Prisoner of War mail, by Ruggero Bacci, to Mrs. Minnie Bacci, April 16, 1943 - solo in inglese

This handwritten prisoner of war mail in Italian, was sent by Ruggero Bacci, and is addressed to his wife Minnie Bacci, on April 16, 1943.

Bacci writes that he is happy to hear that everyone is well. He also writes about the Commission, which is reviewing the internee cases. It would seem that he is referring to the advisory committee appointed under the DOCR (Defence of Canada Regulations), to which, after 30 days, internees could formally object to their detention. The Minister of Justice then appointed a judge to review the internee’s case. This meant an examination of the RCMP’s evidence against the internee, meetings with the internee, and interviews with witnesses who could attest to the internee’s character. After this, the judge either recommended an internee’s release or continued internment to the Minister of Justice.

In Bacci's case, he expresses doubt that he will receive another review. He tells his wife not to expect his release or listen to those who suggest it will soon occur. Bacci believes they are just trying to encourage her, but that as an Italian citizen he will not be released anytime soon. Bacci notes only the RCMP can release him, and she should not rely on the words of others, or waste more money trying to secure his release (this may refer to the hiring of a lawyer). He says the constant disappointment has been emotionally taxing, and he would rather not know anything unless it is certain. He notes he is now paying the consequences for being "too frank" and "too honest" in his lifetime. In fact, Bacci was released a little over a month later.

In all, Bacci was interned for almost three years. In his absence, his wife Erminia (Minnie) suffered a serious nervous breakdown and was hospitalized at length. Bacci's oldest son Aldo was forced to quit high school to help support the family. When his father was released and returned home, Aldo received notice that he was conscripted into the Canadian Army; however, he did not serve overseas.

This document forms part of a collection of documents and other materials on loan by the Bacci family.