Description

Identification note: See Object History File for Hermann Siemonsmeier's Order or Service and various photos of Hermann with his wife, in later years. All contained in the same box, in store. There is also an oral history recording and BBC Radio Wiltshire interview to accompany the objects.

Summary: German Mine-Sweeper, Sub-Chaser and Escort Vessel War Badge (flat pin and maker's marked on the reverse), once belonging to Hermann Siemonsmeier, a German Prisoner of War, imprisoned at Devizes Camp. The cap badge was given to John Dashfield of Swindon, as a 9 year old boy, when he befriended the POW during the War. He met Hermann in Pinehurst when the POW's were transported into Swindon to help build prefabricated houses. Hermann and John kept in touch until Hermann died in April 2020. Hermann Siemonsmeier was an anti-aircraft gunner, captured off the Belgian coast.