The latest episode of the Apple TV+ drama Masters of the Air has garnered attention as Major John Egan and his fellow pilots are taken to the infamous Stalag Luft III prison camp, a real-life war prison that housed thousands of Royal Air Force and United States Air Force pilots during World War II. The camp, established in March 1942 and situated on the western border of Poland, was initially designed to house British pilots from the Royal Air Force but later expanded to accommodate American pilots shot down and captured behind enemy lines. At its peak, the camp held over 10,000 members of the RAF and USAF, with 7,500 being American pilots and soldiers.
Life in the camp was harsh, with prisoners being given a meager breakfast of bread filled with sawdust, a light potato soup for lunch, and a meat and potato roll for dinner. Despite these difficulties, the prisoners found ways to pass the time, engaging in various activities such as soccer, cricket, softball, volleyball, golf, and ice hockey, as well as teaching classes. One of the most notable events in the camp’s history was the 1943-1944 escape attempt led by Royal Air Force pilot Roger Bushell. The tunnel, built over several months, was designed to extend beyond the camp’s perimeter fence and into the treeline. Although only 76 men made it out of the camp, the Nazi authorities caught 73 of them, executing 50.
A Still From Masters of the Air TV Show (Photo: Masters of the Air)
As the show delves into the world of Stalag Luft III, viewers can expect a realistic portrayal of life in the prison camp, showcasing the prisoners’ resilience and resourcefulness in the face of adversity. The show’s creators have taken care to accurately depict the harsh conditions and desperation of the prisoners, while also exploring the psychological toll of captivity on those who were held at Stalag Luft III. With its gripping storyline and authentic portrayal of the World War II era, Masters of the Air is a must-watch for history buffs and drama enthusiasts alike.
