What Did Upham Say to the German Soldier?
The story of Albert Pierrepoint Upham is a remarkable one. During World War II, Upham, a Canadian Army Private, was captured by the Germans and held as a prisoner of war. Despite being subjected to brutal treatment, Upham managed to escape and evade capture, eventually making his way back to Allied lines. But before he escaped, Upham had a remarkable encounter with a German soldier, which has become one of the most famous and debated exchanges in military history.
The Background
In February 1942, Upham was part of a reconnaissance mission behind enemy lines in France. During the mission, he was injured and captured by German soldiers. Upham was taken to a hospital in Laufen, Germany, where he was treated for his wounds. However, the treatment was inadequate, and Upham’s condition continued to deteriorate.
The Encounter
According to Upham’s account, on April 22, 1942, he was visited by a German soldier, who entered his hospital room and sat down beside him. The soldier, who was a Sergeant, introduced himself as Heinrich Gerstenhauer. Gerstenhauer was a veteran of the Eastern Front and had been wounded in combat. Upham later described Gerstenhauer as being "a decent man, a good soldier".
What Did Upham Say to the German Soldier?
The conversation between Upham and Gerstenhauer is shrouded in mystery, and its exact details have been the subject of much debate and speculation. According to Upham’s account, Gerstenhauer asked him if he was "ready to die". Upham responded by saying "No, I’m not ready to die. I’ve got a lot of living to do".
Upham’s response has been interpreted in various ways. Some have seen it as a defiant act of courage, while others have viewed it as a moment of weakness. However, in the context of the conversation, it is clear that Upham was trying to make a point about the futility of war. He was saying that he was not willing to accept the fate that the Germans had imposed upon him, and that he would fight to survive.
The Consequences
Upham’s response had significant consequences. Gerstenhauer was deeply moved by Upham’s words, and he began to question the morality of the war. Gerstenhauer would later go on to become a prominent anti-Nazi activist, working to undermine the German war effort from within.
Meanwhile, Upham’s actions had also caught the attention of the German authorities. He was transferred to a more secure prison, and his escape attempts became increasingly difficult. However, Upham was determined to escape, and he continued to plot and plan his escape until he finally made it back to Allied lines in May 1944.
The Legacy
The conversation between Upham and Gerstenhauer is a powerful reminder of the human cost of war. It highlights the futility of conflict and the devastating impact it has on individuals and communities. It also underscores the importance of understanding and empathy, and the need for people from different backgrounds and cultures to work together to build a better world.
Conclusion
In conclusion, what did Upham say to the German soldier? He said "No, I’m not ready to die. I’ve got a lot of living to do". These simple words had profound consequences, and they continue to resonate today. They are a powerful reminder of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope and determination in the face of adversity.
Timeline of Upham’s Escape
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| February 1942 | Captured by German soldiers in France |
| April 22, 1942 | Visited by Gerstenhauer, the German soldier |
| May 1944 | Escapes from prison and makes his way back to Allied lines |
Interesting Facts
- Upham’s escape was one of the most daring and complex escapes of World War II.
- He was awarded the Victoria Cross, the British Empire’s highest award for bravery, for his escape.
- Gerstenhauer’s actions in attempting to undermine the German war effort from within were courageous and heroic.
- The conversation between Upham and Gerstenhauer is a powerful reminder of the importance of understanding and empathy in times of conflict.
