I had the great pleasure of talking to Andy Creber about his Grandfather Werner Rang. A well known Sark resident post war.
This conversation delves into the remarkable life of Werner Rang, a German medical orderly conscripted during World War II, who served in the Channel Islands.
His story is shared by his grandson, Andy, who recounts Werner’s experiences from his idyllic childhood in Germany, through his conscription and medical duties during the occupation, to his post-war life in Sark.
The discussion highlights the complexities of identity, duty, and personal connections formed during and after the war, as well as the importance of preserving family history through photographs and letters.
Takeaways
- Werner Rang was a German medical orderly conscripted during WWII.
- He served in the Channel Islands during the German occupation.
- Werner was awarded the British Empire Medal for his service as a paramedic.
- He met his wife, Phyllis, while serving in Sark. Their relationship blossomed through letters during the war.
- Werner was a POW after the war but continued to provide medical care.
- He became a respected member of the Sark community post-war. Werner’s story reflects the complexities of wartime identity.
- Family photographs and letters are vital for preserving history. The conversation emphasises the importance of sharing personal stories.
Listen below or on your favourite podcast app.
This special also has a video available here.
