The Rome Escape Line

Book excerpt: The Rome Escape Line, first published in 1960, is the firsthand World War II account of British Army officer Sam Derry, who, himself an escaped prisoner-of-war, remained in Rome to help other escaped POWs remain in hiding or to safely flee Italy altogether. With the help of Right Rev. Monsignor Hugh O'Flaherty, an official in the Vatican's Holy Office, Derry is given the assignment of overseeing the escape operation, obtaining money, papers, food, and lodging for the escapees. Unfortunately, there were traitors and leaks to deal with, and the German response following round-ups of captured POWs was often brutal. Overall, The Rome Escape Line provides valuable insight into a remarkable operation, reported in a humble, matter-of-fact manner by a true war-hero.