Arthur Hemmings spent much of his life as a husband, father, grandfather, and hardworking man who rarely spoke about the past. To those closest to him, he seemed ordinary. Behind that quiet exterior lay a remarkable wartime story shaped by hardship, courage, determination, and experiences that would leave a lasting impact on generations to come.

During the Second World War, Arthur served in North Africa before being captured and sent to Italy as a prisoner of war. Held at Campo 65 and later Campo 145, he endured uncertainty, deprivation, and the constant challenge of survival. When an opportunity for freedom appeared, he escaped and began a dangerous journey across unfamiliar terrain, relying on resilience and the kindness of strangers.

Years later, his granddaughter, Dawn Hemmings, set out to uncover the truth behind the fragments of stories he had shared. Through military records, personal correspondence, historical research, and visits to the places connected to his captivity, she reconstructed a family history that had remained hidden for decades.

Blending biography, wartime research, and personal discovery, The Man I Knew as Grandad offers an intimate look at the human side of conflict. It explores memory, sacrifice, and the enduring connections between generations, reminding readers that some of the most meaningful histories are often found within our own families.