Enemies Become Friends

Enemies become Friends 2003

At the end of the World War there were over 400, 000 German POWs held in Britain. Not mentioned in the film is that they were held for far too long. International law stipulated that repatriation should start after the signing of a peace treaty. They were a very useful labour force, working mostly in agriculture.

It was a great story. Near where I’m from up north in England I found out the German POWS went to church with the locals. First they sat separately then together. Then at Christmas many of these young men were invited to the homes of their former enemy.

I have to say, I was pleased to get this film commission. Most world war 2 stories in Germany are about the holocaust. I wanted to show humanity and kindness, found in most people. I was ever so lucky to have three great protagonists, former POW’S.

Bernd Trautmann

Discovered whilst serving time. His incredible bravery between Manchester City’s posts is admired by all. In 1956 played in the Man City Cup Final with a severe injury. (Unknown to him, he’d broken his neck.). Man city beat Birmingham city 3-1. Bernd Trautmann helped build bridges between the two former enemies. A very modest, lovely man.

Professor Jürgen Moltmann

At Nottingham university I saw hundreds of young people stand and applaud the great man, a Professor of theology. One of his quotes brought about his experience as a POW.

“Totally without hope one cannot live. To live without hope is to cease to live. Hell is hopelessness. It is no accident that above the entrance to Dante’s hell is the inscription: “Leave behind all hope, you who enter here.””

Hans Vallentin

Hans was transporting post aged just 17 in a small Luftwaffe transporter aircraft. He was captured after bailing out on his first flight. Hans settled in north England and spent his entire life surrounded by his loving family.