Fish Out of Water: Nazi Submariners as Prisoners in North Louisiana During World War II

by Wesley Harris

During World War II, nearly 700 prisoner of war camps were scattered across the U.S. None were more interesting than Camp Ruston, a large complex in north Louisiana. Within its fences were some of the war's most intriguing stories, including that of German U-boat submariners. The capture and concealment of the U-505 crew at Camp Ruston was one of the war's best kept secrets. Other U-boats were represented as well, including the U-234 which was engaged in a mission to take military technology and uranium for atomic bombs to Japan when it surrendered. The relationship between the prisoners and the local community was a stark contrast to the hostility shared by their homelands. This book reveals some of the fascinating aspects of POW life, a largely overlooked facet of war.

81 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2004