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Click here to subscribeA signed black and white photograph of Major Theodor Rumpel, shown under 'House Arrest' awaiting Court Martial as Commandant of Dulag Luft as a result of the first 'Great Escape' led by Buckley (Big X) and Roger Bushell (Little X) during WW2. Major Theodor Rumpel was saved from the Gestapo by his friend Hermann Wilhelm Göring (or Goering) and made Kommandant of a flying school, and was later promoted to Colonel and Rumpel ended up surviving the war.
A signed 2003 first edition hardback of 'Turned Towards the Sun', an insightful autobiography by the distinguished British author and former Colditz POW, Michael Burn. This special edition is inscribed: "To Michael Booker from Michael Micky Burn" and comes with a treasure trove of accompanying items, including a short handwritten poem, a letter addressed to Michael Booker from Michael Russell (the publisher), a photograph taken at the book launch, and the original invitation to the event.In this compelling narrative, Burn reflects on his extraordinary life, sharing his experiences with candid honesty and profound wisdom. ISBN-10: 0859552802
A signed black and white photograph by Major Patrick "Pat" Reid depicted in the photograph alongside David McCallum during the filming of the Colditz BBC TV series dated 1972, the show aired between 1972-74, the picture shows Colditz Castle visible in the background.David McCallum is shown dressed up as Flight Lieutenant Simon Carter from the series.The photograph is also signed on the reverse by Pat Reid alongside a message written where he states the photograph was taken on his first ever return to Colditz since his escape during WW2 where he successfully made it across the border into neutral Switzerland in 1942.
An album containing approximately 125 original black and white production photographs, portraits, and stills from the acclaimed film 'Odette' (1950) directed by Herbert Wilcox and starring Anna Neagle, Trevor Howard, Marius Goring, Bernard Lee, and Peter Ustinov to name a few.The album features a range of captivating scenes and promotional images from the film, as well as strikingly clear headshots of key actors, including Anna Neagle, Trevor Howard, and Peter Ustinov. Notably, the collection includes a signed portrait photograph of both Anna Neagle and Odette Hallowes (née Sansom), the real-life heroine whose incredible story the film portrays. The photograph bears a heartfelt message from Odette that reads, "With best wishes, Odette," offering an extraordinary connection to one of WWII's most celebrated spies.The film Odette is based on the true story of Special Operations Executive (SOE) agent Odette Sansom, who, after being captured by the Germans in 1943, was sentenced to death and imprisoned in Ravensbrück concentration camp. Despite her harrowing ordeal, she survived the war and later testified against her captors at the Hamburg Ravensbrück trials. In 1946, Odette became the first woman to be awarded the George Cross, and the only living woman to ever receive it.This album offers a unique and historically significant glimpse into the making of a cinematic classic war movie that honors the bravery and resilience of an extraordinary woman.
A signed 2003 first edition hardback of 'Turned Towards the Sun', an insightful autobiography by the distinguished British author and former Colditz POW, Michael Burn, and comes with a photograph taken at the book launch.In this compelling narrative, Burn reflects on his extraordinary life, sharing his experiences with candid honesty and profound wisdom. ISBN-10: 0859552802
A multi-signed first edition 2005 hardback copy of 'Collecting Colditz and its Secrets' written and signed by Michael Booker, and former POWs and German guards of Colditz Oflag IVc, including Tex Ash (Stalag Luft III/Colditz), Walter Morison, Kenneth Lockwood, Peter Parker, Brendan Foley (Author with Tex Ash of 'Under the Wire'), Alfred Heinrich (German Guard), Peter Hofmann (German Guard) as well as actors Jack Hedley, who played the Senior British Officer (S.B.O.) Lt. Col. John Preston and Paul Chapman, who played Captain George Brent from the Colditz BBC TV series in 1972-74. The book comes with its original protective sleeve but does not include a case.The book was originally gifted to Robert B. Muckel, who was one of the first four liberators of Colditz Oflag IVc on 15th April 1945. The lot also includes a congratulatory type-written letter from Robert Muckel, dated 18th May 2005 and a selection of five photographs from the book launch at the Imperial War Museum, London.This book is also signed on the 'Foreword' by Michael Burn. ISBN-10: 190494308X
Three signed commemorative first day covers including "25th Anniversary of the Royal Air Force Escaping Society", signed by Wing Commander David Harold Bernard MBE (SOE Lysander Pilot, Shot down and interned at Stalag Luft III), Pilot Officer William "Tex" Ash (repeat escaper, labelled as the model for Virgil Hilts, the lean, leather-jacketed airman played by Steve McQueen in the 1963 film The Great Escape") and multiple signatures including Flight Engineer William Bloxham 138 Squadron (Author of 'The Long Haul'), Alex V. Wood, John K. Barfield, Lady Baeley, Wing Commander W.H. Bernard.
Twelve Commemorative first day covers "Return to Oflag 7c & Colditz Castle", nine of which are signed by various prisoners of war held at Colditz Castle during WW2 including Major Patrick "Pat" Reid (Escaped Colditz), Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (one of the first six British prisoners at Colditz), Lieutenant Peter Allan (famous for "The Mattress" Escape), Flight Lieutenant Walter Morrison, Polish Captain Joseph Tucki, Kapitein Luitenant ter Zee Francis Steinmetz (Dutchman Escaped Colditz), Lieutenant Commander Damiaen J van Doorninck (Dutchman Escaped Colditz), Private Solly Goldman, Midshipman John Powell Davies, Captain Tommy Catlow, Lieutenant Colonel James Yule, Flight Lieutenant L Butcher, Pilot Officer Jack Best (headed the "Colditz Cock" glider project), Hauptmann Reinhold Eggers (Colditz Security Officer) and Robert Muckel, Alan Murphey (USA Liberators). There a also three blank covers included in this lot.
A collection of three letters written by Sergeant George Franklin Booth (561012) of 107 Squadron, who flew the Blenheim IV N6240, to his Mother Mrs B. A. Booth from various locations including potentially one of the first letters home from a British airman during WW2 informing her that he is safe and sound in early September 1939 (exact date unknown).The second letter is written from the same location as the first in Wesermunde, Lehe (Bremerhaven), while the third letter is written from the transit camp Dulag Luft, which was for R.A.F. personnel situated in Oberursel (28th December 1940). The third letter hopes his wife is keeping well and that he is thinking of what books he wishes her to send him in captivity.This lot also comes with a typed piece of text explaining about Dulag Luft.Sergeant Booth was shot down on just the second day of the war, on 4th September 1939 in Wilhelmshaven harbour, killing the Pilot, Sgt Albert S. Prince. Booth along with the Blenheim Gunner AC1 Laurence J. Slattery (548555) were taken prisoners of war and are arguably among the first two British airmen to be taken POWs in WW2.
A rare commemorative first day cover (50 of 100) of "British Film Year 1985" signed by Dame Anna Neagle, the actor who played Odette in the 1950 British war film based on the true story of Special Operations Executive French agent, Odette Sansom, living in England, who was captured by the Germans in 1943, condemned to death and sent to Ravensbrück concentration camp to be executed.
A multi-signed first edition 2005 hardback copy of 'Collecting Colditz and its Secrets' written and signed by Michael Booker, signed by both Booker and former POWs and German guards of Colditz Oflag IVc, including Paul Chapman, Kenneth Lee, Peter Parker, Alfred Heinrich (German Prominentee Guard), Walter Morrison, Peter Hoffman (German Guard) and Jack Hedley, the actor who played the Senior British Officer (S.B.O.) Lt. Col. John Preston from the Colditz BBC TV series in 1972-74. The book comes with its original protective sleeve and special 'Military Gallery Special Authors Edition' case, further preserving its excellent condition and historical value.The book was originally gifted to Robert B. Muckel, who was one of the first four liberators of Colditz Oflag IVc on 15th April 1945. The lot also includes a congratulatory type-written letter from Robert Muckel, dated 18th May 2005 and a selection of five photographs from the book launch at the Imperial War Museum, London. This 'Military Gallery Special Authors Edition' is also signed on the 'Foreword' by Michael Burn, with a hand-written message dedicated to Michael Booker. ISBN-10: 190494308X
A rare signed 1984 first edition hardback of 'Colditz: The full story' written by Major Pat Reid, one of the few British officers to successfully escape from the infamous Colditz Castle, Oflag IVc, making his daring 'home run' to neutral Switzerland. The book retains its original protective sleeve, preserving its exceptional condition and historical significance.Inscribed by Major Reid, the message reads: "To Michael, with much appreciation for your help. From Pat, 1st Nov 1984." This personal dedication adds a special touch to an already remarkable piece of World War II history.Reid’s detailed narrative of Colditz, combined with the personal inscription, offers a rare opportunity to own a piece of the Colditz story from one of its most famous escapees. ISBN-10: 0333342690
A WW2 69th Infantry Division shoulder patch presented to Michael Booker by P.F.C. Alan H. Murphey, one of the four Americans who were the first to enter and liberate Colditz Castle (Oflag IVc) on 16th April 1945.Accompanying this patch is a photograph capturing the moment of liberation, featuring all four P.F.C.s on the terrace of Colditz Castle. The individuals in the photograph, from left to right, are P.F.C. Burrows, P.F.C. Murphey, P.F.C. Giegnas, and P.F.C. Miller, all of whom were awarded the Silver Star for their bravery in liberating Schloss Colditz Oflag IVc.Notably, P.F.C. Alan H. Murphey received the formal surrender from German Hauptmann Reinhold Eggers in the castle's courtyard, marking a significant moment in history. This lot also includes a picture of P.F.C. Alan H. Murphey (on the left) taken in Altenhain in April 1945.
Signed and sealed envelope by Odette Hallowes (Odette Sansom during WW2) to Michael Booker and two commemorative first day covers and stamps "Britons of Distinction" unsigned.Odette Hallowes, also known as Odette Churchill and Odette Sansom, code named 'Lise', was an SOE agent who operated in France during WW2. She was captured on 6 April 1943 by spy-hunter Hugo Bleicher and spent the remainder of the war imprisoned in Ravensbrück Concentration Camp.She was the first woman to be awarded the George Cross by the UK and was awarded the Légion d'honneur by France.
Twelve mixed commemorative first day covers and postcards of Colditz Oflag IVc, some celebrating the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the castle including a nice "Liberation Colditz" hand drawn letter with suggested first day cover/stamp design and postcard from Lieutenant Colonel Lee Shaugnessy (USA 273rd Infantry Div).This lot also features the signature of Lt-Col Sir Martin Gilliat on a limited edition silk first day cover of the "90th Birthday of Her Majesty the Queen Mother" who was the private secretary to Queen Elizabeth the Queen Mother between 1956-1993.
A collection of postcards and personal letters and correspondence to Michael Booker from various senders including Captain Tommy Catlow, Major General Corran Purdon C.B.E., M.C., C.P.M., Judy Miller and Jimmy James to name a few. This lot also includes "Fighting 69th Infantry Division" membership card for 2005 and a first day cover for "Britain Alone".
Two commemorative first day covers of "Retour en France", signed by Marie-Madeleine Fourcade (1909–1989) who was the leader of the French Resistance network "Alliance" in occupied france during WW2 who operated under the code name "Hérisson" ("Hedgehog").Both first day covers include an additional indistinct signature (please see images for close ups).
Eleven mixed commemorative envelopes relating to Colditz Oflag IVc, signed by various prisoners of war held at Colditz Castle during WW2 including Lieutenant Peter Allan (famous for "The Mattress" Escape), Captain Tommy Catlow, Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (One of the first British prisoners at Colditz) and also including Colditz society members Michael Booker, Dave Windle, Adrian Simmonds, Patrick Gale.This lot also includes one photograph of each of the represented Allied Nations Colditz Senior Officers including Admiral Józef Unrug (Senior Polish Navy officer), General Le Bleu (Senior French Army officer), Major E. Engles (Senior Dutch Army officer) and additional members (written on back but ineligible).
Two genuine First World War (WW1) medals awarded to Private F. J. Dickman, Royal Fusiliers (also known as the City of London Regiment) which include the 1914-1915 Star, the British War Medal, both with original ribbons and the Western Front casualty Victory Medal ribbon (no medal included). These are on a mounting pin for a blazer.
An original 'Personal Card' file from Oflag VIII-F (Eventually became Oflag VIII-B) relating to First Lieutenant Arthur Ryves (Prisoner No. 1197) who was a British POW and captured on 7th November 1943 during WW2.The file contains his original capture photograph as well as one which was part of an RAF document (appears dated 1942), the document also includes his fingerprint, his fathers name John Langfield and his mothers name E Thompson as well as information on his captured health condition labelled as "Healthy". This also comes with original black and white pictures of his time in the Royal Air Force (RAF) in England, with pictures of his fellow officers and one including where he met King George VI. This lot also includes some original wartime postcards of Lamsdorf and Gleiwitz.A 'Personal Card' file from Oflag VIII-F, which later became Oflag VIII-B, documenting the profile and internment of First Lieutenant Arthur Ryves (Prisoner No. 1197), a British POW, who was captured on 7th November 1943 during WW2. The file includes his original capture photograph, along with another photograph dated 1942 from an RAF document. It also contains his fingerprint, his father’s name, John Langfield, and his mother’s name, E. Thompson, as well as his health condition at the time of capture, marked as "Healthy."This remarkable lot also features original black-and-white photographs from Ryves' time serving in the Royal Air Force (RAF) in England, showcasing his fellow officers and including one special image of Ryves meeting King George VI during a visit. Additionally, the collection includes original wartime postcards from Lamsdorf and Gleiwitz, providing a unique and personal glimpse into Ryves' time as a POW and his military service. A valuable and evocative collection of wartime memorabilia, offering deep insight into the experiences of a British officer during WWII.
A collection of original photographs taken from Stalag 3a Luchenwalde Camp during WW2 which housed Polish, Dutch, Belgian, French, Yugoslav, Russian, Italian, American, Romanian, British and other Allied POWs. The photographs depict general views of the camp barrack blocks and tents inside and out, Allied POWs including British and American, Russian and Polish POWs, the arrival of the first Americans at the camp, the church constructed by Russian POWs, the nearby cemetery, and also includes a rather interesting selection of pictures of a boxing match, sports activities and camp theatre shows. It is estimated that 4,000 to 5,000 prisoners died while in Stalag 3a Luchenwalde Camp. During the winter of 1941/42 a typhus epidemic killed around 2,000-2,500 Russians, and mortality rates of Soviet prisoners was extremely high compared to the POW of other nations. Non-Soviet prisoners were buried with military honours in individual graves at the camp cemetery, while the Russian dead were buried anonymously in mass graves.
A signed first edition paperback of 'Out on a Limb', a captivating poetry collection by the esteemed British author and former Colditz POW, Michael Burn. This unique copy features a heartfelt inscription: "Michael Booker from Michael Burn, with thanks equal to apologies for my delay, February 2009." ISBN-10: 0701119926.
A commemorative first day cover from 1st January 1942 showing how the Bolsheviks and Free Masons were part of the 'International Conspiracy' acording to the Nazis.An exibition was opened in Chemnitz on 17th September 1938 where this cachet first day cover shows tablets written in Hebrew to show the connection between Jews, Bolsheviks and Free Masons and was issued in Belgrade to mark a major anti-masonic exposition.
Ten mixed post-war commemorative postcards of Colditz Oflag IVc from Michael Booker and Phillip Croucher, signed by Captain Tommy Catlow, Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (One of the first British prisoners at Colditz), Polish Captain Joseph Tucki, Lieutenant Pat Fergusson and Dutch Colditz Officer Jack Hagaman.
A framed watercolour and ink of "Like a Bad Hotel: Life in Colditz" by Andy Russell (2012), a portrait of Micky Burn Mission Accomplished.Captain Micky Burn of number 6 Troop, No. 2 Commando, took part in Operation Chariot, the St. Nazaire Raid. His own 6 Troop contributing 29 men to the overall total of 264 Army personnel taking part. As leader of the starboard column of troop carried in several Motor Launches (MLs), Burn's ML192 was one of the first vessels to come under fire, crashing ablaze into the Old Mole. Of his 6 Troop contingent, 14 men were killed. The rest, many of whom were forced to take to the water, were captured early on.Having been hauled ashore by one of his men, and despite being wounded several times, Burn was able to make his way to his target, the only member of his team to do so. Burn later attempted to escape the tightening German cordon along with two of his men, one of whom was killed. Burn, along with his remaining companion, was captured and entered a lengthy period of confinement as a "guest of the Reich" at Colditz Oflag IVc.For his actions during the raid, Burn received the award of the Military Cross.
A rare multi-signed first edition 1986 hardback edition of 'Tunnelling into Colditz: A mining engineer in captivity', a memoir written by Jim Rogers. This book provides a unique account of his experiences as a POW during World War II. The book comes with its original protective sleeve, further preserving its excellent condition and historical value.What truly sets this copy apart is the remarkable collection of signatures from nineteen distinguished former Colditz POWs, including Jack Best, Gris Davies-Scourfield, Mike Moran, Peter Allan, Pat Reid, Peter Storie-Pugh, Dick Lorraine, Kenneth Lockwood, Dusty Miller, Archie Noul, Hugh Bruce, Jimmy Yule, Dain Worall, and more. Additionally, the author Jim Rogers has personally inscribed the book with the message: "To Michael Booker, from Jim Rogers."Accompanying this extraordinary lot are two photographs of the book being signed by Jim Rogers, Mike Moran, and Dain Worall. ISBN-10: 0709028040
Two mixed commemorative postcards and one sealed letter bearing the signatures and written by Major Patrick "Pat" Reid post-war. There are other signatures on the postcards including Lieutenant Peter Allan (famous for "The Mattress" Escape), Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (one of the first six British prisoners at Colditz), Brigadier Jock Hamilton-Baillie (one of the only two men who escaped from both Spangenberg and Colditz prison camps during WW2), and Pilot Officer Jack Best (headed the "Colditz Cock" glider project).The still sealed letter from Major Patrick "Pat" Reid written to Michael Booker includes a hand-drawn image of Colditz Castle titled "An Epic of Escape".
A momento made by Michael Booker for Major Patrick "Pat" Reid after his appearance on the Thames Television series 'This Is Your Life' hosted by Eamon Andrews which aired on Wednesday 21st February 1973.There are letters from 'Thames Television' from Sarah Dickinson thanking him for lending photographs which had been sent by Michael Booker for the show. Some of these photographs were signed including the group shot of "The Laufen Six" inside Colditz Oflag IVc with signatures including Captain Rupert Barry (one of the longest serving POWs at Colditz), Major Patrick "Pat" Reid, Captain Richard "Dick" Howe (Escape Officer 1942-45), Lieutenant Peter Allan (famous for "The Mattress" Escape) and Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (one of the first six British prisoners at Colditz).There is also a signed black and white photograph by Edward Hardwicke, the actor who played Major Pat Reid as Major Pat Grant in the Colditz BBC TV series between 1972-74.
Eleven commemorative first day covers "Colditz Reunion", eight of which are signed by various prisoners of war held at Colditz Castle (Oflag IVC) during WW2 including Michael Booker, Major Patrick "Pat" Reid (Escaped Colditz), Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader, Lieutenant Colonel Airey Neave (First Brit to escape Oflag IVC Colditz), Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (One of the first British prisoners at Colditz), RNVR Officer Michael "Micky" Wynn, Captain J.L.R. Huelin, Lieutenant Peter Allan (famous for "The Mattress" Escape), Flight Lieutenant Ivor Peter Tonder (Czech), Petr Uruba, Lieutenant Roger Madin (Tunnel Engineer), Lieutenant B Cazaumayou, Squadron Leader Peter Tunstall (Record for longest time in solitary confinement), Brigadier Edward Grismond Beaumont "Gris" Davies-Scourfield, Captain Richard "Dick" Howe (Escape Officer 1942-45).There are also three blank covers included in this lot. as well as four cards from the BBC Colditz TV series (1972).
Ten mixed WW2 commemorative first day covers of Colditz Oflag IVc, Commando Association Day 1971, St Nazaire Raid "Operation Charriot" signed by Captain Micky Burn, 40th Anniversary of VE Day with varying signatures including Paymaster Lieutenant James Mike Moran RN, and The Caterpillar Club signed by Pilot Officer Howard "Hank" Wardle (one of the only two men who escaped from both Spangenberg and Colditz in WW2), and signature of Michael Booker on "Colditz Society" first day cover.
A collection of signatures by Colditz POW veterans and associated photographs from 1994-2005 as part of 'The Colditz Society' meetings, with details of various guest speakers and the topics covered. Some of the signatures included are Huge G. Bruce, Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (one of the first six British prisoners at Colditz), Flight Lieutenant Dominic Bruce, Lieutenant Colonel James "Jimmy" Yule, Captain Tommy Catlow, Brigadier Hugo Craster Wakeford Ironside OBE, Pilot Officer Jack Best (headed the "Colditz Cock" glider project), Lieutenant Peter Allan (famous for "The Mattress" Escape), Polish Captain Joseph Tucki, Kapitein Luitenant ter Zee Francis Steinmetz (Dutch Officer), Lieutenant Pat Fergusson, Lieutenant Kenneth Lee, Flight Lieutenant Walter Morison, Major Skelly Ginn, Captain Micky Burn (St Nazaire Raid), French officer Jean-Claude Tine, Alan Robertson Campbell, Baron Campbell of Alloway ERD QC, Officer Michael Charles Alexander, Royal Navy sailor John ‘Bosun’ Chrisp MBE RN, Major-General Corran William Brooke Purdon CBE MC CPM (Commando at St Nazaire/Colditz POW), and Major Peter Parker to name a few.
A signed first edition hardback of 'Childhood at Oriol', an evocative and autobiographical novel by acclaimed British author and former Colditz POW, Michael Burn. The story follows the lives of an English brother and sister growing up in a picturesque holiday colony in France, richly capturing the essence of their experiences. This fictional setting, Oriol, is based on the real-life Le Touquet Paris-Plage, a prestigious resort founded by Burn’s grandfather. A rare and collectible piece, this hardback edition offers a unique insight into both the author’s personal history and the golden era of French resort life.
Five commemorative first day covers "Colditz 1945-1990", all of which are signed by various prisoners of war held at Colditz Castle (Oflag IVc) during WW2 including Major Patrick "Pat" Reid, Colonel Peter Storie-Pugh, Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (one of the first six British prisoners at Colditz), Lieutenant T Elliott, Lieutenant Pat Fergusson and Captain T Beet.Other first day covers in this lot are signed by other POW's.
Two commemorative first day covers of "Liberation of Brussels", one "40th Anniversary of VE Day", two of which are signed by Dr. Albert-Marie Edmond Guérisse (Alias Patrick Albert "Pat" O'Leary) who was a Belgian Resistance member and organised French and Belgian escape routes for downed Allied pilots during WW2. His escape line was dubbed the Pat O'Leary Line.This lot also includes one "40th Anniversary of the Self-Liberation of Buchenwald" (indistinctly signed).
An original forged escape identity document belonging to Captain Rupert Barry (one of the longest serving POWs at Colditz) trying to pass himself off as a Belgian agricultural worker under the false name of Albert Van Der Meulen.This would have been made in secret at Colditz Oflag IVc during WW2 and used in an escape attempt to evade capture from the Germans. Forged documents would take many weeks to complete and this is in remarkable condition considering its age.Captain Rupert Barry (later Sir Rupert Barry) was at the heart of escaping activity at Colditz and was one of the "Laufen Six" along with Captain Harry Elliot, Major Patrick "Pat" Reid, Captain Richard "Dick" Howe (Escape Officer 1942-45), Lieutenant Peter Allan (famous for "The Mattress" Escape), and Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (one of the first six British prisoners at Colditz).He had made a homemade receiver at Colditz and applied his radio skills, as before the war he had run his own radio company. Whilst at Colditz he invented ingenious means of using encrypted codes hidden in letters from POWs to genuine and ficticious family.
Six commemorative first day cover envelopes of "Bylismy Stalag Luft III" (The Great Escape), one of which is signed by Flight Lieutenant Eric Williams (Writer of The Wooden Horse), Ley Kenyon (Forger of The Great Escape), Group Captain Harry "Wings" Day (Together with Roger Bushell, he planned and organised the "Great Escape"), Flight Lieutenant Oliver Philpot (The Wooden Horse Escapee 1/3), Lieutenant Colonel Jack "Mad Jack" Churchill (fought in the Second World War with a longbow, a basket-hilted Scottish broadsword, and a set of bagpipes). Other first day covers signed by D.J. James, Sergeant Per Bergsland (one of only three men to escape to freedom in the "Great Escape"), Flight Lieutenant Francis "Errol" Flinn (feigned madness as was repatriated), Pilot Officer William "Tex" Ash (repeat escaper, labelled as the model for Virgil Hilts, the lean, leather-jacketed airman played by Steve McQueen in the 1963 film The Great Escape").
An original signed photograph of Lieutenant Pierre Mairesse-Lebrun in 1940 when an International Polo player and showjumper. He escaped Colditz Oflag IVc on 2nd July 1941 after a walk in the excercise park where all POWs gathered to be counted and be escorted back to the main castle. The Germans had left the back fences unguarded, and Mairesse-Lebrun and Lieutenant Pierre Odry used this opportunity to leave the group, and together ran to the fence at the backside of the park. Odry catapulted Mairesse Lebrun over the fence where he ran away. The German guards were initially stunned and did nothing at first. Eventually they started shooting at Mairesse-Lebrun without success. Still in his sports clothes, Lebrun hid in a field and via Switzerland reached Vichy France.
A signed black and white portrait postcard bearing the original wartime signature in black ink of Hermann Wilhelm Göring (1893-1946), a prominent German politician, military leader, and convicted war criminal.As Commander-in-Chief of the Luftwaffe, Göring personally signed this postcard and presented it to Sergeant George Franklin Booth (561012) of 107 Squadron. Booth was one of, if not the first, British airmen shot down in World War II on 4th September 1939, while recovering from a broken leg at the Wilhelmshaven Naval Hospital. This postcard later found its way to Michael Booker, who received it during a post-war visit to Booth's home in England.Measuring approximately 14.2 cm (h) x 9 cm (w), the postcard is in very good condition, with Göring's signature measuring approximately 4.5 cm (h) x 4 cm (w). The postcard is part of batch number 482 from Emil Köhn, Kunstverlag, Munich.This unique historical artifact offers a fascinating glimpse into the early days of the war and the interactions between key figures of that tumultuous time.
Two commemorative first day cover envelopes of "Stalag Luft III", two signed by Squadron Leader Bertram Arthur James MC (a British survivor of The Great Escape) and one signed by Flight Lieutenant Ivo Peter Tonder (Recaptured from the Great Escape, not shot), and two other Stalag Luft III related envelopes.
A multiple signed limited edition (75 of 76) framed print reproduced from an original drawing of 'Colditz - Under New Management' by the renowned artist Nicolas Trudgian, with acompanying COA. This unique piece features a fragment of wooden floorboard sourced directly from the third gatehouse at Colditz, which once covered the floor of the guard's room in front of the solitary confinement cell, adding a remarkable historical connection to the artwork.Accompanying this stunning print is an official first limited edition 2005 copy of 'Collecting Colditz and its Secrets' by Michael Booker, signed by both Booker and notable figures Joan Bader (wife of Douglas Bader) and Peter Hoffman (a Colditz guard). This special edition has been stamped with the original Colditz Oflag IVc censor stamp, used for incoming and outgoing mail during World War II, and includes a certificate of authenticity from Schloss Colditz curator Renate Lippman.The inscription by Joan Bader reads: "To Michael Booker, with all best wishes, nice to meet you? Good luck, Joan Bader." This package also includes a photograph of Michael Booker with Joan Bader, alongside a short passage where Michael recounts their meeting, humorously mentioning he is holding Joan Bader's whisky in the image. ISBN-10: 190494308X
The original registration photograph of Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader from Oflag X-C, with a notable paper clip rust mark on the rear. This lot also comes with a black and white picture of his artificial legs dropped by parachute.Bader, a legendary figure in aviation history, lost both of his legs in a flying accident prior to World War II. Despite this significant challenge, he went on to become a highly skilled pilot, demonstrating extraordinary determination and resilience. His artificial legs were specifically designed to allow him to continue flying.Also included in this collection is a rare commemorative first-day cover celebrating the 25th anniversary of the Battle of Britain dated 1965, which is signed by Group Captain Sir Douglas Bader himself. Bader's impressive accolades include CBE, DSO & Bar, DFC & Bar, DL, FRAeS.
Twelve commemorative first day covers "40th Anniversary, Liberation of Colditz", all signed by various prisoners of war held at Colditz Castle (Oflag IVc) during WW2 including Alan Murphey and Robert Miller (USA Army Liberators), Major Patrick "Pat" Reid, Petty Officer John Wilkens, M.O. Birendra Mazumdar (Only Indian POW at Oflag IVc), Lieutenant Colonel James Yule, Lieutenant T Elliott, Lieutenant Pat Fergusson, and Captain T Beet, in addition to other POW's on the remaining first day covers.
A commemorative first day cover of "Bylismy W Stalag Luft III" commemorating "The Great Escape" of 24th March 1943 during WW2. This is signed by surviving members of the "tunnel" including Gordon Woodruge, Johnny Smith, John Barlow, John Willis, Colin Hodgkinson, Frank Hunt, Carlton Younger, Ley Kenyon and Dixie Deans.
A rare signed first edition hardback of 'Odette, The Story of a British Agent' written by Jerrard Tickell, a classic of the Special Operations Executive (SOE) literature. This compelling biography tells the incredible story of Odette Hallowes (née Sansom), one of the most renowned SOE agents of World War II. Operating under the code name "Lise," she was parachuted into occupied France, where she was eventually captured, imprisoned, and subjected to torture at Fresnes and later at Ravensbrück. As one of the few FANY agents to survive the war, she was awarded the George Cross for her gallantry and went on to marry fellow SOE agent Captain Peter Churchill, known by his code name "Raoul."This special edition is inscribed with a warm message: "To M.J. Booker, with best wishes, Odette."Additionally, this lot includes a letter from G. M. Hallowes to Michael Booker, dated July 1981, along with a complimentary slip.A remarkable addition for collectors and history enthusiasts, this book not only highlights the bravery and resilience of Odette Hallowes but also serves as a testament to the extraordinary contributions of SOE agents during the war.
Twenty Four commemorative first day covers "Return to Colditz Oflag IVc", twenty two are signed by various prisoners of war held at Colditz Castle (Oflag IVc) during WW2 including German guards Heinrich, Schneider and Peter Hoffman, Lieutenant Fredo "Scarface" Guigues (Frenchman), Lieutenant Colonel Airey Neave (first Brit to escape Oflag IVc Colditz), Lieutenant Colonel Lee Shaugnessy (USA 273rd Infantry Div), Major Patrick "Pat" Reid, Midshipman John Powell Davies, Captain Tommy Catlow, Lieutenant Colonel James Yule, Pilot Officer Jack Best (headed the "Colditz Cock" glider project), Captain Kenneth Lockwood MBE (One of the first British prisoners at Colditz), GWA Courtice and Flight Lieutenant Dominic Bruce to name a few.There are two blank first day covers.
A commemorative first day cover envelope of "Bylismy Stalag Luft III" (The Great Escape), which is signed by Captain Harry "Wings" Day (Together with Roger Bushell, he planned and organised the "Great Escape"), Lieutenant Oliver Philpot (The Wooden Horse Escapee 1/3). The cover is dated 20th July 1973 and dedicated to the 40th anniversary of 'The Great Escape'.
A commemorative first day cover (105/195) "Gedenkstatte Und Museum Sachsemhausen", signed by Squadron Leader Bertram Arthur James M.C. who was one of a handful sent to the Sachsenhausen concentration camp after 'The Great Escape' from Stalag Luft III in March 1944.Squadron Leader James eventually escaped from Sachsenhausen, accompanied by Jack Churchill, Harry Day, Johnnie Dodge and Sydney Dowse using small cutlery knives to dig an escape tunnel over 110 metres long. On the run for several weeks, he was finally arrested in Pomerania before being transferred back to solitary confinement in Sachsenhausen.
A mixed lot containing a document type-written by Lieutenant Colonel Airey Neave DSO, OBE, MC, TD, addressed to Frau Prawitt, the widow of Colonel Gerhard Friedrich Prawitt who was Commandant of Colditz between 13th February 1943 to 16th April 1945. Airey Neave was the first Brit to escape Oflag IVc Colditz during WW2 and who went on to be the Secretary for Margaret Thatcher before being critically wounded on 30 March 1979 when a car bomb fitted with a tilt-switch exploded under his Vauxhall Cavalier as he drove out of the Palace of Westminster car park. He lost both legs in the explosion and died of his wounds at Westminster Hospital an hour after being rescued from the wrecked car. He died age 63. This lot also includes a signed photograph of former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher and another which is just a printed signature, as well as stamps and a first day cover. Finally, this lot also includes an address given at a memorial by Lord Freyberg VC, GCMG, KCB, KBE, DSO & Three Bars, for Major John Bigelow Dodge DSO DSC MC (known as "the Artful Dodger"). Major Dodge was held POW as Stalag Luft III and was one of the 17 escapers in an attempt in 1941 alongside Harry "Wings" Day and Squadron Leader Roger Joyce Bushell Dodge, and his travelling companion, were recaptured two days after their escape, found walking along the autobahn a few miles south of Frankfurt. He was given a short period in solitary confinement before being transferred to Stalag Luft I at Barth, with all the other recaptured escapers.
A fantastic collection of lettersheets, postcards, original photographs and envelopes from a variety of Colditz prisoners of war including Captain Julius Morris Green, TD of the Army Dental Corps (MI9 Spy in Colditz Oflag IVc), Squadron Leader Charles Edward Stuart "Lucky" Lockett, Captain Micky Burn (St Nazaire Raid), Captain Kenneth Lockwood (first escape attempt of WW2 along with Pat Reid), Lieutenant Colonel David Stayner (Later SBO in Colditz), Polish Officer Lieutenant Adamowicz (first prisoner at Colditz Oflag IVC) including various other British and British Commonwealth POW'S as well as other postcards and lettersheets written by officers from the different nationalities at Colditz including Polish, French, Belgian and Dutch prisoners of war. Squadron Leader "Lucky" Lockett was part of the team who built the "Colditz Cock", the glider which was built in the attic and was planned as an escape attempt.
A rare, signed first edition hardback of 'The Midnight Diary', written by the renowned British author and former Colditz POW, Michael Burn. This personal copy is uniquely inscribed, reading: "To dear Mummy and Daddy, with love from the author, Llanfrothen, Oct 6, 1952." A touching and intimate dedication, this hardback is not only a collector’s gem but also a poignant memento of Burn’s remarkable life and literary legacy.
Nine mixed commemorative first day covers of Colditz Oflag IVc and others signed by various prisoners of war during WW2 including Major-General Corran William Brooke Purdon CBE MC CPM (Commando at St Nazaire/Colditz POW), Brigadier Edward Grismond Beaumont "Gris" Davies-Scourfield, Flight Lieutenant Walter Morrison, Pilot Officer Jack Best (headed the "Colditz Cock" glider project), Flight Lieutenant L J E Goldfinch, Colonel Willy Tod (S.B.O.), Major General William Broomhall (S.B.O.), Lieutenant Colonel Guy German (S.B.O.), Colonel David Stayner (S.B.O.), Flight Lieutenant Walter Morrison, Captain Micky Burn (St Nazaire Raid).
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