Dunstable soldier"s daring escape from Nazis during WWII

A British soldier, Pte Ray Bailey, documented his harrowing escape from a Nazi prisoner of war camp during World War II. Captured in June 1940 while serving with the Kensington Regiment in France, he managed to flee captivity while being transported to a camp. His escape led him on a perilous journey of 2,000 miles through Nazi-occupied Europe, ultimately reaching Spain and returning to his home in Dunstable by December 1940. Bailey's account, consisting of 80,000 words, was discovered by David Wilkins at an auction, where he purchased a box of World War II memorabilia. Inside, he found not only Bailey's writings but also photographs and foreign currency, which provided a glimpse into the soldier's experiences. The memoir is notable for its immediacy, as it was written shortly after the events, capturing the vivid details of his ordeal. The narrative includes the challenges Bailey faced, such as going without food and relying on the kindness of strangers who assisted him during his escape. His story sheds light on the experiences of soldiers during the early years of the war, a perspective that is often overlooked in historical accounts. Raymond Tattle, a historical officer of the Kensington Regimental Association, praised Bailey's spirit and resilience, emphasizing the uniqueness of his story. The publication of this memoir not only honors Bailey's experiences but also enriches the understanding of the human side of wartime struggles.