World War II POW Camps of Wyoming Military: A Hidden History

World War II POW Camps of Wyoming (Military)

by Cheryl O'Brien

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4142 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	210 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE

During the tumultuous years of World War II, Wyoming became home to a series of military POW camps, playing a significant role in the internment and treatment of prisoners of war. These camps, established under the authority of the U.S. military, housed thousands of prisoners from enemy nations, including Germany, Italy, and Japan. While their existence has largely faded from public memory, these camps left an indelible mark on Wyoming's history and the lives of those who were confined within their boundaries.

Camp Hearne: A Prisoner of War Camp in Byron

Nestled in the picturesque Big Horn Basin, Camp Hearne emerged as the largest POW camp in Wyoming. Established in 1942, the camp initially housed German prisoners, but later expanded to accommodate Italian and Japanese prisoners as well. At its peak, Camp Hearne held over 5,000 prisoners, who were primarily employed in agricultural labor on nearby farms and ranches.

The camp consisted of a series of barracks, mess halls, and administrative buildings, surrounded by barbed wire fences and guard towers. The prisoners lived in cramped and often unsanitary conditions, with limited access to medical care and recreation. Despite these hardships, they established a vibrant community within the camp, organizing religious services, educational programs, and even a soccer league.

Camp Sheridan: A Prisoner of War Camp in Sheridan

Located near the town of Sheridan, Camp Sheridan served as a smaller POW camp, housing primarily German and Italian prisoners. The camp was established in 1943 and held a maximum of around 1,000 prisoners. Similar to Camp Hearne, the prisoners at Camp Sheridan were employed in agricultural labor and lived in basic barracks.

One notable feature of Camp Sheridan was its proximity to the town of Sheridan. This allowed for some interaction between the prisoners and the local community, including the establishment of a prisoner choir that performed in local churches.

Camp Phillips: A Prisoner of War Camp in Laramie

Camp Phillips, situated on the outskirts of Laramie, was the third POW camp established in Wyoming. It was primarily used to house Japanese-American prisoners, who were interned during the war due to concerns about their loyalty. The camp held over 1,000 prisoners, who were employed in a variety of jobs, including construction, maintenance, and gardening.

The prisoners at Camp Phillips faced unique challenges, as they were often subjected to prejudice and discrimination from both the guards and the surrounding community. Despite these difficulties, they maintained a strong sense of community and established a variety of educational and recreational activities.

The Impact on Wyoming Communities

The presence of these POW camps had a significant impact on the surrounding Wyoming communities. The influx of prisoners and guards brought new economic opportunities to towns like Byron, Sheridan, and Laramie. Local businesses benefited from the increased demand for goods and services, and some residents found employment as guards or in other camp-related jobs.

However, there were also tensions and conflicts between the prisoners and the local population. Some residents resented the presence of the camps and feared that the prisoners posed a security risk. Others expressed sympathy for the prisoners and saw them as victims of war. These tensions occasionally erupted into violence, including a riot that occurred at Camp Hearne in 1945.

Legacy and Remembrance

After the end of World War II, the POW camps in Wyoming were gradually closed down, and the prisoners were repatriated to their home countries. However, the legacy of these camps continues to resonate in Wyoming. The sites of the former camps have been designated as historic landmarks, and a number of museums and historical societies have been established to preserve and share their stories.

The history of the POW camps in Wyoming is a complex and multifaceted one. It is a story of conflict and sacrifice, but also of resilience and human connection. By exploring these hidden chapters of history, we gain a deeper understanding of the human experience during wartime and the lasting impact it can have on our communities.

The World War II POW camps of Wyoming Military played a significant role in the internment and treatment of prisoners of war during the conflict. These camps housed thousands of prisoners from enemy nations, who endured difficult conditions but also established vibrant communities within their confines. The camps had a lasting impact on the surrounding Wyoming communities, both positive and negative, and their legacy continues to be remembered and explored today. By delving into the hidden history of these camps, we gain a deeper appreciation for the complexities of war and the resilience of the human spirit.

World War II POW Camps of Wyoming (Military)

by Cheryl O'Brien

4.7 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	4142 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	210 pages
Lending	:	Enabled

FREE