32. Footnote No Longer Pt 3: The mistaken air raid in Besancon and subsequent SOE operations during the Second World War with John Cresswell

On this episode, Mark welcomes back Jon Cresswell to the syndicate to discuss the third part of the Second World War story of Besancon in occupied France. Previously, Jon had discussed the women in blue (Ep 10) and the Liberation of Besancon (Ep 20). This story sits between those two events. It is a story of an RAF Air Raid gone wrong that leads to the bombing of Besancon and the destruction of parts of the town. The intended target was a factory manufacturing components for the FW190 about an hours drive from Besancon. Seeking to prevent air raids in the future, the boldest of SOE agents, Temp Capt Harry Ree DSO OBE, launches a number of audacious special operations raids alongside the factory workers from the factory who worked there to destroy vital components and machinery. No longer a footnote in history due to Jon's and others efforts, he tells this final part of the story in engaging detail.From the macro to the micro topics of history, The History Syndicate Podcast is the forum for all with a common interest in all things history.The views expressed are those of the author and guest. They do not necessarily represent any views of any other organisation or institution.Hosted by Mark Martin.With Jon Cresswell.Edited and produced by Mark Martin.Music: Throughout History available via Podcastle.Audio: Mixed using Podcastle.Cover Art and images created using Canva and Canva DreamLab AI. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.