Stalag Luft III

Stalag Luft III was a German prisoner-of-war camp established in 1942 near Żagań, intended for Allied airmen. Its location in a sparsely populated region, far from neutral territories, was designed to discourage escape attempts. The camp was surrounded by a double barbed-wire fence and other mechanisms aimed at preventing tunnel construction, which contributed to it housing prisoners who had previously attempted escapes—around 10,000 individuals, including approximately 100 Poles. The camp’s main claim to fame is the renowned "Great Escape" of 1944, which marked the culmination of organized efforts to break free. The plan, devised by Roger Bushell, involved around 600 prisoners. The escape strategy involved digging three tunnels, named "Tom," "Dick," and "Harry," of which only "Harry" ultimately succeeded. Tunnel construction was extremely complex and required smuggling tools and documents, facilitated by a sophisticated intelligence network within the camp. On the night of March 24–25, 1944, 76 prisoners escaped, but only three managed to reach freedom. Following the escape, on Hitler’s orders, a brutal execution of the recaptured prisoners took place, though the number was limited to fifty after Göring’s intervention. Facing the advance of the Red Army in January 1945, the camp was evacuated, and the prisoners were transported to other stalags. Stalag Luft III also gained significant popularity in mass culture, inspiring literature and films, including the iconic 1963 movie "The Great Escape," as well as documentaries depicting this heroic and dramatic history. Interestingly, Polish prisoners actively participated in the escape plan, highlighting their contribution to this extraordinary operation. The camp and its history have become a symbol of determination and courage in the face of harsh wartime conditions, as well as an example of the bravery of those who fought for freedom under extreme circumstances.