Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Driver

Awarded on:

December 19th, 1946

Recommendation:
" Battye was captured in Boulogne on 23 May 1940 and imprisoned in Stalag IXC (Thuringen), Germany. He made 7 attempts to escape, and was meticulous in his planning.
He made his first attempt in 1942 from a working camp, after making keys for 3 doors, and jumped a train to Mannheim. He was recaptured, and 5 months later he escaped whilst in transit to Niedorshel. Although well guarded, he managed to get through a window at night with 10 others and jumped while the train was in motion. He was recaptured after 3 days freedom.
In November 1942, after very careful planning, he escaped again. He and his friend cut their way through the perimeter wire and tramped to Linefeld. They made their way by train to Dalheim and were eventually caught trying to cross the Dutch frontier after 4 day's freedom.
Battye was free for one day on his fourth attempt and was sent to Molsdorf to await trial. A few days later he escaped by tunnel with 52 others and was free for 3 days. He was given nine months hard labour.
After three attempts, he finally got away from Mensengrahen salt mine, and had four day's freedom.
He finally escaped whilst on the march in April 1945 and reached the American lines."

LG 37822/6163.