We were sent to Quijarna, to help the infantry advance to the walls of the town. Fascists’ fire set two of our tanks aflame and put a third one out of commission. We however, succeeded in capturing their antirtank gun and the infantry was able to advance, taking many prisoners and arms. Six tankists were burned inside the tanks. One had a wound that resulted in the loss of his eye, while two others escaped unharmed.

One of the men who lost his life in that battle was Willie Bright, a German comrade whom I will always remember. His was the true spirit of a German antiefascistl He escaped from Hitler’s clutches to France. An excellent mechanic, he knew motors. He always spoke with confidence and firmness. His heart was with his people. That is why he was fighting against. fascism. He knew that there were thousands in Germany who would gladly come to Spain to fight against fascism and for democracy if they could only get the chance.

One day, our company was sent out to the northwest of Brunete. After a brief attack on a house situated on a hilltop, the infantry took seventy prisoners and a large amount of am» munition. There were two Moors, the rest Spaniards. They passed by our tanks, shouting “Viva la Republica!” “Viva el Frente Popular!" They told us that they were forced by Fran’ co’s officers to serve in the army. They had no. previous opportunity to cross over to the Government side. Italian, German and old Spanish Army officers have instituted a reign of terror. ‘

On Franco’s side, guards paid with their lives for any miss~ ing soldier. This was the only way for them to stop mass desertion to the Loyalist side. When the attack began, they came out, waving a white flag. They were glad to be on the Government side. One soldier, 48 years old, told us that he was given the choice of a bullet through his head or to serve Franco. Many prefer death.

One Moor, captured at Brunete, was badly wounded in the legs and hip, and pleaded to be killed. His religion taught him that to be killed on the battlefield is the greatest and noblest achievement and that as a reward he would go to the Seventh Heaven where he would enjoy many delights. If, however, he

13