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My grandfather was John Gribbin and he and his two brothers (Walter and Thomas) were captured at Dunkirk in 1940. They endured the famous 'Long Walk' and were imprisoned at Stalag VIIIB. I know of a few stories which have been passed down the family but one that springs to mind is 'What happened upon arrival at Stalag VIIIB'.

Every prisoner had to give their names. Eventually it was Thomas' turn. 'Thomas Gribbin' he said. Secondly, and much to the germans amusement, was Walter. 'Walter Gribbin' he answered. Well, the germans thought it was hilarious that they had captured two brothers. Next, it was my grandfather's turn to give his name 'John Gribbin' he said. One particular german asumed he was 'taking the mickey' and pulled a gun on him! - I believe there was a bit of a scuffle and somehow they managed to make him see that they were really all brothers, all three of them.

Does anyone remember this incident or indeed any of the three brothers?

At this point, my grandfather thought it would be wise to learn the german language as quickly as possible, which he did and he was also known as the 'Translator', a very useful person to be in a bilingual place!

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