Southern Front
today - WW1 Records
Italy
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BRIESNITZ Paul August
Italian - WW1 Records and Document.
Records and Document shows from the Central Office for the Care and Commemoration of War Dead, Order No. 1315, from the Province of Udine, Italy.
(Ufficio centrale per la cura o le onoranze alle salme dei caduli in guerra n. d ordine 1315, provincia udine municipal elenco dei militari sepoll nel cimiero - austrian-ungarian cemitery in foddedofe comune di pondenone)
as follows:
**Municipal Register of Military Personnel Interred in the Cemetery**
**Austro-Hungarian Military Cemetery in ........**
**Municipality of Pordenone**
**Grave Reference:** H 8014 corpo reparto / No. 101
**Ossuary Reference:** No. 69
The "Order No. 1315"
The "Order No. 1315" and the province of Udine, which historically managed this area, connect his official German death record to the location of his remains today. It is highly likely that he died from wounds or disease in a military hospital in the Casarsa/Pordenone area while his battalion was assigned to occupation duties.
The document referenced above provides confirmation that August Briesnitz, who is also referred to as Priesnitz in Order No. 1315, played a crucial role in the German units that supported the Austro-Hungarian authorities during their occupation of Italy, particularly after the pivotal breakthrough in 1917. His burial in the Pordenone Urban Cemetery, specifically within the serene confines of the Ossuary Chapel, holds noteworthy significance. This location, along with nearby Casarsa della Delizia, served as vital logistics and medical hubs during the tumultuous final year of World War I, underscoring the strategic importance of the area during that critical period in history.
Why He Was in Italy ?
While Landsturm units were primarily used for security, his presence in Casarsa in February 1918 is significant. Following the Battle of Caporetto (Oct–Nov 1917), German and Austro-Hungarian forces occupied large parts of Northeastern Italy.
Occupation and Logistics: Casarsa was a major railway hub and logistics center behind the lines of the Piave Front.
Security Role: The Landsturm battalion was likely deployed there as part of the occupation forces to guard infrastructure, manage prisoners of war, or secure supply lines in the newly captured Italian territory.
Casualty Context: Dying in February 1918 from wounds suggests he may have been injured during the high-intensity advance in late 1917 or succumbed to illness/wounds while serving in the occupied zone.
Why He is in an "Austro-Hungarian" Register ?
Although Briesnitz served in a Prussian/German unit (2. Landsturm-Infanterie-Bataillon Paderborn VII. 30), the administration of military cemeteries in this region was often handled by the Austro-Hungarian authorities, as the Italian Front was their primary theater of war.
Logistics Hub: Casarsa was a major railway junction. German Landsturm units were frequently assigned to guard these essential supply lines and prisoner-of-war camps in occupied Friuli.
The Date: His death on February 20, 1918, in San Giovanni di Casarsa places him in the heart of the occupied Friuli region occurred during the stable period of the "Piave Front," after the initial chaos of Caporetto had subsided into a war of attrition along the river.
Duties: While he did not fight in the initial assault at Caporetto, his unit was deployed to the Italian theater to secure captured territory.
Hospitalization: Casarsa was a vital railway junction. The presence of military hospitals (Feldlazarette) there suggests he may have been wounded during a late-1917 operation or while performing high-risk security duties behind the Piave Front lines.
Why Was His Name Misspelled ?
The misspelling of names can often be attributed to the challenges faced in documenting and recording them during wartime, particularly in a hostile environment where communication is fraught with difficulty. The lack of familiarity with the nuances of spelling and pronunciation of foreign names exacerbated these challenges, leading to inaccuracies that have persisted over time.
As the author of this study, I frequently visit a military cemetery where I encounter relatives of fallen soldiers. This cemetery holds a deep significance for me, not only as a place of remembrance but also as a venue for connecting with those still affected by the sacrifices made during wartime. I have had the poignant experience of meeting family members who are searching for their ancestors, often discovering great-grandfathers who were laid to rest in the hallowed ground after serving in the First or Second World Wars.
In my hometown, I've spent considerable time at this military cemetery comparing the original burial registers with the inscriptions found on the headstones of the soldiers. This meticulous process has revealed numerous discrepancies. For instance, I found that the name "Krämer" was inscribed as "Kramer," showcasing how easily critical details can be altered or lost over time. Such differences not only reflect the struggles of accurate record-keeping during periods of chaos but also serve as a reminder of the personal stories behind each soldier's sacrifice.
**Why shifting the time of death from February 1918 to Late 1917 ** ?
The official date recorded for his death is February 20, 1918, as documented in the Death Certificate issued by the Standesamt Münsterberg, with the certificate numbered 113 and dated May 28, 1918. However, there are compelling reasons to consider the possibility of shifting the time of death to late 1917. This revision not only takes into account discrepancies in the documentation but also examines the historical context and circumstances surrounding his final days, which may suggest that he passed away earlier than officially recorded. Further investigation into the medical records, eyewitness accounts, and related events could provide additional insights that support this proposed change in the timeline.
When examining the timeline of the 2nd Landsturm Infantry Battalion VII 80 in conjunction with the records found at local parish or military cemetery registries, the date of February 20, 1918, reveals itself to be primarily an administrative occurrence rather than a significant battlefield event.
This understanding is underscored by what can be described as the Transposition Error, a phenomenon that arose amid the chaos of the winter retreat and the subsequent stalemate that characterized the trench warfare along the Piave River. During this tumultuous period, records of field deaths that occurred in November or December of 1917 were frequently compiled and documented in batches well after the fact, leading to inaccuracies in the recording of dates. This inconsistency complicates the historical narrative, as it is not uncommon for later entries to misrepresent the timing of these soldiers' deaths, further clouding the understanding of the events that transpired during this challenging phase of the war.
* February 20, 1918, marks the date when the administrative procedures were completed, indicating that the necessary documentation had moved through the divisional desk. This was also the moment when the local Standesamt, or registry office, in Germany officially recorded his death certificate, making the event seem concrete and final in the eyes of the authorities.
* The Unofficial Death: In reality, the man's life had begun to unravel long before this official date. The true collapse of his physical and mental state occurred a full year earlier, amidst the harsh conditions faced by his unit. As they were thrust into the relentless hardships of winter warfare in the Tagliamento River sector, he succumbed to the debilitating effects of illness, compounded by exhaustion from the logistical nightmare surrounding them. This slow degradation of his health marked the beginning of a decline that, while not officially acknowledged, sealed his fate long before the paperwork was finalized.
Why linking the Burial Location to the 1917 Reality. ?
* Finding him in Pordenone's civil cemetery rather than a strictly nationalistic military Locating him in the civil cemetery of Pordenone, as opposed to being interred in a strictly nationalistic military cemetery known as the "Military Cemetery" (Kriegerfriedhof), reflects a more accurate understanding of his circumstances. This choice of burial site aligns seamlessly with the likelihood that he was a casualty of illness or exhaustion during the tumultuous late stages of 1917. Such a decision highlights the tragic reality faced by many soldiers during that time, who succumbed not only to battlefield injuries but also to the harrowing effects of prolonged conflict, poor living conditions, and the relentless toll of war on their health. aligns perfectly with the reality of an illness or exhaustion casualty from late 1917.
* The Garrison Hospital Link: In the harsh and unforgiving conditions of the brutal winter offensive, if he were to succumb to illness, the protocol would have been to transfer him back along the primary railway line connecting Casarsa to Pordenone. This route was a critical artery for military operations, as Pordenone was equipped with larger, more advanced regional military hospitals. These facilities not only provided essential medical care but also housed substantial medical storage centers stocked with vital supplies and resources necessary for treating soldiers during the challenging winter months.
When an individual passes away in a regional base hospital, the process of registering their death is streamlined and closely tied to the local authorities. In this case, the death was officially registered with the municipal authorities of Pordenone, a city with its own designated protocols for handling such events. This procedural connection is significant as it provides a clear explanation for why the individual’s final resting place is located within the city’s urban cemetery. Rather than being buried in a remote battlefield trench — which is often the fate of those who die in combat — their gravesite is situated in a more recognizable and accessible location, reflecting both the circumstances of their passing and the administrative processes that accompany death in a civilian medical facility. The urban cemetery serves as a poignant reminder of the intertwining lives of the city’s residents and the sacrifices made, even if their final moments occurred far from the front lines.
This particular archival location provides valuable resources that can significantly aid in uncovering the mystery.
Why the Original Burial Date was 1917 at Antico Cimitero di San Giovanni ?
(also widely known as the Graveyard of San Giovanni di Casarsa or Cimitero Vecchio di San Giovanni)
In the aftermath of the Caporetto breakthrough, which marked a significant turning point during World War I, the German military swiftly set up makeshift field burial grounds. These temporary sites were strategically positioned close to essential logistics centers and provisional hospitals, allowing for an efficient response to the overwhelming number of casualties. The urgency of the situation necessitated that these burial grounds be established without delay, reflecting the dire circumstances of the time. As the conflict intensified, these grim sites became a sobering reminder of the human cost of war, serving both logistical needs and the haunting memory of those who lost their lives in this turbulent period.
The impact of World War I on the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region was profound, as it served as a crucial battleground during the Italian Front. The existing civilian graveyard in this area became a somber repository for the tragic loss of life that accompanied the conflict. This site not only accommodated local war casualties but also included the remains of those who fell victim to the Austro-Hungarian occupation in 1917. In addition to civilians, the graveyard became a resting place for military personnel from various backgrounds, reflecting the complex and often harrowing narratives of soldiers who fought in this tumultuous period. The convergence of these diverse groups in one location highlights the local community's collective grief and the lasting legacy of the war on the region's history.
In San Giovanni di Casarsa, the earliest casualties from various events were laid to rest in the "Antico Cimitero di San Giovanni," which served as the old communal cemetery. This burial ground was in operation throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, providing a final resting place for the local populace. The cemetery holds historical significance, as it reflects the cultural and social practices of the time, featuring graves and memorials that commemorate the lives of the community’s residents who have passed away during those years.
The field hospital ledgers, known as Lazarettbücher, alongside the original wooden grave markers from this burial plot, meticulously document the precise date on which Paul was interred by his fellow comrades. These records provide invaluable insights into his first burial place, capturing not only the date but also the circumstances surrounding his burial, reflecting the camaraderie and respect of those who laid him to rest.
Context and History - Scars of war
Was Antico Cimitero di San Giovanni di Casarsa used as temporary burial site in the WW1 ?
Cimiteri Militari della Prima Guerra Mondiale nell’Altopiano dei Sette Comuni.
YES - The Antico Cimitero di San Giovanni di Casarsa, also referred to as the ex Cimitero di San Giovanni, served as a temporary burial site during World War I. In the chaos and devastation of the war, this cemetery became a resting place for soldiers who lost their lives in the conflict, particularly in the surrounding regions. The use of the cemetery for this purpose was significant, as it provided a location for the respectful interment of fallen troops, allowing their families and communities to honor their sacrifices. After the war, the cemetery continued to hold historical importance as a site commemorating those who served, reflecting a poignant chapter in the local history of Casarsa and its role during the tumultuous times of the early 20th century.
The First World War stands as a pivotal chapter in Italian history, leaving behind a profound scar in the collective memory of the nation. This war did not merely impact the country as a whole; certain regions experienced its consequences with particular intensity, forever altering the fabric of local communities and landscapes.
In the aftermath of the conflict, the countries that participated faced the daunting challenge of managing the immense loss of life. Countless soldiers and civilians had perished on the battlefields, succumbing to injuries or illnesses sustained during the war. The urgent need arose to conduct large-scale operations to bury the vast number of deceased individuals, who lay scattered across war-torn territories.
To address this grim task, efforts began to methodically clear the land of unexploded ordnance and remnants of warfare that posed ongoing dangers to the living. Teams comprising military personnel and civilians worked tirelessly to recover the bodies of the fallen, ensuring that they were laid to rest with the dignity and respect they deserved. This process not only involved the physical act of excavation and burial but also required a careful consideration of the emotional weight carried by the families and communities who were left to mourn their losses. The scars of the past run deep, shaping the narrative of these regions and reinforcing the lasting impact of the Great War on Italian society.The First World War is a fundamental piece of Italian history and a deep scar in the country’s recent past, but especially so for the story of these places, which lived it more intensely.
After the war, all the countries involved had to deal with the problem of rapidly burying the myriads of dead on the battlefields or after wounds or illness, and a large-scale operation began to clear the land of unexploded devices and various other materials and recover the bodies of the fallen.
In the immediate aftermath of battles, the soldiers who lost their lives near the front lines were typically laid to rest in existing civilian cemeteries located in nearby communities, whenever feasible. In situations where this was not possible, makeshift graveyards, known as cimiteri di guerra or “war cemeteries” in Italian, were established in close proximity to forts or field hospitals. This practice was crucial in ensuring that the fallen received a dignified burial, even amidst the chaos of war.
For those who succumbed to their injuries after being transferred to hospitals located behind the front lines, arrangements were made to inter them in the cemeteries of nearby villages. Often, these burials took place in designated areas that were carefully fenced off, signifying a respectful separation for the soldiers from the civilian population.
As the war drew to a close, the necessity for providing soldiers with a more appropriate and honorable final resting place became increasingly evident. In response to this need, the Italian War Ministry issued a decree in 1920 that led to the establishment of the Ufficio centrale per la cura e per le onoranze dei Caduti in guerra. This office was tasked with the solemn duty of caring for the graves of the war dead and ensuring that they were honored appropriately, reflecting the gratitude and respect of a nation for those who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their country.
In the years that followed the conflicts, the remains of fallen soldiers that had been interred in makeshift or temporary “war cemeteries” were systematically exhumed and relocated to more permanent cemeteries that were better suited for visitors and situated closer to urban centers. These designated burial sites came to be known as cimiteri militari, which translates to “military cemeteries.”
In 1931, a significant piece of legislation was enacted titled Sistemazione definitiva delle salme dei Caduti in guerra, which focused on establishing permanent arrangements for the remains of those who died in warfare. This law addressed various concerns associated with the temporary nature of existing war and military cemeteries, as they failed to provide a dignified and secure resting place for the soldiers who had sacrificed their lives. As a result, this legislative action led to the official closure of many of these cemeteries and initiated a comprehensive effort to transfer the remains of the fallen to more appropriate locations for their commemoration.
This period marked the beginning of a national movement to honor and remember the soldiers through the construction of war memorials and commemorative sites, which began to take shape in the 1930s. These memorials were designed not only to pay tribute to the sacrifices made but also to create spaces where families and loved ones could gather in remembrance and reflection.
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![This Document is © by skr, the Author - Siegfried Kräker, @ Privacy Policy - all rights reserved by skr -- Document No. refers to the **Namelist of Austro-Hungarian War Dead (1915–1918) — Remains Reinterred in the Ossuary Chapel of the Municipal Cemetery of Pordenone** , **[Nomoantivo dei Caduti austro-ungarici guarra 1915 to 1918 Slatomasiono Resti nolla Capella Ossario del Cimattoro Urbano di Pordonono ] Priesnitz August Ossuary Urn No. 69**](images-Briesnitz/Doc-Nr-guorra-1915-1918..jpg "This Document is © by skr, the Author - Siegfried Kräker, @ Privacy Policy - all rights reserved by skr -- Document No. refers to the **Namelist of Austro-Hungarian War Dead (1915–1918) — Remains Reinterred in the Ossuary Chapel of the Municipal Cemetery of Pordenone** , **[Nomoantivo dei Caduti austro-ungarici guarra 1915 to 1918 Slatomasiono Resti nolla Capella Ossario del Cimattoro Urbano di Pordonono ]**")