SOE WAR DIARIES JANUARY 1945 PART I
I - GENERAL
POSITIONS IN THE FIELD
SD ultimatum to Rummy
On January 10th it was reported to RUMMY (Bert de Goede) that TINE (Dini Gaazenbek, courier), who together with CRIBBAGE (van Duyn) had been
transferred for interrogation to The Hague, was in Rotterdan to contact the KP (1).
Under conditions of extreme security, TINE (Dini Gaazenbeek) was brought to see RUMMY. She told him a disquieting story. She had been interrogated by
a certain HAUBROCK who had released her with an ultimatum for RUMMY, concerning whose existence he was evidently aware, in which he threatened
to shoot 30 prisoners held in The Hague if RUMMY did not disclose the locality of his weapon stores. He promised that in return for his information, and
RUMMY’s surrender, all arrested organization members, including RUMMY would be transferred to comfortable quarters in Germany. Should TINE not return
then her lover CRIBBAGE (Arie van Duyn), would immediately be shot.
Courier held: Rummy carries on
TINE was closely questioned by the security group of the KP, which decided that she was not a willing traitor, having been influenced only by her
affection for CRIBBAGE (van Duyn). She was therefore believed when she admitted that the SD knew much of the organization from her, but she had
been instructed to talk by CRIBBAGE, who had managed to whisper to her in the corridor of the SD HQ in The Hague. RUMMY refused to comply with the
SD demands and placed TINE under protective arrest outside Rotterdam. Meanwhile he continued to arrange for the delivery of supplies to the field.
Resistance arsenal captured
On January 14th RUMMY received information that his main arsenal, known as the central weapon magazine, had the previous day been captured by the
Germans. A considerable proportion of the material dropped to him in Holland had been assembled in a barge, the property of the KP, which was located in
the vicinity of The Hague, but which for security reasons was frequently moved.
Barge versus German Platoon
On January 13th, the barge completed one of its periodical moves, returning to a side which had already been used, to find a platoon of 50 Grüne polizie
awaiting it. The crew of the barge had a running fight with the enemy, which ended in the liquidation of the crew and the seizure of arms.
Increasing Carelessness
Resistance groups appeared to be working openly, and one leader of the LO lad listed special hours during which he could be interviewed by any caller.
The underground Press designed a calendar for 1945 which had a cartoon for every month of the year, showing dropping ground, the delivery of
containers and recognizable caricatures of leading underground personalities. This last, however, did not get into print, thanks to RUMMY.
And Poor Leadership
Most of these highly undesirable activities appeared to be due to a complete lack of control by the leaders, the DRIEHOEK being apparently quite unable
to maintain order. In the opinion of those members of the organization who had come to England, this was due to the personalities of its leaders. RUMMY
himself said: “The PRINCE sends orders to the DRIEHOEK who send them to the local commanders who put them in a stove”.
Rummy plans to leave
RUMMY was beginning to feel that the organization in Holland was getting out of hand, and he was laying plans for his temporary return to England,
coaching an instructor FRITS (COURSING, Hoogewerff) to take his place.
New Labour Regulations
Conditions in the field generally were becoming extremely difficult, especially since the Germans had issued a new regulations calling up for forced labour all
men between the ages of 16 and 40. Many men who were unable to obtain food were compelled to report to work in order to support their families. As a
counter-measure DRAUGHTS asked London to supply 200.000 blank identity cards. These were to be used to evade the new system whereby all German
Ausweise - papers granting exemption from forced labour - were to be entered on the holder’s identity card and in the official archives.
PERSONNEL INFILTRATED
SQUEAK (Sjoerd Sjoerdsma), a W/T operator, was dropped on the night of 5/6th January to an EVERT reception committee in Overijssel (2). He remained
in the area for a short time and then acted operator to EDUARD (Hotz), Region 1 Commander for the Overijssel.
STORES DELIVERED
During this month 53 containers and 14 packages were sent to the field (3).
(1) Security report on SOE organizations in Holland, August 1944 - February 1945.
(2) Weekly sitereps No. 64 of 8.1.45
(3) Weekly sitreps for January, 1945
II - RESISTANCE GROUPS
W/T TRAFFIC
BOWLS (GERMAN CONTROLLED?)
London advised BOWLS (4) that the W/T material he had requested had been delivered to the address given by him in The Hague, Would he confirm its
receipt as soon as possible, after which London would start listening on his new signal plan.
PODEX, RUMMY & CRIBBAGE (Contact with CS-6 and RVV)
RUMMY reported that at the moment everything was rather disorganized in his region, owing to the arrest of CRIBBAGE and others. He had done
everything possible to help them, but without success. At the moment they were in prison at Scheveningen (5).
Mystery of Rotterdam “Revolt”
London cabled (6) that a report had been received that the Germans were leaving the island of Dordrecht for Rotterdam, where they feared a revolt. Had
he heard anything about this? If the report were true and referred to a revolt by the civil population then he should do everything possible to prevent it,
otherwise unnecessary bloodshed would result. On the other hand it referred to a revolt of German troops then he should bear in mind that it might be a
German trap to bring resistance forces out in the open. It was suggested that he should do all he could by means of secret propaganda to widen mutual
differences between the Germans, but on no account to use armed force.
Attempt to contact rocket expert
RUMMY was in contact with a person who had worked in Germany as an electro-technician in the Geheimbau department (7). He had left Germany in
November after working in secret underground factories named RICHARD I, II and III in the Sudetenland. He knew everything about rockets and supply
factories and also which breakwaters to attack to put these factories out of action. Could RUMMY send him to liberated Holland so that he might pass on
this information? London cabled (8) that this person should be sent to Brabant as soon as possible, but before he left RUMMY should make a copy of the
information in case the man got caught. RUMMY should be careful “in case something was wrong”. He should advise London when the man left.
(4) 13 to Bowls of 1.1.1945
(5) 197 from Rummy of 02.01.1945
(6) 239 from Rummy of 2.1.1945
(7) Srl No. B1980 from Rummy of 05.01.45
(8) 244 to Rummy of 5.1.1945
No News of Revolt
RUMMY (Bert de Goede) advised London (9) that ROB commandant of the Rotterdam Stoottroepen (Shock Troops) was on his way to liberated territory.
Would London please give him every assistance? With regard to London’s cable about impending revolt in Rotterdam, RUMMY reported (10) that nothing
was known about it. The civil population was very quiet at the moment, but a little nervous about the next razzia.
Traitor Executed
RUMMY cabled that the KP had captured KEES ZUID (Kees Bitter). He had confessed to being a traitor, so they had killed him. ROB of Amsterdam would
be able to tell HQ more about this.
One-Man Torpedoes Well Guarded
He (Rummy) reported (11) that a great many men were going to the labour offices to sign on for work in Germany. When asked why they were going they
answered: “No food and no coal”. They did not listen to warnings on the Radio Orange station in London. Their morale was right down. He reported (12)
that the one-man torpedoes on trailers were very well camouflaged and guarded and it was impossible to carry out ant sabotage.
Hunger driving men to Germany
Within a few weeks there would no longer be an underground movement (13) as it was impossible for men of the resistance to go in the streets. More and
more men were going to the labour offices, simply because they were hungry.
SD asks for interview
RUMMY cabled (14): “Have now contact with female courier of CRIBBAGE. She wqs sent to me by HAUBROCK, one of the highest SD men. He wants to
talk with me. Will keep you advise. London replied (15): URGENT. Cut contact immediately with CRIBBAGE’s courier and in no circumstances have
anything to do with SD. If you do you will end up in Scheveningen prison with the rest.
(9) 210 from Rummy of 6.1.1945
(10) 211 from Rummy of 6.1.1945
(11) 221 from Rummy of 6.1.1945
(12) 225 from Rummy of 9.1.1945
(13) 226 from Rummy of 9.1.1945
(14) 227 from Rummy of 11.1.1945
(15) 254 from London of 11.1.1945
Threat to shoot 30 captives
With reference to TINE’s visit RUMMY cabled further (16) that she had delivered to him from HAUBROCK an ultimatum that unless he capitulated on
Friday night, January 12th, CRIBBAGE (van Duyn), TURNIQUOITS (Reisiger) and 30 other man of the underground movement would be killed.
Draughts in danger
All the agents sent by London were known to the SD. Would they please warn HANS (DRAUGHTS) that the SD “knew him by heart”. The SD also knew
names like “DUIKER” (Cees Dekkers, POKER) and “BOREL” (Jan Bockma HALMA). He thought these names were known only in England. VAN DE WILDE
(van der Waals) had been mentioned in this connection. The SD knew everything about the Dutch Country Section and the position of the Special Training
Schools.
“DUIKER” (Cees Dekkers, POKER) died in a plane crash near Gilze, Brabant and “BOREL” (Jan Bockma HALMA) died in a plane crash in the IJsselmeer.
Country section on SD’s “weak attempt”
The Dutch Section replied (17) that they considered CRIBBAGE’s courier “a menace”. The position of the men in SD hands was deeply regretted, but it
was considered that the SD would not issue such an ultimatum if they knew as much as they pretended to know. The Training Schools had been known to
the Germans years ago through captured agents. The training names mentioned might have been given by four agents captured last May. DRAUGHTS
would be warned, but the Section thought the SD “had demonstrated a weak attempt at intimidation” as there was no Guarantee that the captives
would not be shot in any case. RUMMY’s loyal attitude was appreciated, but if he considered himself in danger, he should come out.
Draughts received this message on January 12th: To Draughts via night Elan. LEO (Rummy) Rotterdam reports having ultimatum from SD that if he does
…. No more text visible.
Reply from Draughts (HANS) after being warned: From Draughts via Elan. January 13th 1945. Nr four seven zero stop Your nr two seven three stop Even
without ultimatum underground men will be shot stop Please do not care about knowledge SD of my person stop Thanks for message stop Feeling proud
with decoration (MBE) stop
Rummy: “Don’t underrate SD”
RUMMY cabled (18) that he would try to stay at his post as long as possible. HQ should not underrate the SD. At the moment they knew PODEX’s
(Mulholland) real name and how he escaped from Holland, etc. Would HQ please ask the RAF to attack the SD buildings at The Hague and Dordrecht?
London replied (19) that the SD was not underrated. It was repeated that he should come out if he were in danger. The targets he had mentioned had
been recommended.
SD captured resistance arsenal
RUMMY (Bert de Goede) cabled (20) that the SD also knew everything about SHOOTING (Luykenaar). RUMMY had warned SHOOTING that Rotterdam was
too dangerous for him. He had just received a message that the central weapon magazine of the Netherlands Forces of the Interior had fallen into the
hands od the SD (21).
(16) 228 from Rummy of 12.01.45
(17) 256 to Rummy of 12.01.45
(18) 231 from Rummy of 14.01.45
(19) 261 to Rummy of 14.01.45
(20) 235 from Rummy of 15.01.45
(21) 236 from Rummy of 15.1.1945
Big Losses of Material
He reported later (22) that the underground forces had lost 350 Stens, 25 bazookas, 25 Brens, 100 rifles and all their railway sabotage material. It was
impossible to get arms or material into Rotterdam, as all means of transport were known to the SD.
Rummy leaving
RUMMY had decided (23) that he would leave occupied territory the following week with SHOOTING (Luijkenaar). He would hand everything over to
COUSING (Hoogewerff). London cabled entire approval of his decision (24).
“Westendam” sunk
In his last message to London (25) RUMMY reported that the “Westerdam” had capsized in the Merwedehaven after an attack with five limpits (magnetic
mines).
(22) 238 from Rummy of 16.1.1945
(23) 244 from Rummy of 17.1.1945
(24) 22 from Rummy of 26.1.1945
(25) 22 from Rummy of 26.01.1945
SHOOTING, HUNTING & CHARADES (Contact with RVV)
SHOOTING
SHOOTING (Luykenaar) asked to send in its next load of containers (26), six military telescopes and a few hundred benzadrine tablets to keep the men on
the reception committee awake.
Shooting Known to SD
He cabled (27) that according to CRIBBAGE’s female courier TINE, SHOOTING’s description and his fieldname “LODEWIJK” were known to the SD. Would
London please tell him what to do?
Leaving with Rummy
London replied the following day (28) that they had since been informed by RUMMY that he, SHOOTING, was coming out with him. London agreed to this
course of action.
(26) 27 from Shooting of 15.1.1945
(27) 29 from Shooting of 21.1.1945
(28) 21 to Shooting of 22.1.1945
CHARADES
CHARADES (Jaap Beekman) cabled (29) that the situation in the high ranks of the NBS (Netherlands Forces of the Interior) had been chaotic since the
death of FRANK (van Beijnen) of the KP and KAREL (…) of the RVV. He had heard that a split might be imminent.
Overijssel Breaks away
The Commandant of the Overijssel (Lancker) had therefore temporarily broken direct contact with the commander of the NBS and expected his orders via
London radio or Eindhoven.
(29) 101 from Charades of 8.1.1945
DRAUGHTS (second mission) && BACKGAMMON (Contact with RVV and OD)
DRAUGHTS
Containers disappear
London reported (30) that an attempt would be made to drop containers on the ground SALLY as from that night (January 2nd). Draughts cabled to
following day that nothing had been received on the ground SALLY. The aircraft was seen but it did not drop (31). The next day London cabled (32) that the
pilot had reported dropping on the ground SALLY on the previous night. Would DRAUGHTS please investigate in view of what he had said about not receiving
any containers? Later the same day London cabled (33) that the pilot had stated that as the reception lights were not clearly seen, the load might have
dropped 500 metres from the pinpoint. It was suggested that DRAUGHTS should cause a search to be made to the north-west, or south-east of the
dropping zone.
(30) 251 to Draughts of 02.01.45
To Draughts via Towy or Elan.
Reference our two four nine trying Sally as from tonight Tuesday stop Plane will not use Sugar Phone this time stop
A dangerous mission
DRAUGHTS cabled (34) that as requested by London he had attempted the previous Saturday to send radio material to the SD man JOHAN BLANKE who
pretended he wanted to work with the Allies. Three cut-outs were sent. After half an hour number three (Mrs. Kleyn) had not returned, but in the meantime
number one
(Dr. Felix) and two (Mr. Muller), who were in the neighborhood, were arrested by the Gestapo.
Cut-outs in shooting affray
While on their way to the Gestapo HQ, cut-out number one (Dr. Felix), who had not been searched, opened pistol fire. He probably killed one German and
another was wounded in the shoulder. Cut-out number two
(Mr. Muller) was wounded in the stomach and number one (Dr. Felix) in the hip, but both of them escaped.
RVV Chairman missing
DRAUGHTS transmitted a message from the RVV (35) to the Dutch Government stating that HENK, their Chairman, had set off on November 17th to
Eindhoven on his way to London, but was now reported missing. It was thought that he had been killed or arrested in attempting to cross the Rhine.
(31) 377 from Draughts of 03.01.45
From Draughts via Elan.
Nr three seven seven (377) your two four nine (249) stop Received medical kit and twenty four containers stop Thanks for interesting material stop Deliver
today PIETER DEKKER’s part stop Thank you darling stop Sally did not receive load stop Aircraft seen but did not drop stop
(32) 252 to Draughts of 03.01.45
To Draughts via night Elan.
Pilot reports dropping on Sally January second stop OK please investigate in view your message three seven seven (377) also delivered Eureka at Sally stop
Suggest you fix one Eureka at Martini and one Eureka at Oliver stop The other Eureka could be shared between Laloe and Sally stop Do you agree this stop
Hawkins grenades recently are substitute for tyrebursters will try operation on Edinburgh from Tuesday fourth January stop Full load containers and three
packages including Eureka stop
(33) 254 to Draughts of 03.01.45
To Draughts via night Elan.
At Sally on night of second January owing to lights of reception not being clearly seen load was dropped at twenty three twenty six (23:26) on Eureka stop
Load may have dropped five hundred meters from dropping zone stop suggest most likely areas search be north west or south east of dropping zone.
(34) 381 from Draughts of 04.01.45
From Draughts via Elan.
Nr three eight one (381) stop Reference your two four five (245) stop Material delivered last Saturday by three cut outs stop After half an hour number
three did not return meanwhile number one and two were in the neighborhood arrested by the Gestapo agents stop On their … no more text visible.
(35) 384 from Draughts of 05.01.45
From Draughts via Towy.
Nr three eight four (384) stop From RVV to Dutch Government stop HENK chairman RVV started November seventeenth to Eindhoven with destination London
stop Reported missing stop Probably killed or arrested in attempt to pass the Rhine stop Mission now delegated to RICHARD (Jacob van der Gaag) alias
VICTOR with departure fixed on January fifteenth stop Appreciated his early return stop Detailed telegram from VMVM follows soonest stop
(Who is VWVW ?)
London’s plan for mass forgeries
London sent a request to the DRIEHOEK (36) that when the new forms showing exemption from the labour call-up were issued, originals covering the main
areas should be sent as soon as possible. It might then be feasible to put them into mass production for distribution. The Germans would find out eventually
but it might delay razzias.
No trace of containers
DRAUGHTS reported (37) that the Sally load had completely disappeared. His people had been searching everywhere, even with boats on the IJsselmeer. It
was considered that there was no possibility of the load being in German hands.
Labour Conscription: Request for Tear Gas
DRAUGHTS transmitted (38) a request from the DRIEHOEK to drop tear bombs and other weapons as soon as possible, particularly near the large towns, for
use by the underground forces against labour conscription measures. London replied (39) that HQ was ready to help him but feared that resistance of this
nature would lead to considerable bloodshed and reprisals from the Germans. He was asked to reconsider his request.
Driehoek accepts responsibility
The Commander of the DRIEHOEK (Koot) replied (40): “I maintain my request, which is expressly intended to prevent bloodshed. As action against labour
conscription is a question of ‘to be or not to be’ I accept the possibilities of German reprisals”.
Registration buildings blown up
DRAUGHTS reported (41) that on January 5th - the first day of registration for labour conscription in Amsterdam - the registration building, which was a
school in the Marnix Straat, was blown up and burnt. The ten Dutch National Socialist officials were all shot the same evening.
On January 7th another registration building in the Passeerdergracht was destroyed and one man killed. Various registers of the population had been taken by
resistance in the provinces of Noord and Zuid Holland.
Snow delays Ops
DRAUGHTS asked (42) that operations in the provinces of Noord and Zuid Holland should be cancelled until the weather improved, as the ground was
covered with snow.
(36) 257 to Draughts of 05.01.45
To Draughts via night Elan.
For DC stop When quote Nieuwe BENYZEN (Bewijzen) van Vrijstelling van de arbeids einsatz unquote are issued please send urgently set of original papers
covering main areas stop We could possibly help by sending you mass production copies for distribution stop Germans would find out eventually but it might
delay razzias stop
(37) 385 from Draughts of 06.01.45
From Draughts via Towy
Nr three eight five (385) stop No dropping on Edinburgh last night stop Plane did circle several times around area stop Load Sally complete gone our people
were looking everywhere also with boats on IJsselmeer stop No possibility load in German hands stop
(38) 391 from Draughts of 08.01.45
From Draughts via Towy.
Nr three nine one (391) stop PLIG NATROD soonest and principally for areas of bigger town tear bombs and other weapon with directions for use for actions
against arbeidsinzet and other events where firearms can be handled The DC stop
(39) 265 from London of 08.01.45
To Draughts via night Elan.
To DC stop Your request for tear bombs and other weapons against arbeidsinzet stop we are ready to help you but we fear that resistance of this nature will
lead to considerable bloodshed and unpleasant reprisals by Germans stop Please reconsider your request stop
(40) 398 from Draughts of 09.01.45
From Draughts via Draughts via Towy.
Nr three nine eight (398) stop Your nr two six five (265) maintain my request which expressly meant to prevent brother bloodshed stop As action
arbeidsinzet at the moment is question of to be or not to be stop I accept also German reprisal stop the DC stop
(41) Srl No. B2067/22 from Draughts of 09.01.45
From Draughts via Towy.
Aan CNBS stop Op vijf Januari (5.1.1945) eerste meldingsdag arbeidsinzet te Amsterdam het aanmeldingsgebouw GPKEGKF school Marnisstraat opgeblazen
verbrand stop De Tien NSB ambtenaren savonds alle neergeschoten stop Op zeven Januari (7.1.1945) het andere meldingsbebouw Passeedersgracht
verwoest waarbij eenige PTITSCSORS gedood stop Verschillende bevolkingsregisters in Noord Holland en Zuid Holland weggenomen stop The DC stop Nr three
eight nine (389) stop
(42) 402 from draughts of 05.01.45
Don’t have this telegram
Decorations for Daughts
London informed DRAUGHTS (43) that he had been awarded the MBE and sent him heartiest congratulations and appreciation for the good work he was
doing.
SD ultimatum: Draughts warned
On January 12th London cabled (44) as follows: - LEO (RUMMY) of Rotterdam reports having received an ultimatum from the SD that if he does not
capitulate then agents and captured underground men be shot. He is going to carry on but mentions that you are known to the SD . “We consider SD
attempt at intimidation weak, as they would not issue ultimatum if they knew as much as they pretend to know. You know the state of your own security
and if you consider that you are in danger then you must come out”.
“Take no Notice”
DRAUGHTS replied (45) that even without this ultimatum the men of the underground movement would be shot. He asked HQ not to take any notice of the
fact that the SD had information about him. He was told (46) that smoke bombs would be delivered in place of the tear-bombs he had asked for.
Resistance urged to attack rockets
HQ sent to the DRIEHOEK via DRAUGHTS (47) an urgent request that resistance forces should assist in the fight against rocket activity directed towards
liberated areas and England.
Rifle fire effective
If sabotage was not possible by explosives during transit, than the easiest method was to attack by riffle or Stengun fire the rocket casings or parts while
being transported by rail or road. A rifle bullet would penetrate and seriously damage a rocket casing at 500 meter and the Sten at 100 meter. There was no
danger of explosion as the war-head was not attached until the rocket reached the firing point.
Oxygen target
The rockets were transported in units of three flat trucks, the middle truck being smaller than the other two. Each unit of three carried two rockets covered
with canvas. Would the DRIEHOEK please request resistance forces to give the maximum help, and investigate the possibility of attacking stationary oxygen
wagons? HQ would send special explosive charges if required.
(43) 272 to Draughts of 12.01.45
To Draughts via night Elan.
You have been awarded the MBE stop Our heartiest congratulations and appreciation for good work you are doing stop Hope official presentation will not be
unduly delayed stop
(44) 273 to Draughts of 12.01.45
To Draughts via night Elan.
LEO Rotterdam reports having received ultimatum from SD that if he does … no more text visible.
(46) 274 to Draughts of 13.01.45
To Draughts via night Elan.
Your four zero five (405) stop Last part mutilated stop Please repeat name of ground ready as from Friday night stop Your three nine eight (398) stop
Delivery tear gas impossible but will deliver smoke bombs stop Please state at which ground you want them dropped stop Eva very proud of your
decoration stop
(45) 407 from Draughts of 13.01.45
From Draughts via Elan.
Four zero seven (407) stop Your nr two seven three (273) stop Even without ultimatum underground men will be shot stop Please do not care about
knowledge SD over my person stop Thanks for message stop Feeling proud with decoration stop
(47) 275 and 276 to Draughts of 13.01.45
Don’t have telegram 275.
276 to Draughts via night Elan.
Continuation of two seven five (275) stop There is no danger of explosion as explosive head is only attached at firing point area stop Rockets are
transported in units of three flat trucks middle truck being smaller than other two stop Each unit of three carries two rockets covered with canvas stop
Please request resistance give maximum help stop Please investigate possibility attacking stationary Oxygen wagons stop Will send special explosive charges
if required stop
Request for medical supplies
DRAUGHTS asked (48) for large quantities of medical supplies which were urgently needed in occupied Holland. These included 50 million units of insulin and
considerable quantities of morphine, opium and belladonna.
New plan for sabotage
The following message was sent to DRAUGHTS 1 for the DRIEHOEK (49): - “If you have not already done so consider it essential you set up urgently
several small groups of men throughout each region to carry out sabotage operations under regional sabotage chiefs to be appointed by you on
recommendation of PETER and FREEK. Groups in question would be required from most suitable elements among local OD, RVV and KP.
Reserves to support army
“Such an arrangement would enable the rest of your forces to be held in reserve for eventual support of military operations. We would use existing
communications to issue directives for these groups through zone or regional commanders, but we would urge they pass such directives to regional sabotage
chiefs verbally so as not to compromise their security. Similar plan worked very satisfactory in both Belgium and France. Urgently request report how soon
this can be completed”.
Alcohol Target
DRAUGHTS reported (50) that the Gist and Spiritus Fabriek (Yeast and Spirit Factory) at Delft was daily producing great quantities of 96 percent alcohol for
rockets. A successful bombardment would put an end to a very great part of the supply in Holland.
Population Register Nearly Completed
London cabled (51) to the DRIEHOEK that a report had been received that the control registers of population would be completed by the Germans towards
the end of February. All new Ausweise would be booked in this register together with the number of the appropriate identity card. The informant had stated
that the only way to save the illegal movement was to supply 200.000 unnumbered identity cards from England for distribution to underground workers.
Would the DRIEHOEK give its opinion?
Draughts Prepares for New Razzia
DRAUGHTS reported (52) that there were rumors of razzias starting again on January 20th. On the night of January 18th a large number of the police forces
were arrested. Preparations had almost been completed for a series of hiding places so that when the razzias started, DRAUGHTS and his colleagues would
be able to continue their work.
(48) 411 from Draughts of 14.01.45
From Draughts via Towy.
Nr four one one (411) stop FHAWP deficit of medicines will turn the medical providing of Dutch people to a catastrophal one may we urgently ask your help
in this question stop For the next few months we need as most important supplies fifty million units insulin please powder two hundred fifty kg Phenilethyl
Barbisurac Acid twenty five kg Morphimae Hydrochlorium two hundred kg opium fifty kg Extractum Belladonnae one half kg Pelocarpinae Eydrochloridum one
thousand kg Sulfathiazolum one thousand kg Sulfanilamide five hundred kg Sulfapyridine stop Moreover the supply of Pyramidon Asprin Sqdium SALWYLATE
rpt SALCCYQUATE and Vaseline are nearly exhausted stop
(49) 278 to Draughts of 15.01.45
Telegram has same text as in diary.
(50) Srl No. B2338/8 from Draughts of 18.01.45
Don’t have this telegram.
(51) 286 to Draughts of 18.01.45
Telegram has same text as in diary.
(52) 419 from Draughts of 19.01.45
Again razzia rumours starting as from tomorrow stop Sorry for not answering DC question marks they are on the move after arrest of a few girls stop Last
night number of police force arrested stop We are nearly ready with our hiding places and can work when razzias will start stop Please repeat your nr two
eight three in a new message medical words mutilated stop Thanks Pappa Bols stop
“Political fight” among resistance groups
DRAUGHTS cabled (53): - “There is nothing else but a political fight between the three illegal groups. Suggest the three organizations be liquidated, and a
new commander for ll Holland appointed”. London hoped to send medical supplies requested by DRAUGHTS (54). Would he please indicate whether they
were all to be sent to his area, and to which grounds? He replied (55) that the distribution centre would be Amsterdam. The amount requested was intended
to supply the whole population of Holland for three months.
Oxygen wagons well guarded
The DRIEHOEK reported (56) that the oxygen wagons used in connection with V-2 rockets were normally well guarded, but that when attacks were
possible the explosives already in position of the resistance forces were sufficient. Further consignments were therefore not needed.
Surrender talks reported
DRAUGHTS was warned (57) that information had been received that a doctor and a clergyman and two men of the resistance movement in The Hague
were negotiating with the SD for total surrender and had been promised pardon against delivery of arms. Did DRAUGHTS know anything of these people?
This information might be correct or merely n attempt at intimidation by the SD. DRAUGHTS replied (58) that DRAUGHTS-2 (Cor van Paaschen) had
reported a surrender of arms a week ago. He had no further details and he did not know the persons mentioned.
Transformers sabotaged
He (Biallosterski) reported (59) that he had sabotaged with explosives the transformers delivering current to the Naval Establishment and to other important
factories working for the German war industry. All these transformers were in Amsterdam (60).
V-1 news wanted
DRAUGHTS was advised (61) that any available information regarding the enemy’s intention of using new V-1 launching sites would be of great use to the
Army. For example, they wished to have information on the construction of new sites, the collection of material on new or old sites and the mounting of
extra guards.
More targets for sabotage
DRAUGHTS was told (62) that in addition to the targets which he was already attacking, destruction of the following would assist the Allied war effort: -
(a) Oxygen plants used in connection with rockets; (b) Petrol and oil supplies; (c) Factories known to be working for the Germans, especially those making
aircraft and submarine parts; precision instruments and wireless and electrical equipment . Sabotage teams should be isolated and not take part in other
resistance activities.
(53) 422 from Draughts of 22.01.45
From Draughts via Elan.
Nr four two two (422) stop Finding nothing else than a political fight between the three illegal groups stop Suggest to liquidate the three organizations and
to appoint new commander over Holland stop
(54) 293 to Draughts of 23.01.45
To Draughts via night Elan.
In your telegram four one one (411) you ask for certain medical supplies stop We hope to send these stop Tell us whether they all to be sent to your area
and to which grounds in what proportions stop
(55) 426 from Draughts of 24.01.45
From Draughts via Elan.
Nr four two six (426) stop Your two nine three (239) stop Distribution place for Holland is Amsterdam stop Grounds Oliver and Sally stop Please portions we
asked for enough for two or three months whole population Holland stop Thanks very much indeed stop
(56) Srl No. B2804 from Draughts of 24.01.45
From Draughts via Towy.
Nr four two nine (429) stop Your two seven six (276) stop Special explosives charges not necessary as Oxygen wagons normally well guarded and in view
occasions that attacks are possible explosives in our position suffice stop The DC stop
(57) 296 to Draughts of 25.01.45
To draughts via night Elan.
For your information have been advised that a doctor a clergyman and two other men of illegal movement the The Hague are negotiation with SD for total
surrender and have been promised pardon against delivery of arms stop Do you know of these people stop Your four two seven (427) stop Please explain
your meaning quote If you pick up cables unquote is cable broken or do you wish us to link up with cable stop
(58) 432 from Draughts of 25.01.45
From Draughts via Elan.
Nr four three two (432) stop Your two nine six stop PIETER DEKKER reported SOSRNANNG (surrender) about a week ago stop There are only a few stens in
The Hague stop Do not know persons stop Elst will soon be connected to Amsterdam stop Suggest to use Telex communication and hope you will link up
with cable stop
(59) Srl No. B2637 from Draughts of 29.01.45
From Draughts via Towy.
Nr four three six (436) stop Knocked out transformers with explosives delivering current to Navy establishment and for the German war industry important
factories stop
(60) Srl No. B2665 from Draughts of 30.01.45
From Draughts via Towy.
Your three hundred (300) stop Asterweg One Gramweg one Ruiterkade one Katersburgplein one Oosterburger Dwarsweg one Cruquinsweg and one Corn
Troost Plein Landwacht kazerne stop
(61) 299 to Draughts of 29.01.45
(62) 306 from Draughts of 30.01.45
From Draughts via Elan.
In addition to targets which you are already attacking destruction following targets will assist Allied was effort stop Oxygen plants used in connection with
rockets stop Petrol and oil supplies stop Factories known to be working for the Germans and in particular those engaged in making aircraft and submarine
parts precision wireless and electrical instruments stop Sabotage teams should be isolated and not take part in other resistance activities in order to
safeguard security of NBS stop Love from Denmark stop
DUDLEY (Jedburgh Liaison with RVV)
Mail Order Dept.
DUDLEY (Henk Brinkgreve) cabled (63) that he was “Browned off” because local SAS operators got lashing liquor, sweets and cigarettes, while he got
nothing al all. Why was this? He also required a decent suit, socks and boots, warm gloves, scarf, hat, shirts, razor blades and soap.
Resistance Strength in Achterhoek
According to the latest available information (64), there were in the beginning of December about 800 active members of the underground in the
Achterhoek. There were arms available for about 400 men.
Christmas Day Arrest
On January 19th DUDLEY reported (65) that the commandant of the Achterhoek, COLONEL van BUUREN, with two members of his staff, had been arrested
by the Gestapo on Christmas Day. DUDLEY was making efforts to reorganize resistance in that area.
(63) 4 from Evert of 19.1.1945
(64) 3 from Evert of 19.1.1945
(65) 2 from Evert of 19.1.1945
CUBBING (Contact with Driehoek)
CUBBING (Maarten Cieremans) reported that KAREL (TUNIQUOITS, Gerrit Reisiger) (66) had been arrested during his last transmission. He was now in the
hands of the highest officers of the SD at The Hague, who were in possession of half the W/T plan BLYTHE. Up to now KAREL had been well treated, for the
SD knew who he was.
(66) 1 from Cubbing of 13.01.45
Cubbing Coming Out
If possible, CUBBING would come through the lines to give a report (67). He and his operator BOB (Bob Vree) would come through between the rivers Rhine
and Waal, near Elst. He asked whether HQ could send for him and his W/T operator and bring them across the Waal. London replied (68) that CUBBING
could not be helped on the lines he suggested but, nevertheless, it was hoped that he would be able to leave occupied territory soon.
Stores delayed
CUBBING cabled (69): “Be reasonable and help us maintain a good W/T contact by doing what I ask you, dropping immediately all special stores,
particularly W/T material, accumulators and noiseless charge equipment, bicycle tires, etc. Do not ask for useless extra skeds”.
W/T plan in German hands
London fully appreciated his W/T contact difficulties (70) but his plan Wey (Waveney) was most insecure; a copy was in German hands. For this reason
London could not comply with his request for extra skeds at the same time. Special sendings were being worked out. London had been trying to send
supplies for the last few nights but had been prevented by bad weather. They would keep on trying.
Agents betrayed by “key clicks”
CUBBING reported (71) that difficulties had been experienced owing to the “key clicks” of their W/T sets. KAREL had transmitted about fifteen times over a
period of three weeks at a point approximately 400 metres from a Luftwaffe office. The Germans had accidently heard his key clicks and walked through
Zeist with miniature direction finders. After three days walking they found his street. KAREL was not aware of this and carried on with his work. Suddenly a
small local razzia was made and KAREL was arrested. CRIBBAGE was pick up in the same way. BOB had transmitted for three days from one address and
again the Germans had nearly succeeded in finding him by following his key clicks with a broadcast receiver in a motor car. Fortunately BOB had been on the
alert and avoided arrest.
Key clicks can be heard all over the radio band, so one doesn’t have to tune on the frequency on which the station is transmitting to hear the clicks. Don’t
know if this problem only occurred with the B2 wireless set.
Better sets needed
The “click filter” of the B mark II set was most inefficient and if HQ could not send sets with a better filter then CUBBING and his fellow workers would soon
follow KAREL (Gerrit Reisiger) and CRIBBAGE (Arie van Duyn). As a temporary emergency measure BOB was working at Loosdrecht, while CUBBING
stayed in Utrecht, which he could not leave because of his work. On the other hand, the journey between Utrecht and Loosdrecht cost time and was
dangerous. Would London please do what it could to help?
Safe Addresses Rare
In reply London suggested (72) that he should cut his traffic to a minimum. His operator should never transmit from the same place twice. CUBBING
pointed out (73) that safe addresses for transmissions were getting very rare, so that if BOB never transmitted from the same address twice their work
come to a standstill. He hoped London would eliminate the “key click danger”.
(67) 2 from Cubbing of 13.01.45
(68) 32 to Cubbing of 19.01.45
(69) 6 from Cubbing of 20.01.45
(70) 35 to Cubbing of 20.01.45
(71) 10 from Cubbing of 24.01.45
(72) 39 to Cubbing of 25.01.45
(73) 13 from Cubbing of 26.01.45
COURSING
COURSING (Hoogewerff) asked for more money (74). Food conditions were very bad and steadily worsening.
Arms in Milk Cart
Referring to the loss of the central weapon magazine COURSING reported (75) that one of the arrested men had “talked” to the SD straight away. The
magazine had been surrounded by 50 Grünepolizei and everything had been completely lost. Weapon transport in Rotterdam was now possible only on a very
small scale. A boat and a milk cart previously used for such transport were now known to the SD, who were trying to blow up the explosives in the boat.
Rummy delayed by snow
COURSING (Hoogewerff) reported (76) that experiments with one-man torpedoes were being carried out at Hellevoetsluis and Lekhaven, COURSING
reported (77) that RUMMY’s departure had been delayed by snow, but he would start off as soon as possible.
(76) Srl No. B2580 from Coursing of 27.01.45
(77) 29 from Coursing of 31.01.45
NECKING & BOBSLEIGH (Resistance in Friesland)
Reception Conditions “Lousy”
NECKING (Peter Tazelaar) reported (78) that general conditions for reception committees were “most lousy”. Recent failures were due to bad lighting.
Could London please send more batteries? He would go to the ground himself for the next operation (79). London appreciated his enthusiasm (80) but
considered he should abstain from being present at dropping operations.
Floods Change View of Friesland
He cabled (81) that RAF pilots should be warned that the air view of Friesland was completely changed because of the high water level.
Positions in Drenthe and Groningen
He reported (82) that although at the present time there was no commandant in Drenthe, resistance there was organized, but owing to German patrol
activity this province had to be supplied by operations to Friesland. The same situation existed in Groningen, but it was hoped that receptions there would
be organized in due course.
Reception Committees Indisciplined
With regard to the question of personal attendance at reception grounds (83) he stated that this was necessary owing to the recent run of failures. The
reception committees were inclined to be rather undisciplined and it was no good telling them from a distance what to do. They were also getting
discouraged.
Need for Personal Attendance
Under his personal direction it had “worked out wonderfully” at the last dropping operation. However, if London insisted he would do as they wished, but in
that case he would take no responsibility for the outcome of the operations.
London to Report on Committees
London suggested (84) that after he had once demonstrated the reception procedure the committee should be left to carry on. He should advise them that
if the correct procedure were not observed nothing would be sent. London would then keep NECKING advised on the efficiency of his various committees.
NECKING reported (85) that runways had been repaired on the Leeuwarden aerodrome. Anti- Aircraft guns also been put in order and a supply of light
bombs for fighters had arrived.
Too Many Cooks
London cabled (86): “Have just received following message from the OD at Assen: ‘Friesland asks that nine instructors should be dropped on the ground
Sideboard’. Do you know anything about this, as all resistance matters come through you”. NECKING replied (87): “Do not take notice of anything which
does not come from NBS Friesland through us. Shall look into the matter. Some fool acted on his own silly initiative. One of our little domestic troubles. Will
not happen again.
Dangers of Moving
NECKING (Peter Tazelaar) reported (88) that the NBS was established in Drenthe. Any agent being sent to the area should have two W/T operators who
could work alternately, so that he would not need to move them too often. “Moving between two addresses is the most dangerous thing in this racket”.
Reorganisation in Drenthe
He cabled (89) that after the recent trouble the Drenthe area had started to work again on an NBS basis, completely outside the former constellation of KP
and OD. They had had to begin again from scratch because all theit leaders and arms were seized. They were now ready to start re-arming. The
commandant’s opinion was that they would be able to receive on their own grounds. They were waiting only for easy contact with England.
Necking to Stay in Friesland
He asked (90) whether London could send men to Drenthe soon. If not, he suggested that as communications were too poor to run Drenthe from Friesland,
and since Friesland was running smoothly, he should leave BOBSLEIGH (Faber) to run Friesland, and go to Drenthe himself with one set and a W/T
operator. London replied (91) that a W/T operator and organizer for Drenthe would be dropped as soon as the ground to which they were going had been
successfully tried out. NECKING should stay where he was.
V-2’s from Overijssel
He cabled (92) that he had received information from an absolutely reliable source that V-2’s were being fired from Nieuwheeten in the Overijssel. The
direction of the firing was south and south-west. London cabled (93) that they had been warned that arrests were still going on in Drenthe. It was
suggested that he should be very careful and not make personal contacts.
(78) 13 from Necking of 1.1.1945
(79) 14 from Necking of 2.1.1945
(80) 38 to Necking of 3.1.1945
(81) 15 from Necking of 3.1.1945
(82) 15 from Necking of 4.1.1945
(83) 16 from Necking of 5.1.1945
(84) 39 to Necking of 5.1.1945
(85) 17 from Necking of 6.1.1945
(86) 42 to Necking of 8.1.1945
(87) 19 from Necking of 9.1.1945
(88) 24 from Necking of 19.1.1945
(89) 27 from Necking of 22.1.1945
(90) 28 from Necking of 22.1.1945
(91) 49 to Necking of 22.1.1945
(92) 31 from Necking of 23.1.1945
(93) 53 to Necking of 27.1.1945
TRAPPING (Second W/T to Rotterdam KP)
TRAPPING’s (Richard Barme) cables for this month were concerned solely with the technicalities of transmission.
w.mugge@home.nl