3 copies
2d copy
Dear Rascher!
I acknowledge the receipt of your letter of the 9th and 10th and both
notes of 16 October 1942.
I have read your report regarding cooling experiments on humans with
great interest. SS Sturmbannfuehrer Sievers should arrange the
possibility of evaluation at institutes which are connected with us.
I regard these people as guilty of treason and high treason, who, still
today, reject these experiments on humans and would instead let sturdy
German soldiers die as a result of these cooling methods. I shall not
hesitate to report these men to the offices concerned. I empower you to
make my opinion on this known to the offices concerned.
I invite you to a personal conference in November as I cannot make it
sooner despite my great interest.
SS Obergruppenfuehrer Wolff will once again get in touch with Field
Marshal Milch. You are empowered to make a report to Field Marshal
Milch—and, of course, to the Reich Marshal if he has time—concerning
those who are not doctors.
I think that covers which have heat packets or something similar sewed
in their lining are the best for the warming of those who were stranded
at sea and were picked up in boats or small vessels and where there is
no possibility of placing these chilled people in a hot bath. I take it
for granted that you know these heat packets which we also have in the
SS and which were used by the Russians a great deal. They consist of a
mass which develops a warmth of 70° to 80° upon addition of water and
retains it for hours.
I am very curious as to the experiments with body warmth. I personally
take it that these experiments will probably bring the best and lasting
results. Naturally, I could be mistaken.
Keep me informed on future findings. Of course we will see each other in
November.
Heil Hitler!
Yours
[Signed] H. HIMMLER