The Town- Werl The town of Werl was the home of the 4th USAFAD. Located in Nordrhein Westfalen, Werl was about 30 "clicks" (Kilometers) east of Dortmund, and in the general area of Hamm, Unna, Wickede, Buderich, and Soest. Like so many other small rural German towns, Werl had a social and cultural existence that obviously revolved around convenience (for the local citizens), community, family, and a healthy pride. This was evidenced by "walking only" shopping areas, or "Walkplatz" (Walk Place) shopping and eating areas; many park like areas and Churches; small private owned business such as Bakeries and "Imbiss" shops (which were small food shops/convenience store, but MUCH smaller than a 7-11); excellent public transportation, either from Taxi's, or the Banhoff (train station). Everything was clean, well kept, beautiful, and it was clear that the locals took great pride in the town and their homes and businesses. The people of Werl were fairly conservative in some ways, and liberal in others. Family was strong, education was very important, and they were always very friendly and warm to American servicemen and women. There was plenty of wonderful old architecture, in every form, and the 4th USAFAD was just down the road from a maximum security prison which held Nürenburg trial convicts. In fact, the 4th USAFAD was built nearly on top of an old Luftwaffe (German Air Force) base that was used by Nazi forces. Even until the last decade, relics from that time (WWII) are being found by those willing to look for them in the countryside. And of course, there was plenty of "nightlife" for all of those Belgian and American soldiers stationed in the area. In fact, the area was frequented by those from the Scottish military as well. Some of the clubs that existed in the 80's were "King George's"; "Pips"; "Alt Werl"; "Bierdorf". For many of the 4th USAFAD, Werl was one of the first homes away from home. And it was a great one for most of us... |