The Rat Week operation signifies a pivotal shift in the SOE's strategy towards dealing with Nazi collaborators, bolstering morale among section heads after prior losses.
The introduction of the Wellrod pistol revolutionizes covert assassination tactics, providing SOE agents with a nearly silent weapon for discreet missions against enemy threats.
Deep dives
The Urgency of Operation Rat Week
The pivotal operation, known as Rat Week, aims to eliminate Nazi collaborators who have infiltrated the SOE networks, endangering the lives of covert agents. Brigadier Eric Mockler-Ferryman emphasizes the necessity of this operation after expressing disappointment in the SOE's inability to protect its agents. Each section chief is tasked with compiling a kill list of the most dangerous infiltrators to execute simultaneous assassinations in October. This bold strategy marks a turning point for the SOE, igniting a sense of purpose among the section heads that was previously overshadowed by the losses they had suffered.
The Role of Covert Weapons
The development of a silent firearm, the Wellrod pistol, signifies a significant leap in covert assassination capabilities. Major Hugh Reeves introduces this innovative weapon to Hardy Amies, highlighting its nearly silent operation, which is ideal for discreet missions. The Wellrod's design, resembling a metal tube, intrigues Amies, who envisions its application in targeting Nazi collaborators in the upcoming Rat Week. This weapon is an essential component of the strategy to act decisively against enemies who threaten SOE agents and their operations.
The Risks Faced by Agents
Jean-Philippe Janssens, an SOE agent under the codename CAF, navigates the tense environment of occupied Brussels while attempting to establish arms caches for the resistance. His encounters emphasize the constant danger SOE agents face from German patrols and collaborators, as he seeks assistance for downed RAF airmen. The precariousness of Janssens' position intensifies when he is eventually captured, exposing not only his identity but potentially the entire SOE network to German intelligence. This incident paints a grim picture of the stakes involved in espionage during wartime.
The Execution of Rat Week
As Rat Week commences, the Belgian resistance takes decisive actions against known Nazi collaborators, showcasing their commitment to countering oppression. Various assassinations occur across occupied Belgium, including the execution of critical figures like Prosper De Zeta, who had been a lethal adversary to the resistance. The simultaneous strikes send shockwaves through enemy ranks, demonstrating the effectiveness of the operation. These bold moves serve to remind collaborators of the resistance's resolve and the consequences of betrayal during the war.
Armed with a new secret weapon, Amies compiles a kill list to deal with Nazi collaborators, including the traitor taking down his agents one by one. Will the Belgians back his scheme?
