What’s interesting when it comes to history in Georgia is that just when you think you know it all, something else pops up. That’s how we felt when we found out about the various German POW camps that used to pepper the state back in World War II. During the war, Georgia military camps and air force bases were all used as internment camps for enemies taken as prisoners. One of those military camps was Fort Benning, a U.S. Army post which is right near the Alabama-Georgia border. Learn all about the history behind this old POW camp in Georgia.
During World War II, German prisoners of war were interned by Georgia throughout various camps—which included Fort Oglethorpe, Fort Gordon, Camp Stewart, Camp Wheeler, and Fort Benning.
Georgia Encylopedia
Fort Benning, which was initially named Camp Benning, was named after the Confederate General Henry L. Benning when it was established in 1909.
Wikipedia
During WWII, however, Fort Benning housed thousands of prisoners of war, as the larger camps sometimes held between 2,000 and 4,000 prisoners.
Georgia Encylopedia
According to the rules established during the Geneva Convention, German POWs were treated similarly to other military personnel at the fort, supplied with enough food, proper sleeping arrangements, and even medical care.
Wikipedia
While in the camp, German POWs were allowed canteen privileges and would need to maintain their own camps which included painting, mowing the grass, washing vehicles, and other tasks.
Georgia Encylopedia
Fort Benning became quite significant after the U.S. got involved in World War II, not only for their POW camp but also because of the trained military that came out of these camps.
Wikipedia
When the war was coming to an end in 1944, a re-education program was implemented for the POWs with some prisoners even receiving lessons in English, government, and American history.
Georgia Encylopedia
Yet, at the end of the war, the POWs were sent home to their respective countries, and today, Fort Benning still remains a coveted military post in the United States.
Flickr Wayne Hsieh
Did you know about the fascinating history behind this old POW camp in Georgia? Share with us your thoughts in the comments section! Or if you have any other interesting historical tidbits involving Georgia, make sure to let us know.
Georgia Encylopedia
Wikipedia
Flickr Wayne Hsieh
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Address: Fort Benning, GA 31905, USA
