Train sabotage. Close encounters with torpedoes. A missing child. Our good friend Mr. Fred regularly delights my family with visits over breakfast where he has slowly shared many tales of his childhood during the 2nd World War. His story is absolutely fascinating.

Mr. Fred attend Chefoo School, a boarding school in China for the children of missionaries.

Chefoo_in_snow
Image is in the public domain

Side note – the school was established by James Hudson Taylor whose story is also fascinating

In 1938 when Japan invaded Chefoo during World War II, the staff and students were considered “neutrals” and the school routine went on as usual. Then came 1941 and the attack on Pearl Harbor. Their status became much more precarious as the children became prisoners of war.

Here, with Mr. Fred’s permission, is his account of the prisoner exchange that led to his freedom – a very perilous, and slightly comical journey.

First Chefoo School Repatriation by Fred Woodberry by Liberty

Side note number two – I love Mr. Fred’s very descriptive style of writing, and use of literary quotes.

History is alive. It is the experience of real people.Who do you know that has a story to share?

Sheryl e-signature

WWII Repatriation, A First-hand Account

2 thoughts on “WWII Repatriation, A First-hand Account

  • July 10, 2013 at 2:40 PM
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    This is amazing- how wonderful for your children to be able to know him.

    • July 10, 2013 at 6:15 PM
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      It really is an honor. He is one of those wonderful people that can never visit often enough.

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