Tape 3 Side 1
Luxembourg and Prince Felix
The recording discusses Prince Felix’s kindness before departure from Luxembourg, mentioning decorations bestowed including the Cross of the Chevalier and the Croix de Guerre of Luxembourg.
General Patton
Sapieha characterises Patton as “an extraordinary fellow” and skilled military leader whose Third Army was “disciplined” and “in perfect shape.” He references the infamous slapping incident in Sicily and Patton’s later death in a motor accident, the circumstances of which remained unclear.
Marlene Dietrich
The narrative describes chance meetings with Dietrich in Luxembourg and Nancy, including an evening where she performed and sang while the group consumed cognac.
Military Operations in Germany
Details cover movement through Germany, the discovery of concentration camps near Ohrdruf, and encounters with German civilians who claimed ignorance about the camps despite their proximity and the odours from them.
Post-Capitulation Activities
Following the May 1945 capitulation, Sapieha coordinated repatriation efforts at Torgau, facilitated meetings between American and Soviet commanders, and arranged the reception logistics for Marshal Konev’s visit to headquarters.