Meaning of "Compass" for pows?

Discussion in 'UK PoW Camps' started by Malcolm56, Jun 18, 2022.

  1. Malcolm56

    Malcolm56 Well-Known Member

    In an April 1947 report on Exhibition Field Camp 42, there is a list of repatriated pows:

    A’s - 202 / Groups - 34 / Sick - 117 / Compass - 7 / PP - 3 / Specials - 13.

    Can anyone tell me what 'Compass' means in this list?

    Thank you - Malcolm
     
  2. Osborne2

    Osborne2 Well-Known Member

    Hi Malcolm. I suspect its an admin error in typing the document. I think its a miss-spelling of CROWCASS. This from something I am working on:

    'Their evidence was placed before the Central Registry of War Criminals and Security Suspects [CROWCASS] founded in December 1942 after discovery of the genocide of the Jews in Europe. The named individuals had to be held if they were discovered in prison camps.'
     
    Last edited: Jun 18, 2022
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  3. Blutto

    Blutto Banned

    Disregard, missed the topic title.
     
  4. horsapassenger

    horsapassenger Senior Member

    I suspect that the abbreviation mght be compassionate
     
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  5. Malcolm56

    Malcolm56 Well-Known Member

    Great couple of responses - Thank you!
     
  6. Osborne2

    Osborne2 Well-Known Member

    On reviewing the context of the quote, I now agree with horsapassenger that the reference is to compassionate. These were cases where corroborating evidence by the applicant usually had to be generated from family etc. back in Germany. IIRC this category for repatriates was introduced from autumn 1946. CROWCASS suspects were held on to until inquiries were complete.
     
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