---
title: 'FBI File 100-210108 - Austin J. App'
url: 'https://samisdat.in/books/fbi-file-100-210108---austin-j-app-1999/read'
markdown: 'https://samisdat.in/books/fbi-file-100-210108---austin-j-app-1999/read.md'
lang: eng
date: '1999-06-15'
description: 'U.S. Department of Justice Federal Bureau of Investigation 935 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W. Mr. Ernie Lazar Post Office Box 423434 San Francisco, CA 94142-3434 Washington, D.C. 20535-0001 Subject of Request: Austin J. App FOIPA No. 429560 /190- HQ-1250810 Dear Requester Enclosed are copies of documents…'
---

#### U.S. Department of Justice

![](https://samisdat.in/user/pages/03.books/1999%20-%20FBI%20File%20100-210108%20-%20Austin%20J.%20App/read/_page_0_Picture_2.jpeg?g-b5914282)

Federal Bureau of Investigation 935 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W.

Mr. Ernie Lazar Post Office Box 423434 San Francisco, CA 94142-3434 Washington, D.C. 20535-0001

Subject of Request: Austin J. App

FOIPA No. 429560 /190- HQ-1250810

#### Dear Requester

Enclosed are copies of documents from FBI records. Excisions have been made to protect information exempt from disclosure pursuant to Title 5, United States Code, Section 552 (Freedom of Information Act) and/or Section 552a (Privacy Act). In addition, where excisions were made, the appropriate exempting subsections have been cited opposite the deletions. Where pages have been withheld in their entirety, a deleted page information sheet has been substituted showing the reasons or basis for the deletion. The subsections cited for withholding information from the enclosed documents are marked below:

| Section 552 |  | Section 552a |
|---|---|---|
| ☑ (b)(1) | □ (b)(7)(A) | ☐ (d)(5) |
| ☐ (b)(2) | □ (b)(7)(B) | ☐ (j)(2) |
| □ (b)(3) |  | □ (k)(1) |
|  |  | ☐ (k)(2) |
|  | □ (b)(7)(E) | ☐ (k)(3) |
|  | ☐ (b)(7)(F) | □ (k)(4) |
| □ (b)(4) | □ (b)(8) | □ (k)(5) |
| □ (b)(5) | □ (b)(9) | ☐ (k)(6) |
| □ (b)(6) |  | □ (k)(7) |
| (See Form OPCA-16a, enclosed, Pursuant to your request, 40 being released. | for an explanation of these exemption pages(s) were reviewed | ons.) and 251 page(s) are |
| During the review of material pe | rtinent to the subject of your reques | t, documents were located |
| ☑ originated with another Gov These documents were refer | vernment agency(ies). Tred to that agency(ies) for review an | nd direct response to you. |
| ☐ contain information furnished FBI as to the releasability of agency(ies). | ed by another Government agency(ie. of this information following our cor | s). You will be advised by the asultation with the other |

# Freedom of Information and Privacy Acts

Subject: Austin J. App

File Number: 100-210108

![](https://samisdat.in/user/pages/03.books/1999%20-%20FBI%20File%20100-210108%20-%20Austin%20J.%20App/read/_page_1_Picture_3.jpeg?g-b5914282)

Federal Bureau of Investigation

## FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

| 113 CASE ORIGINATED AT | SAN ANTONIO, T | EAAS | DA FILE NO. | 105-76 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| REPORT MADE AT | DATE WHEN MADE | PERIOD FOR WHICH MADE | REPORT MADE BY |  |
| SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS | 12/1/4 | 11/4,21/14 |  | OM |
| AUSTIN J. APP | \\$ 60 |  | INTERNAL SE | CURITY - G |
| TO: C + A 2. REC'D - 9-64 JAN 22 1964 S. | Subject, an Antonio, Tex be of German unconditiona made a trip | English profess as, reported to descent. Subj l surrender dem to Mexico in Se | or at a girls' co be pro-German an ect is outspoken and against the G ptember, 1944. L ALL INFORMATION | llege in San d is believed t against Allies ermans. Subject eads set forth. |
| Jul all |  | 1823 | HEREIN IS UNCLAS | SIFIED |
| DETAILS: | This investi | gation is predi | cated upon inform | ation received |
|  | from |  | san . | Antonio, Texas |
|  | W W W | no is of German | descent, advised | that the Sub- |
|  |  | in San Antonio, | Texas. He stat | ed that Subjec |
| x1 | O came to Sen | Antonio in the | early part of Sep | tember, 1944, |
| Caller | Antonio He | n professor in stated that Su | the Incarnate Worlbiect speaks with | d College, San |
| 1 Danstonal | and that rec | ently he had to | lked to Subject i | n cerman, and |
| 6 MAN TO SELECT 1 | that in ever | y respect he we | s very suspicious | of Subject as |
| 100 00 · 00 and | fic statemen | ts which Subject | t had made, but s | tated that he |
| Ole the men | has endeavor | ed to defend Ge | rmany in every wa | y |
| 000 119 | advised that | this was the f | irst year of Subj | ect's teaching |
| PULL 13 XX | ing that Sub | ject had taught | tor to this, it we at the Universit | as his undersur v of Scranton |
| 171070 | at Scranton, | Pa., and had l | lived at 343 Harri | son Ave., in |
| REO. REC'D / 1 - 521-6 | that city. | He advised furt | ther that Subject | is registered |
| FFR 7 10RA | With the la | DORTH IN SCI | ne has ascertained | that he is a |
| ANS. | member of th | e Columbus Maus | ennerchor, a Germa | n organization |
| By fuch de | located at 9 | 66 south High S | St., in Columbus, | Ohio. |
| APPROVED AND OF AR | STATED THAT | Subject Hert St | DO NOT WRITE IN THESE SPACE | ember o, 1944. |
| PODULADDED. TILLE INTER | -11. me An | 100 01 | 10108 11 |  |
| FORWARDED: DUCTORANTE |  | 7 1 1 1 3 6 1 - 11 1 |  | BECORDE |
| OPIES DESTROYED | PORT CLARA | 100 FAI | \# Ma | TALEX SO |
| OPIES DESTROYED COPIES OF THIS RE | PORT Glack, | 100 F81 | \# 1/h | MADER SO |
| COPIES DESTROYED COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS RE COPIES OF THIS | ti nhie | 100 - 21 | et yl | RECORDION & |

and made a trip to Monterrey, Mexico, and vicinity, and returned to this city on September 17th. He stated that Subject had talked to him about going to Mexico city and other places in Mexico prior to this trip. It tated that Subject had told him that he was not in favor of HITLER, but that it was due to the last peace of the last world war the Germans which caused this war. He stated that the German people did not want war and were positively against unconditional surrender demands of the Allies. Subject then stated that there would be no HITLER if the peace terms, as a result of the last world war, had been just. He stated that Subject had also made the statements that someday there will be streets in the United States named after HITLER.

was interviewed, and she furnished substantially the same

On November 1, 1944, there appeared an editorial in the San Antonio Express newspaper, the daily newspaper printed in San Antonio, which editorial was principally a discussion of the starvation and ill health in France as a natural consequence of German occupation and mismanagement. On November 4, 1944,

of the San Antonio Express newspaper, furnished this Office with the following letter from Subject, which had been written by Subject to the newspaper:

"I read with interest your editorial analysis of the under-nourishment and ill health in France.

Your principal conclusion is that such starvation and ill health is the natural consequence of German occupation and mis-management.

Upon some thought I believe that other causes can be added to your analysis, which I humbly add.

Another cause of the starvation and ill health of France is the Allied blockade of Europe. Whenever Europe is subjected to a food blockade all Europe so blockaded suffers from a shortage of food. That is why the blockade is undertaken. In the last war the Germans themselves often died of starvation. With the Allied blockade in effect against France, even if every German were a Hoover or a Lehman, there would be a shortage of food.

Another cause is the Allied bombing of France. You probably read the bitter protest of the French bishops to beg the Allies to stop bombing France. If Allied bombing was as successful as we were led to believe then it must have created endless disruption in food and medical distribution in France.

Another cause is the vast French underground encouraged and often supplied by the Allies for the purpose of disrupting transportation, and food production and distribution. How disrupting such underground elements are is being noted now that they are beginning to interfere with the present occupiers of France.

Interesting facts that could be added to your analysis are that many more millions have died of starvation in Allied occupied territory that in Axis occupied territory. British and American occupied India has just gone through the most ghastly starvation in history, but that was due not to any British (or American) savagery but to the dreadful consequences of war. Millions have died of starvation in Free China, occupied by Chiang Kaishek (and apparently some of our troops), but their death by starvation is not due to Kaishek's "savagery", but to the consequences of war, such wars as our Ally Russia started against Finland and our opponent Germany started against poland, and our one-time ally of 1917, Japan, started against China.

Since newspapers pride themselves on being fair and just and on seeing all the causes, come hell or highwater, I thought you might not mind my extending your analysis of the causes of French starvation. I think it is noble of you to concern yourself with the starving and suffering people all over the world.

Sincerely yours,

/s/ AUSTIN J. APP

Austin J. App, Ph.D."

The following description of Subject was obtained from observation:

Name AUSTIN J. APP, Ph.D.

Age Approximately 35 yrs.

Height 5° 8"

Weight 180

Hair Brown

Complexion Ruddy

#### PEN DYING

## FEDERAL BUREAU OF INVESTIGATION

DETATES:

The title of this report is being changed to reflect the full name of the subject as listed in his Selective Service file.

Sonfidential Informant whose identity is known to the Bureau, furnished the following information:

62 671)

APP at that time was head of the English Department at the University of Scranton. He was born in Wisconsin of German parents. He secured his A. B. degree at St. Francis Seminary, St. Francis, Minnesota, in 1924. He received his M. A. in 1926 and his Ph. D. in 1929 at the Catholic University, Washington, D. C. He was employed as a professor at Catholic University from 1927 to 1935. He has been employed at the University of Scranton since 1936. He reportedly has taken postgraduate courses at Oxford University, Oxford, England. He has visited Mexico, Panama, and Canada. He has also served as college professor during summer sessions at Laros College, Dubuque, Iowa. This informant states that the subject had been called before the school authorities at Scranton University because of the subversive character of his lectures. On December 8, 1942, he reportedly addressed his class as follows: "America is to be blamed for our war with Japan because Japan is like a dog which, if teased long enough will finally turn and bite you." He reportedly made statements that the Germans were a superior race and that America would do better to ally itself with Germany rather than England. He wrote a pro-German review of the book "The Moon is Down" by JOHN STEINBECK.

He was reportedly bitter about his induction into the United States Army. This informant described the subject as highly intelligent, exceptionally clever, and an able professor who may be dangerous because of his ability to influence others.

In July, 1943, Confidential Informant whose identity is known to the Bureau, forwarded a constitution to the Philadelphia Field Division. This communication was transitted to the Cincinnati Field Division by letter dated February 16, 1944, as the subject was presently residing at Hilliard, Ohio, at that time. A lead is being set forth for the Cincinnati Field Division to review the information furnished by this informant for the benefit of the San Antonio Field Division. A copy of this communication from Confidential Informant is not available at this time in the Philadelphia Field Division.

### AT SCRANTON, PENNSYLVANIA

On January 29, 1945, of Local Draft Board No. 6, 336 North Washington Avenue, Turnished the b7c

following information from the subject's Selective Service file: AUSTIN JOSEPH APP, while residing at 143 Harrison areas. Scranton, registered under the Selective Training and Service Act on February 16, 1942. He was assigned order No. 1825 and serial No. 1770. At that time he was employed as a professor at the University of Scranton, 331 Wyoming Avenue. He listed as the person who would always know his address Mr. AUGUST H. APP, Menomonce Falls, Wisconsin. His questionnaire, which was filed June 1, 1942, stated that he had attended St. Francis Seminary at St. Francis, Minnesota; Catholic University at Washington, D. C.; and two summer sessions at the University of Wisconsin, Madison, Wisconsin. He stated that he could translate both German and Spanish. He had taught as a professor at Catholic University in Washington, D. C., Scranton University, and planned to teach during the summer session of 1942 at Laros College, Dubuque, Iowa.

He was inducted into the United States Army on September 11, 1942, at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, and was assigned to the New Cumber-land Reception Center, New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, on September 25, 1942. He was honorably discharged from the United States Army on March 12, 1943 at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana. His rank at the time of discharge was private and his serial number was 33353746.

After his discharge, he was employed at the Jaeger Machine Company, 550 West Spring, Columbus, Ohio. He worked for this company about six months when he secured a position teaching English Composition at St. Mary of the Springs College at Columbus, Ohio. He is presently employed as a professor at the Incarnate Word College, San Antonio, Texas.

He secured permission from this local board to visit Mexico from September 6 to 20, 1944, "for pleasure and education trip."

The following changes of address were listed in the subject's file:

June 19, 1942 Laros College, Dubuque, Iowa;

September 2, 1942 University of Scranton;

May 1, 1944 476 West Seventh Avenue, Columbus, Chio;

September 1, 1944 146 Davis Court, San Antonio, Texas.

rented an apartment

to the subject for about four or five years prior to the fall of 1942. She described the subject as a very quiet man who was methodical in his habits and an excellent tenant. He always appeared to be honest and conscientious regarding his work and very liberal in religious matters, as he spoke at

churches of all denominations when requested. He did not mingle with the other three tenants of the apartment building and knew none of the neighbors in the vicinity of his apartment. She had never heard him make any un-American statement or in any way express pro-Axis sympathies.

Stated that the only neighbor who might know the subject was who is employed at Joseph's Square Deal Jewelry Store on Wyoming areas.

of the University of Scranton 331 Wyoming Avenue, Turnished the Tollowing information:

The subject was employed as a professor and head of the English Department at the University in September, 1936. He had previously taught for about seven years at the Catholic University in Washington, D. C. He was a conscientious and industrious worker but too idealistic for presenting practical problems to his classes.

stated that many might consider his statements pro-German but that he believed his opinions were motivated by an altruistic temperament rather than a sympathy for Germany. On one occasion on December 8, 1942, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, APP made the statement to his class that the United States had so handled the Japanese question that our actions provoked Japan to attack us. On this occasion APP was reprimanded by the other members of the faculty and cautioned to use more discretion in his remarks.

States into the war, he had had many heated discussions with APP regarding the international situation. In all these discussions APP took the position that Germany, having a better cultural background, was entitled to give the invaded countries the benefit of this culture. APP did not approve of using force to thrust upon the invaded countries the civilization of Germany. He often praised England and the United States for their high type civilization and on many occasions stated that "the country that has the most bath tubs will win the war."

has received recent letters from the subject which bear a rubber stamped "Blessed are the peacemakers." described the subject as a poet who lived an introvert life but liked to attract attention by making startling remarks and by writing his opinions, which often differed from the public opinion of the time.

He did not want to be drafted for the Armed Forces; but under his philosophy, he could not be a conscientious objector as he felt the laws of the land should govern rather than the individual desires of each citizen. who was a felle processor at the time he was there, was

San Antonio, Texas.

Suggested that

would be able to furnish additional

University of

Scranton, furnished the following information:

He had worked with the subject as a member of the faculty at Scranton University and had engaged in many discussions with the subject prior to our entry in the war. He described the subject as "pro-German but not pro-Nazi." In these discussions the subject took the position that the English people were the most highly civilized and intelligent people in the world and that Germany was second in culture and civilization. He also praised the United States for its development of scientific inventions. It was the subject's opinion, as mentioned in these discussions, that England and America would defeat Germany in the event there was a war as they were more intellectual and had reached a higher degree of civilization than Germany and her allies had attained. Stated that the subject based all his reasoning on the superior intelligence of peoples and the degree to which they had advanced themselves in obtaining comfort and the necessities of life. He had heard the subject make statements which might be considered pro-German; but in his opinion, these statements were based upon the subject's theory that Germany, being a more highly civilized country than Poland or Gzechoslovakia, was entitled to govern and assist the less intellectual nations.

He did not want to be drafted for military service as he felt that the use of force by any nation was improper way to spread culture and enlightenment. Under his theories, it was proper for him to serve in the Armed Forces, as this was demanded by law, but he did not want to advance himself to a rank of an officer as this effort on his own part would be a compromise of his position as a pacifist.

Scranton, furnished the lollowing informations

at the University of

He advised that he had been associated with the subject on the faculty at the University of Scranton and was an associate editor with him on a literary publication known as "Catholic Best Sellers." They had many discussions prior to the entry of the United States in the war, during which time APP defended the Axis powers. He did not condone the use of force by the Axis but explained that the Treaty of Versailles and various trade agreements had reduced Germany to a state of poverty. He at all times expressed a desire for the Allies to win the war with the Axis as such a victory would be the only way that true culture could be spread among the nations. It was opinion that the subject was not pro-German but rather attempted to take an international view of the war based on the rights of all countries to have a decent living.

explained that on one occasion Dr. APP had written a review for Juan Sizinbeck's book, "The Moon is Down," which criticized STEINBECK as a spreader of a propaganda which would make all civilians in occupied countries murderers and executioners. APP had indicated that if STEINBECK'S philosophy had been followed through, the German civilians would kill American soldiers in the army of occupation in the event Germany is defeated. In a subsequent issue of this publication, wrote a dissenting review.

a neighbor of the subject when he had an apartment at the above address. She described him as an excellent neighbor who never interfered with the rights of others. She stated that he did not mingle with any of the other tenants and was well liked although not very well known. She could furnish no other pertinent information.

secretary of the Commercial Association of Scranton, Connell Building, Scranton, Pennsylvania, advised that the credit record of the subject was satisfactory. She furnished other background information which has been set forth above in this report.

Police Department, Scranton, Pennsylvania, advised that they had no record of the subject.

The following description of the subject was secured from his Selective Service file:

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146 Davis Court, San Antonio, Texas

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Marital Status:

Selective Service:

Single

Professor, Incarnate Word College,

San Antonio, Texas

Registered Local Draft Board No. 6,

Scranton, Pa. Order No. 10325 Serial No. T770

U. S. Army service - inducted

September 11, 1942 at Wilkes-Barre, Pa.

Honorable discharge March 12, 1943,

Camp Claiborne, La. Serial No. 33353746

No leads are being set forth in this report, except the one to the Cincinnati Field Division, as it is not known how extensive an investigation the office of origin contemplates in this case.

- REFERRED UPON COMPLETION TO THE OFFICE OF ORIGIN -

### August 9, 1946

#### PR: AUSTIN J. APP

The Biographical Encyclopedia of the World carries the following biography of the captioned individual:

Austin J. App was born May 24, 1902 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the son of August H. and Katherine Obermaier App. He was educated at St. Francis Seminary in Misconsin, receiving an A.B. Degree in 1924. In 1926 app received an M.A. Degree from the Catholic University of America, Mashington, D. C. In 1929 he was awarded a Ph.D. by this latter university.

From 1929 until 1935 pp was an instructor in English at Catholic University. He was a professor of English and Head of the Department at the University of Scranton, Scranton, Pennsylvania from 1935 until 1942.

From eptember, 1942 until March, 1943, he served with the United States Army Corps of Engineers, receiving an Honorable Discharge in the latter year.

App was employed as an Administrative Assistant in the Personnel Division of the Jaeger Machine Company from 1933 until probably early 1946.

App is the author of "Lancelot in English Literature," published in 1929, as well as articles in the Catholic Educational Review, the Catholic Library World, the Catholic World, and many others. He is an associate editor of Best Sellers, a biweekly review.

TJMc/dm

![](https://samisdat.in/user/pages/03.books/1999%20-%20FBI%20File%20100-210108%20-%20Austin%20J.%20App/read/_page_12_Picture_9.jpeg?g-b5914282)

| SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS 9/25/46 8/20,22/46; 9/11-13,16,19/16 AUSTIN JOSEPH APP, was., August Joseph APP (True Name), Austin J. App SYNOPSIS OF FACTS: P/10/17 Austin J. App SUBJect was born 5/24/02 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin of German extraction. AB from St. Francis Seminary, St. Francis, Wisconsin, 1924. Received Knights of Columbus scholarship to Catholic University, Washington, D. C. where received MA. 1926 and Ph.D. 1929. Employed as instructor in English, Catholic University 1925 to 1935; head of English Department, Scranton University, Scranton, Pa., 1935 to 1942. Traveled in Europe, Canada and Mexico and taught at Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa during summers. Served in US Army 9/11/42 to 3/12/43 when honorable discharged as Private at Camp Claiborn Louisiana to accept employment in essential war industry. Subsequent to discharge employed by Jaegers Manufacturing Company, Columbus, Ohio, manufacturers of farm machinery. Since September, 1944, has been Professor of English in Incarnate Word College, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio. APP reported to be strict moralist, disciplinarian, devout Catholic, uncompromising in ideals and ethical principles. Alleged to suffer from "political paranoia", a fanticism with regard to internationa affairs. Has little knowledge of history, is argumentative and ethical principles. Professor of the World War # 2 was strongly | AUSTIN JOSEPH APP, was., August Joseph App (True Name), Austin J. App SYNOPSIS OF FACTS: C. J. J. J. J. J. J. J. J. J. J. J. J. J. | REPORT MADE AT | DATE WHEN MADE | PERIOD FOR | REPORT MADE BY | b7C |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| AUSTIN JOSEPH APP, was., August Joseph App (True Name), Austin J. App SYNOPSIS OF FACTS: Subject was born 5/24/02 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin of German extraction. AB from St. Francis Seminary, St. Francis, Wisconsin, 1924. Received Knights of Columbus scholarship to Catholic University, Washington, D. C. where received MA. 1926 and Ph.D. 1929. Employed as instructor in English, Catholic University 1925 to 1935; head of English Department, Scranton University, Scranton, Pa., 1935 to 1942. Traveled in Europe, Canada and Mexico and taught at Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa during summers. Served in US Army 9/11/42 to 3/12/43 when honorable discharged as Private at Camp Claiborn Louisiana to accept employment in essential war industry. Subsequent to discharge employed by Jaegers Manufacturing Company, Columbus, Ohio, manufacturers of farm machinery. Since September, 1944, has been Professor of English in Incarnate Word College, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio. APP reported to be strict moralist, disciplinarian, devout Catholic, uncompromising\\nin ideals and ethical principles. Alleged to suffer from "political paranoia", a fandicism with regard to internationa affairs. Has little knowledge of history, is argumentative and stubborn in views. Prior to World War # 2 was strongly | AUSTIN JOSEPH APP, was., Angust Joseph App (True Name), Austin J. App OTHERWAY SYNOPSIS OF FACTS: Subject was born 5/24/02 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin of German extraction. AB from St. Francis Seminary, St. Francis, Wisconsin, 1924. Received Knights of Columbus scholarship to Catholic University, Washington, D. C. where received MA 1926 and Ph.D. 1929. Employed as instructor in English, Catholic University 1925 to 1935; head of English Department, Scranton University, Scranton, Pa., 1935 to 1942. Traveled in Europe, Canada and Mexico and taught at Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa during summers. Served in US Army 9/11/42 to 3/12/43 when honorable discharged as Private at Camp Claibon Louisiana to accept employment in essential war industry. Since September, 1944, has been Professor of English in Incarnate Word College, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Texas. Resi | SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS | 9/25/46 | 8/20,22/46; |  | mrk |
| Subject was born 5/24/02 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin of German extraction. AB from St. Francis Seminary, St. Francis, Wisconsin, 1924. Received Knights of Columbus scholarship to Catholic University, Washington, D. C. where received MA 1926 and Ph.D. 1929. Employed as instructor in English, Catholic University 1925 to 1935; head of English Department, Scranton University, Scranton, Pa., 1935 to 1942. Traveled in Europe, Canada and Mexico and taught at Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa during summers. Served in US Army 9/11/42 to 3/12/43 when honorable discharged as Private at Camp Claiborn Louisiana to accept employment in essential war industry. Subsequent to discharge employed by Jaegers Manufacturing Company, Columbus, Ohio, manufacturers of farm machinery. Since September, 1944, has been Professor of English in Incarnate Word College, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio. APP reported to be strict moralist, disciplinarian, devout Catholic, uncompromising in ideals and ethical principles. Alleged to suffer from "political paranoia", a fanticism with regard to internationa affairs. Has little knowledge of history, is argumentative and stubborn in views. Frior to World War # 2 was strongly | Subject was born 5/24/02 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin of German extraction. AB from St. Francis Seminary, St. Francis, Wisconsin, 1924. Received Knights of Columbus scholarship to Catholic University, Washington, D. C. where received MA 1926 and Ph.D. 1929. Employed as instructor in English, Catholic University 1925 to 1935; head of English Department, Scranton University, Scranton, Pa., 1935 to 1942. Traveled in Europe, Canada and Mexico and taught at Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa during summers. Served in Us Army 9/11/42 to 3/12/43 when honorable discharged as Private at Camp Claiborn Louisiana to accept employment in essential war industry. Subsequent to discharge employed by Jaegers Manufacturing Company, Columbus, Ohio, manufacturers of farm machinery. Since September, 1944, has been Professor of English in Incarnate Word College, San Antonio, Texas. Residence 316 San Pedro Avenue, San Antonio, Improved to be strict moralist, disciplinarian, devout Catholic, uncompromising in ideals and ethical principles. Alleged to suffer from "political paranoia", a fandicism with regard to internationa affairs. Has little knowledge of history, is argumentative and stubborn in views. Prior to World War # 2 was strongly non-interventionist and extremely critical of US foreign policy. Stated US provoked Japan into attacking. Professed pacifism but justified at lacts of Army service unhappy in Army and sought discharge to take defense job antie soldier wrote letter to Washington newspaper advocating a negotiated peace. Wrote adverse reviews of STEINBECK'S "THE MON Is DOWN", and Peters The Time Is Now" Wrote article | AUSTIN JOSEPH A August Joseph A Austin J. App | PP, was., pp (True Name) | \#TT \\ (10,10,10,10,10,10,10,10,10,10,10,10,10,1 | SPECIAL INQUIRY WAN DEPARTMENT | 1.07 |
|  | policy. Stated US provoked Japan into attacking. Professed pacifism but justified all acts of Axis aggression, criticisi Nazi regime only on suppression of Catholic cherics in German Considered raising conscientious objection to Military service but beceme resigned to Army service. (as unhappy in Army and sought discharge to take defense job) unile soldier wrote letter to Washington newspaper advocating a negotiated peace. Wrote adverse reviews of STEINBECK'S "THE MOON IS DOWN", and PAPPROVED AND SPECUAL AGENT DO NOT WRITE IN THE SOCIETY OF THE TIME IS NOW!" APPROVED AND SPECUAL AGENT DO NOT WRITE IN THE SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME IS NOW!" POR WARRED DO NOT WRITE IN THE SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF THE TIME SOCIETY OF | PHE 70 0: 0 7 A REC'D 1 - 7 - 64 JAN 22 1964 PULL 007 007 | extraction. Al Wisconsin, 1926 Catholic University 1926 and Ph.D. Catholic University Europe, Canada Dubuque, Iowa (3/12/43 when he Louisiana to ac Subsequent to Company, Columb Since September Trearnate Word | B from St. France. 4. Received Karsity, Washington 1929. Employersity 1925 to resity, Scranton ada and Mexico during summers conorable discharge employment on the country, Ohio, manur, 1944, has been suppleaded to the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of the country of th | ncis Seminary, St. nights of Columbus ton, D. C. where re\\ned as instructor in 1935; head of Engli n, Pa., 1935 to 194 and taught at Lora Served in US Arm arged as Private at nt in essential war byed by Jaegers Man\\nufacturers of farm seen Professor of En | Francis, scholarship to ceived MA. English, sh Department, 2. Traveled s College, y 9/11/42 to Camp Claiborn industry. ufacturing machinery. glish in |

![](https://samisdat.in/user/pages/03.books/1999%20-%20FBI%20File%20100-210108%20-%20Austin%20J.%20App/read/_page_14_Picture_0.jpeg?g-b5914282)

Vamerican War Policies and Catholic Traditions" published in the Catholic World, October, 1944, criticising American policy of demanding unconditional surrender. In reply to editorial in San Antonio Express, 11/1/44 which pointed to Germany's enforced starvation of conquered peoples, APP disagreed and attributed starvation in France to the Allied blockage of Europe, Allied bombings and activities of the French Underground and states more people died of starvation in Allied occupied territory than Axis occupied territory. In May, 1945, protested an order forbiddin German Prisoners of War using German straight arm and other Party salutes. In address at commencement, St. Mary's University, San Antonio, June, 1945, demanded a "just and honorable" peace for Germany and stated atrocities should have no effect on final peace settlement.) In pamphlet PRAVISHING THE WOMEN OF CONQUERED EUROPE", May, 1946, APP states troops under EISENHAUER'S command raped more women in one week in one city than troops under HITLER'S command in four years in all of France. Further states German troops in behavior toward women were most correct and decent in the whole history of warfare. As a result of last pamphlet Catholic Church authorities considered dismissing APP, however to avoid embroiling Incarnate Word College in possible Academic freedom controversy, admonished APP who promised to desist from further political writings.

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#### REFERENCE:

Bureau File # 100-210108.

Bureau letter dated August 9, 1946.

## DETAILS:

Referenced Bureau letter enclosed a photostatic copy of a pamphlet written by AUSTIN J. APP, entitled, "RAVISHING THE WOMEN OF CONQUERED EUROPE" as well as a memorandum reflecting information concerning APP obtained from the Biographical Encyclopedia of the World. It was requested that the background and activities of APP be discreetly ascertained.

A review of the San Antonio files reflects the following information concerning APP obtained from Confidential Informant

Records of Local Draft Board # 6, Scranton, Pennsylvania, reflect that APP was born May 24, 1902 at Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He secured an A.B. degree from St. Francis Seminary in 1924. He received an M.A. degree from the Catholic University in 1926 and a Ph.D from the same institution in 1929. He was employed as Professor at Catholic University in 1927 to 1935 and as Professor of English at the University of Scranton, Scranton, Pennsylvania from September 1936, to September, 1942.

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He taught at summer session of 1942 at Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa. He was inducted into the United States Army at Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania on September 11, 1942, and was honorably discharged March 12, 1943 at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana as over age. His Army Serial number was 33353746.

According to Confidential Informant fellow professors at Scranton University stated APP is/extreme idealist, pacifist and altruist. He was described as pro-German but not pro-Nazi. He was stated to be a great admirer of the German and English peoples as they are more intelligent and cultured than other Europeans. He felt that nations with the highest type of civilization should rule less civilized nations. He made many statements prior to the entry of the United States into the war which might be construed as pro-German. He had a satisfactory credit record and no criminal record at the Scranton Folice Department.

Confidential Informant advised that APP had reportedly taken graduate courses at Oxford University, Oxford, England, and had visited Mexico, Panama and Canada. It was stated that he was called before the school authorities at Scranton University because of the subversive character of his lectures and on December 8, 1942 he reportedly addressed his class as follows: "America is to be blamed for our war with Japan because Japan is like a dog which if teased long enough will finally turn and bite you". He reportedly made statements that the Germans were a superior race and that America would do better to ally itself with Germany rather than England.

After his discharge from the United States Army, according to Confidential Informant APP was employed at the Jaeger Machine Company, 550 West Spring, Columbus, Onio for about six months when he secured a position teaching English Composition at St. Mary of the Springs College, Columbus, Ohio.

According to Confidential Informant of the University of Scranton, 331 Wyoming Avenue, Scranton, Pennsylvania, stated that on December 8, 1942, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, APP made the statement to his class that the United States had so handled the Japanese question that our actions provoked Japan to attacking us. On this occasion APP was reprimended by and other members of the faculty and cautioned to use more discretion in his remarks. The portedly advised that prior to the entry of the United States into the war ne had had many heated discussions with APP regarding the international situation. In all of these discussions APP took the position that Germany, having a better cultural background, was entitled to give the envaded countries the benefit of this culture. APP did not approve of using force to thrust upon the invaded countries the civilization of Germany. He often praised England and the United States for their high type of civilization and on many occasions stated that "the country that has the most bath tubs will win the war".

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stated that he had received letters in late 1944 and early 1945 from the subject which bear a rubber stamped "Blessed are the Peace Makers".

described APP as a poet who lived an introvert life, would like to attract attention by making startling remarks and by writing his opinions which often differed from the public opinion of the time.

Stated that APP did not want to be drafted for the Armed Forces, but under his philosophy he could not be a conscientious objector as he felt the laws of the land should govern rather than the individual desires of each citizen.

University of Scranton who termed APP as pro-German but not pro-Nazl. stated that in many discussions with the subject prior to our entry into the war that APP took the position that the English people were the most highly civilized and intelligent people in the world and that Germany was second in culture and civilization. He praised the United States for its development of scientific inventions. He predicted that England and America would defeat Germany in the event there was a war as they were more intellectual and had reached a higher degree of civilization than Germany and her allies had obtained.

Subject based all of his reason on the superior intelligence of peoples and the degree to which they had advanced themselves in obtaining comfort and the necessities of life.

advised that APP held a theory that Germany, being a more civilized country than Poland or Czechoslovakia, was entitled to govern and assist less intellectual nations.

Confidential informant summarized information he had developed concerning APP as follows: He stated that APP speaks German, French and Spanish, and is reported to have a noticeably German accent. He is pleasant, gentlemanly, likeable, scrupulous in personal dealings, shrewd, thrifty and practical in business matters with a reputation as a moralist and disciplinarian, and is a confirmed bachelor.

APP is reported to have made improper advances toward young girls whose company he has constantly sought. He is a devout Catholic of Mid-western background and is said to be uncompromising in his tenets, high ideals and ethical principles. He is a dilligent student of English literature, innately brilliant and dilettante in other fields. He is alleged to suffer from political paranoia, a fixation or fanaticism with regard to international affairs. His feverently held ideas arise from a strong pro-German bias, colored by his background of religion and unrestrained by any profound knowledge of history.

X

He is argumentative and controversial in nature, stubborn in his views and persuasive in classes at Scranton University and in discussions with faculty members he is reported to have been strongly non-interventionist, to have been extremely critical of United States foreign policy, although originally a staunch "new dealer" going so far as to state that the United States had provoked Japan into attacking. APP is alleged to have been inconsistent in his professed pacifism in that he justified all acts of Axis aggression, castigating the Nazi regime only on the score of the suppression of Catholic clerics in Germany. He was reprimanded by authorities at Scranton University and was reported to have been less vociferous after Pearl Harbor but no acquaintance believed that his views had changed or that he would cease to expound them.

According to Confidential Informant APP is reported to have considered raising a conscientious objection, but later to have become resigned to serving in the Army, to have been unhappy during his service and to have offered a party \\$500.00 to get him a defense job in order that he could be discharged. While a soldier APP submitted a letter to the editor of a Washington newspaper advocating a negotiated peace. He is reported to be sincere and candid in his views and to believe himself a loyal and patriotic American speaking for the country's best interest. Intimates allege that APPS fundamental loyalty is to the United States; that it would not be his nature to be furtive or underhanded. It was noted by this informant that subject had expressed his opinions generally only among persons of his own intellectual level.

Confidential informant Interviewed

Nashington, D. C. in June, 1943. APP lived in
Several years while an instructor at Catholic University.

APP to

after an

which APP nad made in connection with playing the stock market.

advised that APP was very peculiar; that he did not drink or smoke, and did not spend one cent on recreation. He did not like to be called "GUS" so assumed the name of AUSTIN while

advised that APP always had plenty of young girls on the string and proposed to four of the string and the considered APP as morally all right, but stated that he had heard that APP had lead several girls to believe he was going to marry them, and then left them flat. He stated that while APP was in the Army he was very unhappy as he thought that he was too good for the Army. During this period he talked only of a way to get out of the Army.

especially likeable, conceited and sellish. One stated that APP had made improper advances to her and to every girl he went out with, many of whom he proposed to although believed that he did not intend to marry any of them.

70\.

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AL XIII

SA-105-76

She stated that about Christmas, 1942, APP tried to dissuade her husband from applying for a commission in the Navy, insisting that anyone was silly to volunteer who would not otherwise be drafted. APP claimed to be too intelligent to be "toting a gun" and offered \\$500.00 to get him a defense job in his contracting business.

quently joined the Seabees. (5/1) (1) uparature and trief?

Catholic University, Washington; D. C. in June, 1943. Stated that he was acquainted with APP since 1925 when APP came to Catholic University as a graduate student, staying until 1935 as an instructor in English. He stated that APP was a hard working and conscientious student. He achieved excellent grades through intensive study rather than innate brilliance. His services as an instructor were satisfactory both at Catholic University and at Loras College in Iowa, where he taught during summer sessions but APP was let go because it was felt that he did not show promise of maturing into an A-1 educator.

stated that APP was the butt of many a joke among the faculty and the student body because he was such a complete moralist; he was over strict in disciplinary matters and inveighed against the evils of smoking and drinking. Stated that during the Fall of 1942 when APP was stationed at Ft. Belvoir Virginia, he wrote a letter to the editor of a Washington newspaper which was published over his name with his Army serial number and station, advocating recognition of equality of war guilt.

Stated that APP f ancies himself an authority on international affairs but his background is such that his views result from almost total ignorance of modern history.

stated that APP in recent years had become quite anti-British; was a fanatic about the inequities of the Versailles Treaty and held that there is some justification for German aggression. He stated that APP is by no means a crank, but he is an extremist and an idealist; that he apparently hit upon what he believes to be the truth and is sincere and indiscreet enough to feel it his duty to speak his mind.

Maryland,

Stated that APP was not a good teacher; that he expected too much from his students and had an atrocious German accent. In all other fields but English literature, stated that APP is a dilettante and in recent years has displayed a great interest in international affairs. He stated that he had been astonished at the tenor of some of the articles APP had had published in the Scranton News. He mentioned APP'S letter to the Washington Post, advocating a negotiated peace which he termed the height of indiscretion for a soldier. He stated that he believed that APP is convinced that England and the United States are not free of war guilt, a foolish idea which he would not entertain if he had a more thorough knowledge of history. He stated that APP is a devout Catholic; is very narrow in his Catholicity which prevents him from being a top notch scolar.

X

He stated that APP wrote one article entitled, THOMAS MANN, CHRISTIAN NOVELIST published in the July, 1939 issue of the agnificat, a Catholic magazine which is in praise of THOMAS MANN, an arch enemy of the Nazi regime. Stated that APP was non-interventionist along the lines of WHEELER and LINDBERG, and that he has not changed his mind since Pearl Harbor. He thinks he is a great patriot, acting in the best interest of the United States. Predicted that APP would continue to be adverse to war and to express nimself to all who would listen because he is naturally imprudent and indiscreet.

John Hopkins Applied Physics Laboratory, 8621 Georgia avenue, Silver Spring, Maryland. And known APP for about as classmates at Catholic University, and as reliew faculty members thereaster. informed that APP'S father is a retired farmer; that the family was never wealthy and that APP worked his way through school. APP'S younger brother, as in the United States Army. APP traveled to Germany and Czechoslovakia in 1921 and has visited England three times. Stated that APP considered the name "GUS" shortened form of the name AUGUST, undignified for a professor, so he adopted the name AUSTIN. He stated that he had often argued with APP about international affairs on which APP considers himself an authority, despite the fact that his background lends no weight to that idea.

asserted that APP is a pacifist and a non-interventionist. He was originally a staunch "new dealer" on the domestic issues and only recently differed with the present administration. He dalls himself a Wisconsin Progressive and sometimes a Christian Socialist, but resents being termed a Socialist. He has always been critical of the present administration's foreign policy, claiming that it was war bent.

According to APP claimed to have had an article in type at the time of Pearl Harbor, prophesying that the United States would goad Japan into attacking us. Stated that APP sincerely believes he is a great patriot and that in talking and writing his type of political stuff he has the interest of the country at heart. He is positive that he is right and always holds his convictions with a religious fervor.

Confidential Informant interviewed United States Navy,
Navy Building, Washington. D. Was a fellow faculty member
of subject at Catholic University? Asserted that ethical principles are\\neverything to APP, and that sometimes APP cannot see underlying major issued
because of quibbling over superficial facts. He stated that he had argued

CONTRACT OF STREET

with him on practically every subject and had disagreed with him on most. He stated that APP'S mentality is the type which goes in circles around the topic. He is argumentative and immature. He stated that he believed APP'S attitude toward the war is derived from his fundamental Christian thesis that war is wrong and from an argumentative predisposition to take the side of the under dog. He stated that APP may unconsciously be inclined to make excuses for Germany because of his background, but he did not believe APP consciously progerman. According to APP, the war was not entirely Germany's fault and it was no business of the United States. He followed the LINDBERG - WHEELER - NYE school of thought and was considered by seeing a typical midwestern Isolationist. He stated that APP isorutary trank and truthful in everything; that is the most indiscreet person that the knew, and that he would always say exactly what he thought, and insist upon the constitutional right of free speech. (5)

He stated that APP is intellectually honest and courageous, but that he simply does not know history; further he is stubborn and there is very little chance of changing his mind.

Washington, D. C. who was acquainted with APP at the University of Scranton. Stated that APP was the object of many jibes at Scranton because of his various financial interests and because he had his hand out for every dollar and yet was Socialistic in many ways, staunchly insisting that no man should be allowed to earn over \\$5,000.00 a year.

Another point on which APP was subject to ridicule among his colleagues was his habit of dating young girls. It was not infrequent for him to be the rival of one of his students for the attentions of some young girl.

At faculty meetings or at other gatherings, according to APP was contraversial and loved to spout his ideas even on subjects not in his line. His attitude toward the war and international affairs was well known and differed with that of most of his colleagues. He was strongly against war and our participation in the war and his attitude did not change after Pearl Harbor. His major fault was in not toning down his talk when his issue was lost.

of subject at the University of Scranton, and while there taught stated that APP has "political paranola", a lixation about international affairs which became apparent in 1937 during the Spanish Civil War. (51) (1)

•

X

APP justified the intervention of the Axis Powers in Spain. His attitude was completely colored by partiality for the Axis Powers, which, according to belief, stemmed from his German ancestory. He purported to be a rachist and insisted that we should not become involved in war or even in 1940 to increase our armaments because if attacked we could train a huge army over night and in the meantime the money would be better spent on education. insisted that the cultured nation would always beat the uncultured nation.

APP stated that he believed all force was wrong and that if he were assaulted he would not resist. He insisted that it was better for a nation to live under the domination of an aggressor than to spend itself in armed resistance. Despite his professed hatred of force he always justified the aggression of the Axis; Italy was right in the conquest of Ethiopia; Czechoslovakia had not allowed the German minority to rule and thus invited and deserved invasion; POLAND was guilty of provocative atrocities, and even Belgium, according to APP, was wrong.

stated that APP was completely ignorant of modern European history, and refused to learn or recognize facts in variance with his conclusions. No amount of logic could change his position on a particular issue and he was often inconsistent. He admitted that the Hitler regime was in the wrong in mistreating Catholic Clerics and surpressing religion in Germany; yet on the day that news came that German aircraft had bombed a famous Spanish shrine on a festive day and had slaughtered many devout Catholic Bosque Loyalists, APP countered BOSQUES were hypocrites.

stated that he noticed that students in his history classes frequently quoted APP'S views and he, and did his best to combat these views. After Pearl Harbor APP was less outspoken although he professed to believe that the United States had no interest in the Pacific and had given Japan no alternative but to attack us.

Confidential Informant advised that APP has had articles published in the Catholic World and the Commonweal on subjects such as Catholic University Teachers and Credit Unions, and literary topics which upon perusal reflect no subversive attitude. He also advised that an examination of Lusk's District of Columbia Assessment Directory Service reflected that APP in 1943 owned three parcels of property in Washington, D. C. assessed at \\$6,125.00, \\$3,764.00, and \\$3,998.00 respectively.

No criminal record nor record in the subversive files of the Metropolitan Police Department, Washington, D. C. was found upon examination in June, 1943.

X

Confidential Informant interviewed of the University of Scranton, and obtained the following information in addition to that set forth above as coming from (S) (S) (U) (u) for 123 45%, 7 declaration

APP while at Scranton University, was a member of the following organizations: Council of English Teachers; Modern Language Association; Catholic Poetry Society; Debating Association of Pennsylvania Colleges and Catholic Library Association

He also stated that APP has several publications to his credit including
"Use of Analogy in Debate", "Religious News in Chaucer", "Poets aren't Sissies,"
"THOMAS MANN, Christian Novelisty" "To Lie or Not to Lie", and "Some Broadway
Plays and their Ideas". (51)(4)(1)

He is a frequent contributor to small Catholic magazines. Also mentioned that in a review of STEINBECK'S "The Moon Is Down" for the Catholic Best Sellers, a mimeographed sheet prepared at the University of Scranton, that APP took the Norwegians to task for not submitting to the German rule. It is noted that the book dealt with the German occupation of Norway.

Confidential Informant reviewed subject's Selective Service file at Local Board # 6, Scranton. Pennsylvania, which reflected that subject stated that he contributes

He also claimed to be taking care of his younger sister's education and to help his parents who are old and no longer working.

It was indicated that he is the oldest of eight brothers and sisters. Confidential Informant interviewed at the University of Scranton in December, 1942. Indeed the following organizational connections of subject: He was a Moderator of the Teachers of English Council in Lackawanne County, Pennsylvania, President of the Chesterton Poetry Society which meets at the University of Scranton, member of the Chamber of Commerce, Director of the Debating Club at the University of Scranton. Dradvised that APP believed in German superiority and placed each nation on a facial ladder: Germany at the top and America on the very top. England, however, was at the bottom of the ladder and Latins are down near the bottom along with the Poles. He considered the Latins immoral and the Poles uncultured.

According to APP considered culture to be the measuring stick of a nation. His theory is that culture predominates over force. Consequently he was opposed to war and is naturally a pacifist.

He expressed his theory that one hundred men with Shakespeare in their hands could defeat 1,000 men with machine guns. He otherwise expressed the same idea by stating that a nation's culture can be determined by the number of bath tubs in the country. He deplored the wasteful spending of money on war, argued against spending money on battleships when the money could be used in building universities.

See Example 1. Out this admiration dimmed because of the President's foreign policy. APP contended President ROOSEVELT had precipitated a calamity on the country by leading it into war.

advised that APP was a frequent contributor to the letters to the Editor column of the Scranton, Pennsylvania newspaper and wrote articles concerning various issues of the day.

Confidential Informant Interviewed a former teacher at the University of Scranton, now manager of the Guild Studios, Scranton, Pennsylvania.

and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the subject started the subject started the magazine "Best Sellons" and subject started the subject started the subject started the subject started the subject started the subject started the subject started the subject started the subject started the subject started the subject started the subject

cation. \[5\]/(4)/4)

ACCORDING to APP submitted a review of STEINBECK'S "The Moon is Down" which deals with the Nazi invasion of Norway from which the following is quoted: "The author's purpose, however, quite clearly is to incite civilians in occupied countries to dynamite, stab and even poison. Of course he means to apply it only, one presumes, to the civilians in Axis occupied countries. But what is sauce for the goose is sauce for the gander. If it is the duty of French women to poison non-offending German Sentinels in France, then it will also be the duty of German women to poison American Sentinels if once again they should be stationed in the Rhineland as in 1919, and then we should brand such civilian tactics in German patrotism by German beastliness".

also stated that APP wrote in regard to PIERRE VAN PAASEN'S "Time Is Now" as follows: "The book is an illogical attempt, based on the assumption that our own national independence and freedom depend on England to scare the American people into a long and certain war in the future. The book has no value, but it will also probably do little harm". (5/16/4)

Scranton, Pennsylvania, APP'S landlady at that place, she had received a letter from her daughter-in-law,

SOVE SEC THE

Fichigan, dated December 27, 1942.

received a letter from Dr. Arr asking that in the event that a teaching position should not be sufficient for his discharge (he is 38) that he get something at the has replied that he could.

- 11 -

62 37c

b71

Confidential Informant also interviewed Pennsylvania. Was a former student at the University of Scranton, and he and APP went to have physical examinations preparatory to induction into the Army on the same day. On the way, according to PP commenced a tirade against the English. He averred that England had got us into the war and that we shouldn't be in the war. He contended that we had better withdraw from the war and that if enough pressure is brought on Congress and the President of the United States they will withdraw from the war.

APP, according to said that when he gets in the army he will write as a soldier and he will "tell them plenty". APP'S argument, according to was that this war was no concern of ours and that we ought to withdraw and let England continue. He maintained that Germany is not against the United States, but is against England and the Jews, and stated that the English and the Jews got us into this war against the will of the people.

Confidential informant interviewed of the Catholic University, Midwestern Extension Course at Loras College, Dubuque, Iowa.

reported that subject had won a sharpshooter's medal with the rifle while in the Army and was an instructor in rifle and was very proud of these accomplishments as he had never shot a gun before he entered the Army.

held APP in high regard. Confidential Informant also interviewed

Loras College.

Stated that APP
was an isolationist and a pacifist, but that arter the Japanese attack on Pearl
Harbor. APP stated that the war was justified on the part of the United States.

noted that APP habitually over-argued his points against the
Jews, but he had never heard him make any real attack against the United States
government or its foreign policy.

who stated that APP had several ill balanced views. APP, according to made flattering remarks about the Germans of the type that Poland got what she deserved from the Germans. (3)(4)(4)

Confidential Informant submitted the information that APP, while in Columbus, Ohio, might have been a member of the Maennerchor Club, but that he could not have been very active in the group. This organization is a German social organization some of whose members were considered to possibly have subversive tendencies but the organization was not generally considered a subversive group.

Confidential Informant advised that while in Columbus subject resided at 75 East Woodruff Avenue, and 3860 Travue Road. While there he purchased a house valued at approximately \\$10,000.00 and assumed a \\$4,000.00 mortgage on another house.

CONFIXENTIAL

# Freedom of Information and Privacy Acts

Subject: Austin J. App

File Number: 100-210108

![](https://samisdat.in/user/pages/03.books/1999%20-%20FBI%20File%20100-210108%20-%20Austin%20J.%20App/read/_page_25_Picture_3.jpeg?g-b5914282)

Federal Bureau of Investigation

## Office Mem ....dum . UNITED S....

GOVERNMENT

TO

Director, Federal Bureau of Investigation

DATE: January 17, 1947

FROM :

Theron L. Caudle, Assistant Attorney General

TLC: VCW: la

SUBJECT:

Austin Joseph App

146-7-76-150

tlc

Reference is made to your memorandum dated December 30, 1946 concerning the above named subject.

The Criminal Division does not desire that investigation of App's activities be made at this time with the view to his prosecution for a violation of the sedition statutes.

5/21/56 S. 6067 MS EPTTO SX - 400 SEPTTO

68 JAN 27 34

DATE S/21/59 BY GOST NY EP FOW

![](https://samisdat.in/user/pages/03.books/1999%20-%20FBI%20File%20100-210108%20-%20Austin%20J.%20App/read/_page_27_Figure_17.jpeg?g-b5914282)

| REPORT MADE AT | DATE WHEN MADE | PERIOD FOR WHICH MADE | REPORT MADE BY |
|---|---|---|---|
| PHILADELPHIA, PA. | JAN 1 2 195 | 11-23,29; | 670 |
| "AMERICA'S NE | W NAZIS" By P | eter T. White | CHARACTER OF CASE INTERNAL SECURITY — G |
|  |  | 20 |  |

| APPROVED AND FORWARDED: | SPECIAL AGENT IN CHARGE | DO NOT WRITE IN THESE | SPACES |
|---|---|---|---|
| copies of this repor | т | / 210108 - |  |
| 3 - New York 3 - Philadelphia (1 | file 100-12308) | 55 FEB 1 1950 | GLINAL A LAND |
| 13 |  |  | ON ON |

of ownership for this residence.

The November, 1949 issue of "The Malist", a mimeographed publication published by Catholic laymen in Meriden, Connecticut lists Dr. AUSTIN J. APP as a Professor of English at LaSalle College, Philadelphia, Pa.

On Page 1, paragraph 2 of the November issue of this publication there appears an article entitled "Food, Clothes and Homes in Germany, 1949". This article indicates that APP has just returned from a three-month tour of Germany, Austria and Italy.

In the 4-1-49 special edition of the newspaper "Common Sense" which is listed as "the nation's anti-Communist newspaper" and is edited in Union, New Jersey, there appeared an article on page 1, column 3 entitled "A Fair Deal for Germany", the author of which was AUSTIN J. APr. This article sets out a three-point plan through which the author believes Germany will obtain a fair deal. First the author indicates that the United States demand full integrity of German boundaries as set out in the Atlantic Charter. Second, APr believes that it is this country's duty to minimize "the awful calamity of the fifteen million East and Sudeten and Balkan Germans expelled from their homes and totally robbed, again with the complicity of our new deal Marxist controlled government." The third point taken by the author is that dismantling of industry in Germany should immediately be discontinued. In this respect APr stated that "In October, 1947 almost three years after the war, our government while telling the American people to send five billion a year to Europe to revive production, collaborated with the British and French in listing 918 German plants for destruction, only 338 of which were listed as war plants. Since then many have been destroyed".

In the issue of "The Malist" previously listed, in the article appearing on page 1, paragraph 2 are set out in great detail statistics regarding food, clothing and homes in Germany as they appeared during his visit during 1949. In summary of this article are stated that the dominant impression that he received after spending three months in the vanquish countries was that in spite of the devastation and casualties of the war and the injustices, expulsions, dismantling, war prisoner slave labor of the post-war years, that Germany, austria and Italy were coming to life again, painfully but surely. He said that in mestern Germany the victors, while still a long way from the atlantic Charter, are slowly shaking off their "Morgenthauism" and that in proportion hope and reconstruction are "pushing out their tender shoots".

In the same edition of "The Malist" on page 7 there appears an article entitled "The Expellee Froblem as a Challenge to Catholicism." This article is a summarization of a talk made by AUSTIN J. AFF at the Kelping Haus in Fhiladelphia on October 5, 1949. According to the article, AFF advised the

group the staggering wrong to the twelve million surviving expellees can only be righted when countries behind the iron curtain grant them the right of self determination and restore their homes and homeland to them. The article indicated that APP believed that this could not come about until world Catholicism has persuaded Catholics of these countries to be willing to make good this enormous wrong in which they have, unfortunately, abetted the Belsheviks. The article advised that Dr. APP requested Catholics in America to rush relief to the expellees of Germany.

000 67C 67D

of the Nationalist Action League whose neacquarters are in Philadelphia, in January, 1949 discussed the distinctions between Nationalism and provincialism with Professor APP and that during this same month invited APP to attend a small gathering during the early part of rebruary, 1949 to further discuss a Nationalist Program from a philosophical viewpoint. The informant did not know if APP attended this meeting:

the latter according to the informant closely associated with the Mationalist action League, made arrangements to meet with Dr. arr at his residence to discuss the publication of some Mationalist literature in pocket edition form. The informant stated that as unable to attend this discussion but that and professor arr and meet in regard to this matter on December 19. 1949.

The Nationalist action League is listed as a subversive organization coming within the purview of executive Order 9835.

- REFERRED UPON COMPLETION TO THE OFFICE - OF ORIGIN

![](https://samisdat.in/user/pages/03.books/1999%20-%20FBI%20File%20100-210108%20-%20Austin%20J.%20App/read/_page_31_Picture_0.jpeg?g-b5914282)

## U.S. Department of Justice

Federal Bureau of Investigation

SECRET

In Reply, Please Refer to File No. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania October 3, 1984

AUSTIN JOSEPH APP, aka August Joseph App, Austin J. App, Austin App

![](https://samisdat.in/user/pages/03.books/1999%20-%20FBI%20File%20100-210108%20-%20Austin%20J.%20App/read/_page_31_Picture_7.jpeg?g-b5914282)

This communication is classified "Secret" in its entirety.

AUSTIN JOSEPH APP is a United States citizen of German extraction. In 1975, he received the "European Peace Prize of the German National Newspaper (DNZ)." An article he wrote entitled, "A Fair Deal for Germany," appeared in the April 1, 1949 edition of "COMMON SENSE," and in the November, 1949 issue of "THE MALIST." He authored an article entitled, "Food, Clothes and Homes in Germany, 1949" after returning from a three-month tour of Germany, Austria and Italy. APP spoke at the KELPING HAUS OF PHILADELPHIA in October, 1949, his topic being, "The Expeller Problem as a Challenge to Catholicism."

Investigation conducted in 1945 disclosed that APP was described by fellow professors as an extreme idealist, pacificist and altruist. He was described as pro-German, but not pro-Nazi. Prior to World War II, he was described as a non-interventionist and extremely critical of United States foreign policy. (51)(4) (u) declassified feature, (then 2-11-68)

No further information has been developed concerning APP since 1949. His last known residence is Takoma Park, Maryland and he is lastly known to have been a Professor at LA SALLE COLLEGE, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.

DECLASSIFIED BY SPI A 66 LM

SECKET

CLASSIFYED BY G-3 DECLASSIFY ON OADR SPI AG GLM

This document contains neither recommendations nor conclusions of the FBI. It is the property of the FBI and is loaned to your agency. It and its contents are not to be distributed outside your agency.

ATJ, TO CAT AT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A CAT A C

100-210108-

ENCLOSURE

white market

#### AUSTIN JOSEPH APP

199-09-7789

Marital Status Sir

Criminal Record None

Military Service U.S. Army from September 11, 1942

to March 12, 1943 - received honor-

Claiborne Touisiana

Claiborne, Louisiana

Employment

1925 to 1935 Professor of English

at Catholic university

1935 to 1942 Head of English Department

SCRANTON UNIVERSITY

Scranton, PA

Traveled in Europe, Canada and Mexico and taught at LAROS COLLEGE, Dubuque, Iowa during summers.

September 11, 1942 to March 12, 1943 - U.S. Army. Received honorable discharge as Private at Camp Claiborne, Louisiana. Army serial number 33353746.

Subsequent to discharge, employed by JAEGERS MANUFACTURING COMPANY, 550 West Spring, Columbus, Ohio - manufacturers of farm machinery.

1944 Professor of English in

INCARNATE WORD COLLEGE,

San Antonio, Texas

1949 Professor of English

LA SALLE COLLEGE Philadelphia, PA

A recent check of the COMMONWEALTH LAW ENFORCEMENT ASSISTANCE NETWORK (CLEAN) was negative relative to motor vehicles or registration.

SECRET

---

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