How long did we keep German POWs interned here in the states after Germany surrendered? WWII?

Answer 1

For various reasons, the last German Prisoners of War were kept here in the United States until 1948 - 1949. Some of them had become employees of the U.S. Government and had to complete training programs here in the United States before returning to Germany as translators and administrators in the new West Germany government. Others were trained as C.I.A. Operatives to infiltrate into the Soviet controlled East Germany and the last groups of prisoners were the few remaining hardcore Nazis who were considered to be an integration problem in the post war Germany. 'Werwolves' were SS trained youth units that were responsible the deaths of several U.S. servicemen after the war was over. There was also a certain criminal element of the German population that required re-education.

Answer 2

Almost all were returned within about a year and I think all gone by the end of 1946. Some requested and were allowed to remain here in the U.S. Some of the POW's volunteered for a "work release" type program and helped on the farms in this area (East Tennessee) working during the day and returning to the camps t night. Some requested to stay in this area and were allowed too. I personally know of two who lived near where my mother worked. One got his family here after a few years and the others family had been killed and remarried a local girl some years after it was over-knew there son.

Answer 3

I believe all of them who wished to be returned to Germany were gone by late 1946. Some refused repatriation. A lot of them became the celery farmers of Crystal City, Texas since their camp was near the town.

Answer 4

It is interesting that many camps were more like minimal security prisons allowing work release to many of the prisioners.

Answer 5

they are still POW now