The Forgotten 500 by Gregory A. Freeman: Book Overview

Have you ever wondered about the untold stories of World War II? Did you know there was a secret rescue mission that saved hundreds of Allied pilots behind enemy lines?

Gregory A. Freeman's The Forgotten 500 book reveals an incredible tale of bravery and sacrifice during WWII. You'll learn about Operation Halyard, a daring mission to rescue over 500 downed Allied airmen from Nazi-occupied Yugoslavia.

Read on to discover how American pilots, Serbian villagers, and a controversial resistance leader came together in one of the war's most remarkable rescue operations.

Overview of The Forgotten 500

During World War II, the courageous efforts of Yugoslav guerrilla leader Draza Mihailovich played a vital role in The Forgotten 500 book by Gregory A. Freeman. This book recounts Operation Halyard, an undertaking that rescued over 500 Allied pilots stranded in Nazi-occupied territory.

Mihailovich's Chetnik forces provided aid and shelter to downed American airmen at great personal risk. However, shifting political allegiances resulted in Mihailovich's actions being overlooked. The rescued pilots vowed to honor the general's bravery after the war, a pledge that proved challenging given the operation's concealment by Allied powers.

American Pilots Stranded in Enemy Territory

During World War II, American pilots found themselves in a perilous situation when their planes were shot down over Nazi-occupied Yugoslavia. These airmen were part of crucial missions targeting Romanian oil fields, which were vital to the German war effort. As they flew across the Adriatic Sea, many planes were damaged or destroyed, leaving crews wounded and stranded in hostile territory.

The downed pilots faced a grim fate if captured. They risked torture, execution, or imprisonment by Yugoslavian forces allied with the Nazis. Their survival hinged entirely on the choices made by local villagers who encountered them. These brave civilians faced severe consequences if the Germans discovered they were helping Allied airmen. Despite the danger, many Yugoslavs chose to assist the stranded pilots, moving them between villages and providing shelter at great personal risk.

The Allied offensive against industrial targets in Ploesti resulted in numerous American aircraft being shot down. Pilots often returned from these challenging missions with battered planes and injured crew members. Those who didn't make it back found themselves in a desperate situation, relying on the kindness of strangers in a war-torn land.

Operation Halyard: A Daring Rescue Mission

Operation Halyard was a bold and ambitious rescue mission orchestrated by Serbian guerrilla leader Draza Mihailovich in collaboration with the Office of Strategic Services (OSS). This operation became the largest air evacuation of World War II, aiming to save 512 Allied pilots from behind enemy lines.

The mission required incredible ingenuity and bravery. A small Yugoslavian village became the unlikely site of a temporary airstrip, serving as the launching point for a series of daring aerial rescues. The planning process demanded meticulous coordination between operatives, including both the stranded aviators and local insurgents.

In the face of uncertainty, a makeshift airstrip materialized in Pranjane. C-47 transport planes carried out risky nighttime operations, skillfully evading detection by German forces. Despite numerous obstacles and setbacks, the aircraft persevered in their extended effort to rescue the aviators. The mission's success was a testament to the collective efforts of American military personnel, Yugoslav resistance fighters, and courageous local residents who put their lives on the line.

Legacy of Operation Halyard

The details of Operation Halyard remained classified for many years after the war. The contributions of international allies and the well-deserved recognition for the rescuers were not adequately acknowledged for decades. However, this operation stands as a powerful symbol of the courage and resourcefulness of all involved - from clandestine fighters and local villagers to military personnel. It highlights a remarkable example of successful collaborative resistance during a critical period of global conflict.

Draza Mihailovich and the Chetnik Resistance

Draza Mihailovich played a crucial role in the Chetnik resistance movement during World War II. His forces not only actively disrupted German objectives but also provided sanctuary to downed Allied airmen. Mihailovich's commitment to opposing both Nazi and Communist forces made him a complex figure in the conflict.

Under Mihailovich's command, the Chetnik forces carried out strategic sabotage operations to undermine German interests. His unwavering resolve was not just to liberate his nation from Nazi control, but also to preserve its cultural heritage and minimize the war's impact on civilians. Mihailovich's strategy emphasized consolidating his forces and avoiding premature confrontations that could lead to their total destruction or unnecessary civilian casualties.

In a bold move that demonstrated his anti-Nazi stance, Mihailovich rejected German offers of collaboration. He insisted that no negotiations could take place as long as Serbs were being persecuted in their homeland. Mihailovich emerges as a passionate nationalist who fiercely upheld the principles of freedom and self-determination, maintaining a strong allegiance to the United States in a world torn apart by conflict.

Protecting Downed Allied Pilots

The villagers, often motivated by Mihailovich's troops, risked their own safety to provide American pilots with food, shelter, and protection. They showed remarkable courage in the face of German patrols, offering not just basic necessities but also shielding the airmen from detection. Mihailovich's followers demonstrated unwavering loyalty as they transported their ailing general on a stretcher across difficult terrain, skillfully evading capture while simultaneously safeguarding the American troops.

The local Serbian community went to extraordinary lengths to help the American airmen. During times of scarcity, they generously shared their food, offered places to rest, and even treated the pilots to their distinctive plum brandy. These acts of kindness came with great risk, as the ever-present threat of German reprisals loomed large. The brave villagers knew that by harboring Americans nearby, they were not only creating a safe haven but also attracting the attention of German troops.

Mihailovich made it clear that his men were responsible for the airmen's safety, with the understanding that failure to protect them would result in severe consequences. This underscores the deep commitment Mihailovich and his soldiers had to protecting the American personnel, demonstrating their profound respect for fellow soldiers.

Political Betrayal and Suppression of Operation Halyard

The story of Operation Halyard is not just one of heroism, but also of political intrigue and betrayal. Despite Mihailovich's crucial role in rescuing Allied airmen, shifting political alliances led to his abandonment by the very Allies he had once helped. The brave details of the rescue efforts were intentionally kept secret, a decision that would have far-reaching consequences.

Initially, the Allied powers supported Mihailovich's Chetnik troops. However, influenced by Communists like James Klugmann, who actively worked to undermine Mihailovich's reputation, the Allies shifted their support to Tito. Klugmann, a Soviet mole within the British Special Operations Executive, exaggerated Mihailovich's misdeeds, downplayed his resistance against the Germans, and emphasized Tito's accomplishments, thereby swaying British policy in favor of Tito over Mihailovich.

Accusations and Shifting Alliances

Accusations of collaboration with the enemy resulted in Mihailovich becoming alienated from the Allied forces. Despite his consistent refusals of German proposals and telegrams emphasizing his stance against them, British officials remained skeptical. They favored a more aggressive form of resistance similar to that shown by Tito's Partisans, which they failed to see in Mihailovich's actions.

James Klugmann played a pivotal role in changing the dynamics of interaction with the Allied forces. By crafting a narrative that influenced key figures within British intelligence, Klugmann effectively diminished Mihailovich's importance. This resulted in a shift of support towards Tito's partisans, leading to Mihailovich's marginalization and ultimate loss of Allied backing.

U.s. Government's Role in Suppressing Operation Halyard

The U.S. government chose to downplay and keep Operation Halyard secret, despite Mihailovich's crucial involvement in rescuing over 500 American pilots. Wary of diplomatic relationships, the administration maintained secrecy regarding the operation's details to avoid acknowledging the support received from Mihailovich. This cover-up extended into the post-war period, with government records being classified and the entire operation largely kept out of public knowledge.

In a surprising turn of events, President Harry Truman posthumously awarded Mihailovich the Legion of Merit, a highly esteemed military honor reserved for foreign nationals. However, this significant recognition was kept confidential due to political sensitivities. The commendation remained hidden until an appropriate time for its disclosure could be determined. It wasn't until nearly two decades later that Congressman Edward J. Derwinski's actions brought this recognition to light, showcasing the depth of Mihailovich's bravery and the complex activities of the Allied forces during the final stages of the conflict.

American Airmen's Pledge to Honor Mihailovich

The actions and memories of the American pilots following the hostilities clearly demonstrate their deep respect and unwavering commitment to General Draza Mihailovich and his Chetnik forces. During a tumultuous period, the American pilots who received protection and support from Mihailovich's troops became staunch supporters of the General's character. The airmen, including Wilson, were deeply moved by the sacrifices made on their behalf, which inspired Wilson to commit to accurately recording these historical events.

Upon returning to their homeland, the airmen joined forces to refute allegations of Mihailovich's collaboration with the enemy. They engaged with the press, wrote heartfelt articles, and openly advocated for him. Arthur Jibilian, one of the rescued airmen, firmly opposed these claims, stating, "If he is to be called a collaborator, then I must be regarded in the same way."

Efforts to Clear Mihailovich's Name

After Mihailovich's execution, the pilots launched a fervent effort to posthumously clear his name. They lobbied politicians, sought to pass legislation for a monument in his honor, and supported public relations efforts to counter false narratives. A proposal was made to construct a memorial near the Capitol to honor Mihailovich's contributions and sacrifice.

The impact of Operation Halyard on the lives of the pilots and their descendants was profound and long-lasting. The bravery and selflessness of the Serbians were consistently recognized and honored in memory of Mihailovich and the efforts to save others. Some of the saved pilots returned to the small villages to express their deep appreciation to the Serbian villagers who had risked so much to help them. They participated in events to honor and ensure the rightful recognition of Mihailovich's historical importance.

Continuing the Legacy

The Air Force pays tribute to Mihailovich's legacy by commemorating the operation that resulted in numerous rescues. This recognition serves as a testament to the enduring impact of Mihailovich's actions and the gratitude felt by those he helped save.

The descendants of these pilots also felt a profound duty to honor Mihailovich for the aid provided to their forebears. They visited sites of importance to their ancestors' liberation, paying tribute to the lasting impact of the actions taken in support of General Mihailovich and his heritage. As the narratives of history continue to unfold, the legacy of this complex historical figure is preserved through generations, with enduring gratitude being continuously transmitted.