wasfurther supporting south-east – t heat Sansepolcro.Monte San Martino Kind people Trust anddonated Afghan £3,500 Connection to the charities. I was ground. He only had one sister, who never married, and no living de- therefore, all the more poignant that his memory has been kept alive by Tonysupporting carried a –home the Monte-made Sanbutton Martino compass, Trust a andwater Afghan bottle Connection. and a small diary. He kept to high and remote paths as scendants have yet been found, despite an article in the Glasgow-based Italians with whom he shared only a few months. muchTony as possible carried aand home-made slept under button leaves compass, in the woods a water when bottle unable and a to small find diary.other Heshelter. kept Teddyto high and and I remote each carried paths asa Herald newspaper. It is, therefore, all the more poignant that his memory tent,much stove, as provisions possible and and slept extra under clothes leaves – and in the we woods weren’t when expecting unable toto bumpfind otherinto theshelter. enemy Teddy around and Ievery each corner.carried a hasThe been “Silenzio” kept alive (Italian by Italians version with of thewhom Last he Post) shared was only played. a few A months. wreath was laid by Cristina Franca on behalf of Montelparo. Cristina and her mother So, hardlytent, stove, comparable, provisions but and we extra both clothesfelt we –experienced and we weren’t something expecting of whatto bump Dad/Grandpa into the enemy must aroundhave felt every as he corner. fol- Theand “Silgrandmotherenzio” (Italian have beenversion responsible of the Last for Post)the flowers was played. at the siteA wreath for many lowedSo, the hardly same comparable, paths 70 years but earlier. we both felt we experienced something of what Dad/Grandpa must have felt as he was laid by Cristina Franca on behalf of Montelparo. Cristina and her years, remembering, too, Cristina’s great-uncle Giuseppe Biribei, who died We followedhad both thehoped same to pathsconnect 70 withyears people earlier. and places along the way. For Teddy, the highlight was an unexpected mother and grandmotherth have been responsible for the flowers at the a PoW in Germany on 5 April 1945 and is buried at the Italian war graves encounterWe had with both a hopedcouple to who connect live beside with people the ruin and of places a cottage along where the way.Tony For was Teddy, nursed the back highlight to health was when an unexpected suffering site for many years, remembering, too, Cristina’s great-uncle Giuseppe cemetery in Hamburg. Wreaths were also laid by Steve Sims for MSMT, fromencounter pneumonia. with Alessandro a couple who and live Alessandra beside the showed ruin of Teddy a cottage the samewhere hospitality Tony was nursed– albeit back in his to tenthealth in theirwhen garden suffer- Biribei, who died a PoW in Germany on 5th April 1945 and is buried at Mike Davidson (ELMS), Lt Col Stoddart and by Roger Stanton for the and ingnot fromsharing pneumonia. a bed with Alessandro two farmworkers and Alessandra like Tony showed – and Teddythey discussed the same the hospitality past over – aalbeit delicious in his supper tent in and their a the Italian war graves cemetery in Hamburg. Wreaths were also laid by Royal Signals Association. Roger read the Ode of Remembrance. few gardenglasses and of vino, not sharing despite a not bed speaking with two eachfarmworkers others’ languages. like Tony –For and me, they it discussedwas my meeting the past with over a a priest delicious who supper lived Steve Sims for MSMT, Mike Davidson (ELMS), Lt Col Stoddartth and by Nearby, the little church of Santa Maria, dating from the 16 century, had in anand isolated a few churchglasses perchedof vino, ondespite a cliffside, not speaking just above each a others’cottage languages. where Dad For had me, spent it was a night, my meeting which I withreached a priest 70 Roger Stanton for the Royal Signals Association. Roger read the Ode of been opened especially and filled with fresh flowers. It offered a fitting yearswho to thelived day in afteran isolated he had churchbeen there. perched Communication on a cliffside, was just laborious; above a cottage however, where I got Dad a bit had choked spent athinking night, which about I Remembrance. opportunity for peaceful reflection after a very emotional day. my fatherreached gazing 70 years out overto the the day same after valley, he had and been the there.priest Communicationjust put his arms wasround laborious; me and wordshowever, weren’t I got needed. a bit choked Nearby, the little church of Santa Maria, dating from the 16th century, had been opened especially and filled with A video of the event is at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfAZy2J-RPI Youthinking certainly about appreciate my father friendly gazing human out overcontact the whensame you’revalley, alone.and the Tony priest must just have put hisfelt arms this evenround more me and strongly, words fresh flowers. It offered a fitting opportunity for peaceful reflection after a very emotional day. weren’t needed. especially since he depended on the people he met to help him and not betray him. People in AThe vide ceremonyo of the event for isSidney at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OfAZy2J-RPI Smith was not the only highlight of the Tenna Valley trail, which ran from May 7- The priest just the countrysideYou certainly don’t appreciateseem to have friendly changed human in essence contact fromwhen those you’re brave alone. contadini Tony must who have risked felt The12 2014.ceremony At least for Sidneythree families Smith wasfound not out the fresh only informationhighlight of theabout Tenna their Valley fathers’ trail, escapes, which andran fromin some May cases put ‘Thehis arms priest justtheir homesthis evenand morelives strongly,to shelter especially him. Both since Teddy he dependedand I also on spent the people time with he met the to family help him in Bologna who lived in the farmhouse just outside the camp and who sheltered him immediately 7-12even 2014. met descendantsAt least three of familiesfamilies foundwho had out helped fresh informationthem. About about 30 walkers their fathers’came out escapes, from Britain and in andsome were and not betray him. People in the countryside don’t seem to have changed in essence roundput me hisand arms after his escape after finding him hiding in their manure heap. Dad had visited them several casesjoined even by metItalians descendants and expatriates of families living who in had the helpedarea. The them. Trail, About as in 30 September walkers came 2013, out took from the Britain form ofand three from those brave contadini who risked their homes and lives to shelter him. Both Teddy wordsround weren’t me andtimes on his motorbike and the friendship between our two families is hugely important to werewalks joined on successive by Italians days and expatriatesbased at Servigliano, living in the the area. site The of Trail,Camp as 59. in SeptemberMSMT is hugely2013, took grateful the form to Rogerof and I also spent time with the family in Bologna who lived in the farmhouse just outside them and to us. threeStanton, walks director on successive of the daysWW11 based Escape at Servigliano, Lines Memorial the site Society, of Camp which 59. MSMT organised is hugely it, and grateful to Steve to RogerSims and neededwords weren’t the camp and who sheltered him immediately after his escape after finding him hiding in Charles Perry, who drove the back-up vehicle. Invaluable help came from Tenna Valley residents Giuseppe Stanton, director of the WW11 Escape Lines Memorial Society, which organised it, and to Steve Sims and needed’We boththeir experienced manure heap. moments Dad hadof discomfort. visited them Picture several Teddy times withon his his motorbike trousers anddown, the having friend- Millozzi and Ian McCarthy. A blog of the walk can be found at www.msmtrust.org.uk. Charles Perry, who drove the back-up vehicle. Invaluable help came from Tenna Valley residents Giuseppe iodine liberally applied to hisship left betweenbuttock byour an two old families lady after is hugelyhaving importanthad a chunk to themof it removedand to us. by her less-friendly dog. And me in my tent one night hearing an animal outside (there are wolves in the Apennines) and texting my son MillozziThe Trust and also Ian wishesMcCarthy. “buon A blogviaggio” of the to walk walkers can beon foundthe Rossano at www.msmtrust.org.uk Valley Freedom Trail,. led by Brian Lett, We both experienced moments of discomfort. Picture Teddy with his trousers down, having iodine liberally Jack to ask whether I should put my food inside or outside, only to receive a text back saying that it made no differ- which runs from July 1-5. applied to his left buttock by an old lady after having had a chunk of it removed by her less-friendly dog. And me The Trust also wishes “buon viaggio” to walkers on the Rossano Valley Freedom Trail, led by Brian Lett, ence since it was only the starter! which runs from July 1-5. in my tent one night hearing an animal outside (there are wolves in the Apennines) and texting my son Jack to ask THE TRUST’S STUDENTS It rainedwhether on bothI should of us put and my we food slipped inside and or outside,slid on steep,only to muddy receive paths. a text Teddy’s back saying stove that failed it made and nohe differencehad to manage since withit oats was and only polenta the starter! swelled with cold water. My sleeping mat developed a puncture and dumped me on the cold, THE TRUST’S STUDENTS hard ground. But it didn’t matter: we weren’t in fear for our lives, wearing the only clothes we had, or unsure of MSMTMSMT is is bringingbringing 27at leastyoung 20 Italians young toItalians England to England to study to this study year, this in year,keeping in keeping with a programmewith a programme that has that It rained on both of us and we slipped and slid on steep, muddy paths. Teddy’s stove failed and he had to manage has provided about 500 one-month bursaries. They will go either to Central School, London, or CES-Oxford finding shelter for the night (even if it was a sodden tent!). Then the sun would come out and you would catch your provided about 500 one-month bursaries. They will go either to Central School, London, or CES-Oxford with oats and polenta swelled with cold water. My sleeping mat developed a puncture and dumped me on the cold, House, in Wheatley, near Oxford. Each bursary is worth about £2,000. The students come from regions where breath at a sudden, sweeping view from a clearing on the ridge or at the beauty of shafts of sunlight piercing the House, in Wheatley, near Oxford. Each bursary is worth about £2,000. The students come from regions where hard ground. But it didn’t matter: we weren’t in fear for our lives, wearing the only clothes we had, or unsure of there were prisoner of war camps, including the Marche, Emilia-Romagna and Abruzzo. The first to arrive, in swirling mists in the woods. And you might even feel a pang of envy of Tony’s true adventure. there were prisoner of war camps, including the Marche, Emilia-Romagna and Abruzzo. The first to arrive, in finding shelter for the night (even if it was a sodden tent!). Then the sun would come out and you would catch your March, was Alessandra Terenziani, who won a drawing competition at Fontanellato for a logo to celebrate the When we, as a family, eventually reach the place near Cassino where Dad crossed enemy lines, we plan to climb up March,th was Alessandra Terenziani, who won a drawing competition at Fontanellato for a logo to celebrate the breath at a sudden, sweeping view from a clearing on the ridge or at the beauty of shafts of sunlight piercing the 70 anniversary of the Armistice. She reports that, at Oxford, she “had a wonderful experience with people, to a high ledge where he spent several days watching troop movements before making his break for freedom. He 70th anniversary of the Armistice. She reports that, at Oxford, she “had a wonderful experience with people, swirling mists in the woods. And you might even feel a pang of envy of Tony’s true adventure. both with the teachers and with international students”. tried signalling to the Allies with a home-made heliograph, which he hid there rather than risk being caught with it both with the teachers and with international students”. When we, as a family, eventually reach the place near Cassino where Dad crossed enemy lines, we plan to climb The Trust asks students to grade their tuition, accommodation, reception at the airport by Trust members, and on him and shot as a spy. We’ll carry a bottle or two of vino up with us to celebrate the end of our walk and raise a up to a high ledge where he spent several days watching troop movements before making his break for freedom. Thecontacts Trust with asks ourstudents representatives to grade theirin Italy tuition, and theaccommodation, UK. Sixteen ofreception the students at the responded airport by (13 Trust went members, to London glass to him. Wouldn’t it be amazing if, as a finale, we found the heliograph? and contacts with our representatives in Italy and the UK. Sixteen of the students responded (13 went to He tried signalling to the Allies with a home-made heliograph, which he hid there rather than risk being caught and three to Oxford). High marks were received in all categories. We are extremely grateful to Edward Gretton, My eldest son Henry has recently set off to pick up the path where I left off. There’s still an awful long way to go. London and three to Oxford). High marks were received in all categories. We are extremely grateful to Edward with it on him and shot as a spy. We’ll carry a bottle or two of vino up with us to celebrate the end of our walk and the UK student organiser, for his hard work, and also to the Trust members who give up their time to meet stu- But we have all the time in the world to get there and, after all, for us it’s just a ramble. Gretton,dents at the airports UK student and take organiser, them tofor their his hard lodgings. work, andWe alsoare toalways the Trust looking members for more who giveGreeters: up their please time emailto raise a glass to him. Wouldn’t it be amazing if, as a finale, we found the heliograph? [email protected] students at airports ifand you take can them help. to their lodgings. We are always looking for more Greeters: please email MyfanwyMy eldest Adams son Henry has recently set off to pick up the path where I left off. There’s still an awful long way to go. [email protected] if you can help. But we have all the time in the world to get there and, after all, for us it’s just a ramble. 7 6 6 Myfanwy Adams 7 t comes as no surprise that there has been an explo- t sioncomes of researchas no surprise into family that therehistory has coinciding been an explowith - sionthe riseof researchof the internet. into family Something history that coinciding might have with DiggingDigging around around in TREASURER’STREASURER’S REPORT REPORT thetaken rise weeks of the and internet. several Somethingtrips to the thatarchives might to un-have aving resigned as Treasurer earlier this year, after nine years in the post, this is my last report and I am taken weeks and several trips to the archives to pleasedaving resignedto be handing as Treasurer over to theearlier new this Treasurer year, after in the nine knowledge years in thethat post, the charity’s this is my financial last report position and I isam IIcover can now be found in a matter of minutes. And per- pleased to be handing over to the new Treasurer in the knowledge that the charity’s financial position uncover can now be found in a matter of minutes. in good shape. Total assets now amount to a little over £1,100,000. Of this, slightly less than £70,000 haps more exciting is the ease with which individuals from inServigliano Servigliano And perhaps more exciting is the ease with which isis held in ingood cash, shape. with theTotal balance assets in now the investment amount to portfolio. a little over This £1,100,000.remains conservatively Of this, slightly deployed less and than individualsdifferent corners from differentof the world corners can of make the worldcontact, can exchange make contact, photos exchangeand artefacts, photos and and add artefacts, enormously and addboth to H £70,000 is held in cash, with the balance in the investment portfolio. This remains conservatively de- well diversified, and continues to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns. At about this time last year, the total ployed and well diversified, and continues to generate attractive risk-adjusted returns. At about this time last year, enormouslytheir own bothstories to theirand ownto historicalstories and research to historical in researchgeneral. inOne general. example One exampleof this ofcan this be can found be found at athttp:// assetsH were approximately £800,000. the total assets were approximately £800,000. camp59survivors.wordpress.com/http://camp59survivors.wordpress.com/, a website, a maintained website maintained by Dennis by Hill Dennis of Indiana Hill of Uni- The principal reason for the further improvement in finances is the inflows arising from the Appeal, launched versity,Indiana USA.University, Dennis’s USA. father Dennis’s was a PoWfather at wasPG59 a PoWServigliano at PG59 and, Servigliano having interviewed and, atThe the principal end of 2011. reason The for total the amountfurther improvementraised, including in finances sums pledged, is the inflowsis now £775,000.arising from This the is Appeal, a very creditable launched at hishaving father interviewed in the 1980s, his hefather decided in the to 1980s,honour he his decided name and to honourall others his who name went and through all achievementthe end of 2011. for a Thesmall, total specialist amount charity raised, and including I applaud sums the pledged,efforts and is nowenergy £775,000. of our Appeal This ischairman, a very creditable Vanni achievement for a small, specialist charity and I applaud the efforts and energy of our Appeal chairman, Vanni theothers same who experiences went through by startingthe same a experiencessimple blog byin startingJanuary a 2008. simple The blog first in Januaryentry was a Treves. Please read his report, below. 2008. The first entry was a transcript of Dennis’s interview with his father. Treves. Please read his report, below. transcript of Dennis’s interview with his father. Given our commitment to provide around 20 bursaries each year to Italian students, which now cost the Trust He may not have realised what he was starting, but over the past six years he theGiven best our part commitment of £40,000 toannually, provide we around are aiming 20 bursaries to increase each assets year toto Italianover £1.5m. students, If one which allows now for cost the the expenses Trust the He may not have realised what he was starting, but over the past six years he has has amassed a wealth of material, nearly all supplied by individuals who are ofbest running part of the £40,000 charity annually, as well, the we total are aimingannual coststo increase are typically assets aboutto over £50,000. £1.5m. AtIf onethis level,allows we for should the expenses be well of running the charity as well, the total annual costs are typically about £50,000. At this level, we should be well amassedsearching a wealthfor information of material, about nearly their all suppliedown family by individuals members, whobe theyare searching fathers, for placed to finance all outgoings from the investments. placed to finance all outgoings from the investments. informationgrandfathers, about uncles their or ownothers. family Having members, initially be concentrated they fathers, on grandfathers, PG59, Dennis uncles is or We still, therefore, have some way to go – although we are, of course, extremely grateful to all our supporters, as others.slowly Havingextending initially his reach concentrated as people on come PG59, to Dennis him with is slowly information extending about his other reach as itWe is still,only therefore,with your havehelp thatsome we way have to beengo – althoughable to get we to are, our ofcurrent course, position. extremely We gratefulare mindful to all of our the supporters, fact that our as it is only with your help that we have been able to get to our current position. We are mindful of the fact that our peoplecamps. comeAnd perhapsto him mostwith gratifyingly,information aboutcontacts other made camps. through And his perhaps website most have gratifyled - obligations are not only towards the Italian students who enjoy our bursaries but also to you, who continue to be obligations are not only towards the Italian students who enjoy our bursaries but also to you, who continue to be so ingly,to face-to-face contacts meetingsmade through between his childrenwebsite ofhave both led the to Italian face- tohelpers-face andmeetings the Allied between so generous in your support. These obligations have a strong bearing on the way we run the finances of the charity. soldiers they kept safe. generous in your support. These obligations have a strong bearing on the way we run the finances of the charity. children of both the Italian helpers and the Allied soldiers they kept safe. Finally, I would like to take the opportunity of wishing my successor, Justin de Meo, every success in his new Finally, I would like to take the opportunity of wishing my successor, Justin de Meo, every success in his new What started as a personal project with limited aims has become a vital tool for post. I have every confidence in him. What started as a personal project with limited aims has become a vital tool for re- post. I have every confidence in him. research in this area and a recommended first stop for anyone starting out on their Nicholas Gent Dennis Hill at searchown search. in this Dennisarea and is a farrecommended too self-effacing first stop about for his anyone efforts, starting so this out is on a theirgood own Nicholas Gent DennisServigliano Hill at search.opportunity Dennis for is us far to too thank self him-effacing for his about continuing his efforts, commitment so this is and a good hard opportunity work. for Servigliano usDen tonis thank also him made for hisa significant continuing contributioncommitment to and the hard publication work. last year of Keith Our Appeal… the target in sight Killby’s book, In Combat, Unarmed, a project led by Keith’s nephew, Malcolm Angus. Dennis generously Our Appeal… the target in sight Dennis also made a significant contribution to the publication last year of Keith Vanni Treves writes assistedKillby’s in book, its design In Combat, and production. Unarmed, a project led by Keith’s nephew, Malcolm Angus. Dennis generously assisted Vanni Treves writes AtAt thisthis timetime last year, thethe AppealAppeal had had raised raised £475,000. £475,000. That That figure figure hashas now now increased increased to to £720,000, £720,000, Anin itsne design Copley and production. withwith firm firm promises promises in in hand hand totalling totalling £55,000 £55,000 on on top top of of that. that. Anne Copley So,So, byby thethe end of 2014 wewe will,will, barringbarring accidents, accidents, be be about about 80 80 per per cent cent of of the the way way towards towards our our target target of £1m. When we reach it, we can be confident that, for generations to come, the Trust will continue of £1m. When we reach it, we can be confident that, for generations to come, the Trust will continue n the late 1970s, I was watching the News on televi- toto recognise,recognise, throughthrough itsits bursariesbursaries toto youngyoung ItalianItalian people,people, thethe unforgettableunforgettable braverybravery and generosity of n the late 1970s,sion I was with watching my family the one News evening. on television It was covering with my the family theof theItalian Italian contadini contadini who who sheltered sheltered Allied Allied PoWs PoWs during during the second the second world world war. Awar. great A greatnumber number of indi- Teresina’s story one evening. Itelections was covering in, what the waselections then, in,Rhodesia what was and then, showed Rhodesia a of individualsviduals have made have madesubstantial substantial gifts and gifts we and are we so are very so gratefulvery grateful to them to themall. We all. also We recordalso record the generos the gener-- Teresina’s storyand showed a close-upclose-up of of one one of of the the candidates, candidates, Ian Ian Smith. Smith. “I know “I know ity of many largeosity andof many smaller large charitable and smaller trusts. charitable These include: trusts. Thesethe Swire include: Charitable the Swire Trust; Charitable the Garfield Trust; theWeston Gar- him,” myI motherhim,” Teresina my mother whispered. Teresina “Who, whispered. Mamma?” “Who, I asked, Mam in- our Foundation;field Weston the Foundation; J Paul Getty the Jnr J Paul Charitable Getty JnrTrust; Charitable the Mercers’ Trust; Company; the Mercers’ the BandCompany; Trust; the the Band Eranda Trust; Foundation; the Eranda dialect, thinking I had misheard. “Him, I met him a long time ago,” she th ma?” I asked, in our dialect, thinking II had misheard. “Him, I met him a long time ago,” she repeated convinc- theFoundation; 29th May the 1961 29 Charitable May 1961 Trust; Charitable the Peter Trust; Stebbings the Peter Memorial Stebbings Trust; Memorial and the Trust; Pears and Foundation. the Pears Foundation. repeated convincingly, and went on to tell her story. . . ingly, and went on to tell her story. . . We apapproachproach possiblepossible benefactors, benefactors, and and thank thank those those who who support support us, us, in in every every possible possible way: way: by by correspondence, correspondence, in in During the second world war, she was a teenager in Italy, living on a farm with her family outside the village of During the second world war, she was a teenager in Italy, living on a farm with her family outside the village of meetings and through our website. But two events of particular significance mustmust bebe mentioned.mentioned. Bardi, in the Apennines. One morning, around 4.30 am., there was a knock on the door. Her father opened it to find Bardi, in the Apennines. One morning, around 4.30 am., there was a knock on the door. Her father opened it to The firstfirst was aa splendidsplendid suppersupper given given on on our our behalf behalf last last October October by byAmbassa- Ambassador and Signora Terracciano at four British servicemen asking for help. They were welcomed indoors and my mother and her sister prepared some We greatly appreciate all dona- thedor Italianand Signora embassy, Terracciano subsidised at theby ItalianSmeg, embassy,the leading subsidised Italian domesticby Smeg, the find four British servicemen asking for help. They were welcomed indoors and my mother and her sister prepared We greatly appreciate all warm milk and bread for them. They slept in the hay loft and stayed with the family for four days and three nights. applianceleading Italian manufacturer. domestic applianceSuch was manufacturer. the occasion’s Such success was thethat occasion’s the tions. Cheques can be sent to: some warm milk and bread for them. They slept in the hay loft and stayed with the family for four days and three donations. Cheques can be sent Every morning, the men climbed to the highest point they could find in the surrounding hills so they could look Ambassadorsuccess that thehas Ambassadorrecently offered has torecently host another offered such to host event another this autumn, such event Justin de Meo, Treasurer, nights. to: Justin de Meo, Treasurer, down the valley to see if the Germans were approaching. Then they were gone. They had said that they thought the atthis which autumn, Frederick at which Forsyth, Frederick the hugely Forsyth, popular the hugely author, popular will tell author,us a story. will tell MSMT, Penruddocke House, Every morning, the men climbed to the highest point they could find in the surrounding hills so they could look MSMT,Baverstock, Penruddocke Salisbury, House, Wilts, Allies would land in Genoa so it was assumed they left to make their way there. Then,us a story. a few weeks ago, Field Marshal The Lord Guthrie gave a magnifi- down the valley to see if the Germans were approaching. Then they were gone. They had said that they thought Baverstock,SP3 5EN, orSalisbury, through Wilts, Justgiving We know that Ian Smith was on the run in Italy, but whether he went past Bardi is uncertain. Perhaps my mother centThen, dinner a few in weeks the Peers’ ago, Dining Field MarshalRoom of The The LordHouse Guthrie of Lords, gave at whicha magnificent the the Allies would land in Genoa so it was assumed they left to make their way there. SP3 at5EN, www.msmtrust.org.uk, or through Justgiving at with was mistaken. If so, then who was the tall, handsome soldier in British uniform she remembered so well? Ambassadordinner in the alsoPeers’ spoke. Dining That Room dinner of wasThe sponsoredHouse of Lords,by Macfarlanes at which theand Am- www.msmtrust.org.uk,an accompanying note with toan us at We know that Ian Smith was on the run in Italy, but whether he went past Bardi is uncertain. Perhaps my mother Maistobassador & also Associates, spoke. That the distinguished dinner was sponsored English and by MacfarlanesItalian law firms, and Maisto and & Gianni Belli [email protected]. note to us at was mistaken. If so, then who was the tall, handsome soldier in British uniform she remembered so well? Associates, the distinguished English and Italian law firms, and was attended was attended by some 70 of their friends. We greatly appreciate the support [email protected]. GianniEditor’s Belli note: Ian Smith, prime minister of Rhodesia from 1964-79, had joined the RAF in 1941 and become a ofby Ambassadorsome 70 of theirand Signorafriends. WeTerracciano, greatly appreciate of Lord and the Ladysupport Guthrie, of Ambassador and We are keen to expand our list pilot officer. In 1943, he suffered facial and other injuries when his Hurricane crashed in Egypt. After returning to We are keen to expand our list of ofand First Signora Secretary Terracciano, Edoardo ofNapoli Lord – andas well, Lady of Guthrie, course, asand the of munificence First Secretary of members’ emails. If you would Editor’shis squadron, note: in Ian Corsica, Smith, his prime aircraft minister was hitof Rhodesiaby flak and from he was1964-79, forced had to balejoined out the in RAFLiguria in 1941behind and enemy become lines. a He members’ emails. If you would ofEdoardo our sponsors. Napoli – as well, of course, as the munificence of our sponsors. like to receive news this way, pilotjoined officer. up with In partisans1943, he sufferedand then, facial with andthree other others, injuries hiked when across his theHurricane maritime crashed Alps inbefore Egypt. being After picked returning up by to the like to receive news this way, and So we are nothing daunted. What greater encouragement can there be than the and we do not have your email hisAmericans. squadron, in Corsica, his aircraft was hit by flak and he was forced to bale out in Liguria behind enemy lines. So we are nothing daunted. What greater encouragement can there be than we do not have your email knowledge that the work of the Trust, our Appeal’s objectives and the funda- address, please inform us at He joined up with partisans and then, with three others, hiked across the maritime Alps before being picked up by the knowledge that the work of the Trust, our Appeal’s objectives and address, please inform us at mental values that we seek to perpetuate resonate with so many people? [email protected] 8 the Americans. the fundamental values that we seek to perpetuate resonate with so many [email protected] people? 8 9 9 for food and worried that the locals who helped them would be exposed. After several months on the move, mainly at OBITUARIESOBITUARIES night, they reached the coast a few miles from the Allied lines only to be betrayed by a priest. They were recaptured and shipped to Germany, not to be released until the end of the war. TheThe Trust Trust is sad is sadto record to record the deaths the of deathsthe following of the supporters following of MSMT supporters and expresses of MSMT deep sympathy and expresses for their Peter had been away from home for eight years – the last four with no communication. He returned to find that his familiesdeep sympathy and friends for their families and friends sister’s wedding had taken place just the week before! He, himself, met and married Pamela Holtom in 1946 and

settled in Newquay, Cornwall, having been made director of a laundry where he always described his occupation , King’s Medal, MajorMajor GeneralGeneral Daniele Daniele “Dany” “Dany” Bucchioni, Bucchioni OBE , OBE, King’s as “taking in other people’s dirty washing”. They had three children, Lizz, Louise and Charles. After Pam’s death (left), who died on 24th June 2013th aged 95, was a partisan leader and a member Medal, (left), who died on 24 June 2013 aged 95, was a partisan leader and a in 1971, he married for a second time, to Paddy Conlon. Peter was an extremely keen supporter of the Monte San of the Special Forces Club. member of the Special Forces Club. Martino Trust and the annual luncheon would not be the same without a strong showing of Sterickers. When Peter Dany,Dany, a young Italian lieutenantlieutenant whenwhen thethe ArmisticeArmistice waswas signedsigned with with Italy Italy in in became too frail to attend himself he would buy tickets for other members of the family to represent him. September 1943, from a Catholic and anti-Fascist family, grabbed the opportu- September 1943, from a Catholic and anti-Fascist family, grabbed the opportunity Peter was always the perfect gentleman, extremely humble and modest, charming, kind and interested in others. His nity to fight against the dictatorship of Benito Mussolini and was soon leading a to fight against the dictatorship of Benito Mussolini and was soon leading a parti- courage and stoicism during the war years stood him in good stead throughout his varied and interesting life, not partisan brigade in the area of La Spezia/northern Tuscany, on the Gothic Line – san brigade in the area of La Spezia/northern Tuscany, on the Gothic Line – the least following the tragic and unexpected death of his son, Charles, earlier in 2013. lastthe majorlast major line lineof Nazi of Nazi defence defence in Italy. in Italy. Louise Bruce HeHe cooperatedcooperated closelyclosely with with the the SOE’s SOE’s Major Major Gordon Gordon Lett, Lett, DSO, DSO, an escapedan escaped pris- onerprisoner of war of warand the and British the British Liaison Liaison Officer Officer in charge in of charge Mission of Blundell Mission Violet Blundell andViolet the and International the International Battalion Battalion of Rossano. of Rossano. Dennis Read, DSM, who died on 25th November aged 96, was the radio operator on HM Submarine Saracen, InIn latelate 1943,1943, DanyDany andand hishis men men secured secured the the boundaries boundaries of of the the Rossano Rossano valley valley so which was sunk by depth charges off Corsica in 1943. He and other survivors were taken to Manziana PoW camp, sosuccessfully successfully that that 33 33men men of SASof SAS Operation Operation Galia, Galia, commanded commanded by Captainby Captain Bob Bob Walker Walker Brown, Brown, landed landed by para- by by Lago di Bracciano. After the Armistice, the crew fled the camp. Separated from his companions, Dennis met a parachutechute to be to greetedbe greeted not notby enemyby enemy fire firebut bybut a bycup a ofcup tea. of tea.From From 1943 1943-45,-45, Dany Dany and andhis menhis menran ranan escapean escape line goatherd called Eugenio Darrida, with whom he spent the next four months. In January 1944, he bade Eugenio lineknown known as “The as “The Railway”, Railway”, sending sending hundreds hundreds of escaping of escaping refugees refugees and andPoWs PoWs through through highly highly patrolled patrolled enemy enemy lines farewell and walked to the Sabine hills. He found refuge with the Barreca family in Selci, before continuing on to linesand theand marble the marble mountains mountains above above Carrara Carrara to Allied to Allied territory. territory. This Thiswas donewas doneeven evenin the in bitterest the bitterest of winter of winter condi- reach the Allied lines in June 1944. He led an army truck back to Selci to liberate the family and stayed on there at conditions,tions, proudly proudly with nowith casualties. no casualties. the request of the Allied military government. Despite the Nazis placing a considerable reward on his head, Dany and his brigade provided support to a number Despite the Nazis placing a considerable reward on his head, Dany and his brigade provided support to a After the war, Dennis left the Navy and served in the Army, before retiring to live in Somerset. In recent years his of SAS operations and fought a guerrilla-like war very successfully against the Nazis and Fascists. On two occa- number of SAS operations and fought a guerrilla-like war very successfully against the Nazis and Fascists. On son, David, has renewed contact with the Barreca family. Dennis never forgot their bravery, and that of Eugenio sions, they defeated SS troops carrying out a rastrellamento, that is, raking through the mountains and valleys two occasions, they defeated SS troops carrying out a rastrellamento, that is, raking through the mountains and Darrida. searching for partisans, escaped prisoners and their civilian helpers. In the final battle for the strategic town of valleys searching for partisans, escaped prisoners and their civilian helpers. In the final battle for the strategic Aulla, Dany and his partisans, in liaison with Captain Freddy Williams of the SOE, fought courageously and Coincidentally, Dennis was on board HMS Saracen when the submarine landed a party of SAS that included Keith town of Aulla, Dany and his partisans, in liaison with Captain Freddy Williams of the SOE, fought courageously achieved a significant victory. Dany was awarded the King’s Medal for his valiant conduct in support of the Killby, MSMT founder, on Sardinia. and achieved a significant victory. Dany was awarded the King’s Medal for his valiant conduct in support of the cause of freedom. cause of freedom. He remained a good friend of the UK throughout his life and, with great pride, received an OBE in 2005. He remained a good friend of the UK throughout his life and, with great pride, received an OBE in 2005. Major Walter James (Jim) Darville, who died in September aged 91, served with the 2nd Battalion The OmarOmar Bucchioni Bedfordshire and Hertfordshire Regiment and was captured at Hunts Gap, Tunisia, in April 1943. Taken to Italy, he escaped in September from Fontanellato PoW camp and endured several months on the run, being befriended by Italian families. Hampered by freezing temperatures, a shortage of food and lack of footwear, he was recaptured. FredFred Crutchett Crutchett, who, whodied diedlast autumn,last autumn, joined joined up as up a Territorialas a Territorial at the at start the ofstart the of war the and war served and served with thewith He spent four months in Oflag V111F and was then incarcerated in Oflag 79 at Brunswick until liberated by the Royalthe Royal Artillery Artillery in the in Eighth the Eighth Army Army in Egypt in Egypt and North and North Africa Africa before before being beingtransferred transferred to the toFar the East. Far East. Americans. FreFredd waswas awarded awarded the the DCM DCM in in1944 1944 for forhis hisactions actions at Runaway at Runaway Hill inHill the in battle the battleof Imphal, of Imphal, one of theone turning of the pointsturning After the war, he resumed his career in printing and continued a long association with the Army by serving as a inpoints the Burma in the campaign.Burma campaign. His citation His reads:citation “His reads: courage, “His courage,calm and calm grasp and of thegrasp situation of the weresituation worthy were of worthythe very of Territorial. He passed away at his house in Moggerhagger, Bedfordshire, where he had lived for 50 years. His wife highestthe very praise… highest By praise… his actions By hishe steadiedactions hethe steadiedinfantry andthe enabledinfantry veryand valuableenabled verycovering valuable fire tocovering be brought fire downto be Barbara predeceased him and he is survived by his daughter Jackie and son Simon. whichbrought undoubtedly down which prevented undoubtedly even preventedheavier casualties.” even heavier casualties.” HeHe servedserved withwith at at least least two two later later prisoners prisoners of of Fontanellato, Fontanellato, Maurice Maurice Goddard Goddard and and Jock Jock Donagher. Donagher. Fred Fred was was nearby near- , who died last September aged 92, was a young lieutenant in the 9th Battalion, Rifle whenby when Donagher Donagher was wascaptured captured in the in Gazalathe Gazala area areain June in June 1942. 1942. Alan Hurst-Brown Fred was a welcome participant in many annual MSMT luncheons and his presence will be greatly missed. Brigade, when he was injured, and captured, at the battle of Mersa Brega in March 1941. Fred was a welcome participant in many annual MSMT luncheons and his presence will be greatly missed. Transported to south Italy, he was first a prisoner of war at Sulmona before being moved to a fortified monastery at Padula in May 1942. After escaping with two other officers through a tunnel in September that year, he was recaptured while trying to steal a boat at Bisceglie, near Bari. He was then taken to the so-called punishment camp Peter Stericker, who died in December aged 96, was educated at Wellington College where he won an Peter Stericker, who died in December aged 96, was educated at Wellington College where he won an at Gavi, north of Genoa. EnglishEnglish SpeakingSpeaking Union Union Scholarship Scholarship in in1935 1935 to studyto study at Philips at Philips Academy, Academy, Boston, Boston, USA. USA.He became He became a stockbroker a stock - At the Armistice in September 1943, he and about 100 companions were crowded into cattle trucks by the Germans inbroker London in London and then and continued then continued this career this in career Calcutta, in Calcutta, aged only aged 20. only 20. for a dreadful rail journey to Germany, during which one of his friends was shot dead. Alan was eventually liberated At the outbreak of war in 1939, the Calcutta Stock Exchange closed and Peter taught in St. Paul’s School, Darjeeling At the outbreak of war in 1939, the Calcutta Stock Exchange closed and Peter taught in St. Paul’s School, from the PoW camp at Brunswick. beforeDarjeeling joining before his father’s joining regiment, his father’s The regiment, Duke of Cornwall’sThe Duke Lightof Cornwall’s Infantry, asLight a signals Infantry, officer as ain signals Lahore. officer In 1941 in theLahore. DCLI In moved 1941 theto Baghdad DCLI moved before to being Baghdad posted before to Egypt being where, posted along to Egypt with where, many othersalong withfrom manythe DCLI, others Peter from After the war he became a stockbroker, eventually becoming senior partner of Rowe & Pitman Hurst-Brown. A keen wasthe DCLI,captured Peter near wasTobruk. captured He was near taken Tobruk. to a PoW He wascamp taken at Rezzanello to a PoW and camp subsequently at Rezzanello to Fontanellato and subsequently in spring to sportsman and passionate fisherman, he and his wife June, who survives him, latterly lived near Winchester. 1943,Fontanellato by then inaged spring 23. In1943, September by then 1943,aged 23.upon In the September capitulation 1943, of uponItaly, thehe and capitulation his friend, of Peter Italy, Watson, he and sethis offfriend, to Alan was always adamant that “he did not really owe anything to the Italians”. However, he supported MSMT be- joinPeter the Watson, Allied linesset off in tothe join south. the DuringAllied lines the exceptionally in the south. harshDuring winter the exceptionally they sheltered harsh in barns winter and they caves, sheltered begged in cause, he said, he approved of its objectives and out of affection for brother officers who were members of the Trust.

1010 11 A marathon effort Miles Skinner has come up with an idea that takes the breath away. He wishes to pay tribute to his grandparents, Stan and Jo Skinner, and do so in a way that will benefit the Monte San Martino Trust, of which they were strong supporters. To achieve this, he intends to run 10 marathons in 10 days and raise £10,000 in sponsorship. Nice round numbers, but easier said than done. Miles is now searching for a route within Italy and working out the logistics, with the aim of running the marathons in 2015. Registered Charity No. 1113897 Stan, who died a few years ago, was captured in north Africa and imprisoned at Sulmona. After the Armistice he escaped and succeeded in rejoining the Allies. Sadly, his close friend, Keep up with MSMT Peter Allcoat, was killed when they were together during bombing at L’Aquila station. Stan news at later met and married his sister – Jo, herself. www.msmtrust.org.uk. Jo, who died in February, was keen for Miles, who is aged 28 and working in Germany, to Contributions and raise money for the Trust. His thoughts turned naturally to marathons: last year he under- enquiries to John took an ultra-marathon (100km) to raise money for a children’s hospice; and he has a best Simkins, newsletter time of 3 hours 6 minutes for a marathon. He plans to have companion runners on at least editor, at part of the route, which is intended to include tracks that prisoners took on their way to [email protected] freedom. It is a very ambitious project but one that Miles is determined to see realised.

DATES FOR THE DIARY Don’t miss a fascinating exhibition of photographs at the Museum of the Order of St John, in St John’s Gate, Clerkenwell, from 21st July to 29 August 2014. Stories of Friendship is presented by Accademia Apulia UK and will feature more than 100 photographs from the Imperial War Museum. The photos were taken by war reporters of the 8th RAF Squadron in Apulia from 1943 to 1945 and focus on encounters between British soldiers and the local people, mostly farmers and artisans. They give the impression of seeing a meet- ing of men who, despite coming from different backgrounds and holding seemingly incompatible roles, show mutual respect. Some of the photos were taken by the journalist Alan Whicker, then a Captain in the Film and Photographic Unit of the British Army. There will also be a section dedicated to Jewish refugees who were taken from concentration camps to recover in Puglia before leaving for Palestine. MSMT supporters are welcome to attend the private view on 24th July, if they email [email protected]. Speak- ers will include: Mark Whitmore, Director of Collections and Research at the Imperial War Museum; David Perryman whose father (from the Sharpshooters Yeomanry) was killed by the Nazis in San Severo; and Giuseppe Clemente, who as a young boy from San Severo witnessed Nazi atrocities, but also the arrival of the 8th Army. Monte San Martino Annual Luncheon will be held on Wednesday 19th November at Royal Overseas League, London. Invitations will be sent out in September. We look forward to seeing as many supporters as possible.

WW2 ESCAPE LINES MEMORIAL SOCIETY 7th December 2014: The Helper Memorial Service at St Clement Danes, London, honouring those who helped organise escape routes in Europe. 23rd–26th April 2015: Annual ELMS meeting at York and Eden Camp. MSMT members are welcome to attend both events and should contact Roger Stanton, ELMS director, on 01423 508667 or at [email protected]

POSTSCRIPT: A supporter has supplied the following story, which he says is true in essence even if the years may have coloured it a bit. It concerns his father’s great friend, a member of the Long Range Desert Group, whose style was to do nothing for four and a half days of their patrol and then stir up a Panzer division before retreating and directing the relieving group to the fighting. The soldier was captured, however, and sent to a PoW camp in Italy. He escaped, made his way to the Alps and found a guide to take him over to Switzerland. The man said the fee was £100 but that, as a PoW, the soldier could pay after the war. The climb was completed successfully. The soldier was determined to pay his debt but, after the war, Brits were only allowed to take £25 abroad per annum. So he went to Italy four times…

Registered address: Flat 7, 18 Lambolle Road, London NW3 4HP MSMT Founder: Cavaliere Ufficiale J. Keith Killby, OBE 12