Office of Strategic Services Operational Groups

Mission:
Similar to that of "Christopher."

Summary:
9/10 September 1944. Seven Liberators carried the OGs to the DZ 35K northwest of Dijon in the Cotes d'Or area dropping them between 2345 and 0100 hours. Several of the planes were fired on in flight. Capt. Kielbowicz, the CO and the first to jump, was killed, possibly when a container pierced his parachute. There were three minor lower extremity injuries on the jump. Reception was excellent. Group was taken to Avot, fed, and given quarters. Capt. Pitre assumed command of the Group.

On the morning of the 10th they set up headquarters on the outskirt of the town. Briefing indicated the 3rd Army was 80 miles to the north and the 7th Army 30 miles to the south.

10 Sept. (cont'd). German divisions retreating north trying to escape from the 7th Army were ambushed. An armored car and four trucks full of Germans were knocked out with 200 killed or wounded.

11 Sept. Maquis and Group continued ambushing operations.

12 Sept. Remains of German column moving out of Dijon were ambushed with considerable number killed.

13 Sept. Near Avot three vehicles were ambushed with all, about 10, killed. French Army had now bypassed Dijon, reaching Chatillon.

14 Sept. Group moved from Avot, through Chatillon and Troyes, to Paris with no opposition.

20 Sept. Plane carried them from Paris to London.

Summary compiled by John Hamblet.