Papers and photographs, 1942-1999, (bulk 1942-1945).

ArchivalResource

Diefenthaler, Willard F., 1922-. Papers and photographs, 1942-1999, (bulk 1942-1945).

Papers and photographs, 1942-1999, (bulk 1942-1945).

http://www.worldcat.org/oclc/58542688

Papers and photographs of Willard F. Diefenthaler, a soldier in the 106th Infantry Division who, along with his twin brother Wilbur, was taken prisoner by the Germans following the Battle of the Bulge in World War II. A large portion of the collection relates to the death of Wilbur while being held at Stalag IX-B in Germany. There are letters to Willard, who was in a different POW camp, and their parents informing them of Wilbur's death and further correspondence relating to the disposition of his body, which was buried in France after the war. Also included are several letters written by Willard while being held as a prisoner by the Germans and the first letter he wrote to his parents after he was liberated by Allied forces. A piece of paper with various notes written by the doctor who treated Wilbur is also in the collection. Photographs include several shots of Willard and Wilbur in uniform during the war and others of Willard, in World War II uniform, giving presentations to various groups on his experiences. There are also several photos of Wilbur's headstone in France.

Papers : 0.2 linear ft. (1 archives box) and.Photographs : 0.1 linear ft. (7 folders) and.Paper prints : 0.1 linear ft. (6 folders)

Wisconsin Veterans Museum Research Center