Toma Andras Hungarian prisoner of war Date of Birth: 05.12.1925 Country: Hungary

1. Birth and Early Life
2. Capture and Imprisonment
3. Transfer to Russia and Psychiatric Hospitalization
4. Hospital Records
5. Isolation and a Rare Connection
6. Heavy Smoking and Leg Amputation
7. Attempts at Repatriation
8. A Lifeline and International Recognition
9. Return to Hungary (August 11, 2000)

Birth and Early Life

Andras Toma, a Hungarian, was born on December 5, 1925, in Ujfeherto, Hungary. At 17, he voluntarily enlisted in the Hungarian army, which was fighting alongside Nazi Germany on the Eastern Front.

Capture and Imprisonment

During the war, Toma was captured by Soviet forces in Poland. He was initially held in a prisoner-of-war camp in the Leningrad region until January 1947.

Transfer to Russia and Psychiatric Hospitalization

In preparation for repatriation, prisoners were sent inland to Russia to recuperate. However, the harsh conditions of the journey took their toll, with many dying during transportation. This experience is believed to have affected Toma's psyche.

Upon arrival at Tarasovy village in the Kirov region, Toma's erratic behavior was noticed, leading to his admission to the psychiatric hospital in Kotel'nich. When Hungarian soldiers were repatriated in that same year, Toma was forgotten. Consequently, he spent the next 53 years of his life in the psychiatric hospital.

Hospital Records

Hospital records from 1947 described Toma as malnourished, with impaired cognitive function and communication skills. He refused to take medication and exhibited aggressive behavior.

Isolation and a Rare Connection

Initially, Toma was isolated and refused to learn Russian. The only Russian word he used frequently was "Nekerchi!" (Don't shout!), whenever someone tried to engage with him. His only connection in the hospital was Gennadiy, an alcoholic janitor who taught him how to repair plumbing.

Heavy Smoking and Leg Amputation

Toma was a heavy smoker, which contributed to the later amputation of his leg in old age.

Attempts at Repatriation

In the 1990s, the hospital's chief doctor contacted the Hungarian Red Cross, but officials showed indifference.

A Lifeline and International Recognition

A turning point came when the chief doctor met Karl Morawczyk, a Slovak and former Hungarian resident who spoke fluent Hungarian. Morawczyk visited Toma and established contact. Media reports on Toma's story sparked interest in Hungary, and renowned neuropathologist Dr. Andras Veér confirmed his Hungarian identity.

Return to Hungary (August 11, 2000)

After 53 years in the psychiatric hospital, Toma was finally repatriated on August 11, 2000. Back in Hungary, he lived with his brother's wife, received a pension, and was promoted to senior sergeant.