Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

OSS Beggar Circuit, Special Operations, Office of Strategic Services (OSS), U.S. Government

Awarded on:

1945

Awarded for:

Operation Jedburgh

"For extraordinary heroism in connection with military operations against an armed enemy while serving with the Office of Strategic Services, in action against enemy forces from 10 April 1944 to 10 September 1944. Captain Basset was parachuted into France, in civilian clothing, as an organizer of resistance forces in the Department of Oise. He overcame the serious obstacle of making himself known and accepted, organized the various groups, trained them in the use of explosives and in the techniques of demolition, planned their missions and reconnoitered the grounds. Captain Basset organized and partially equipped resistance forces with a strength of 700 men whose sabotage activities against telephone, power and rail lines were so successful that telephone communication within the Oise Department throughout June, July and August was impossible, and the lack of power seriously hampered German production. Immediately after D-Day, Captain Basset carried on such effective sabotage against rail lines that movements of both troops and equipment were greatly impeded. In addition, Captain Basset overlooked no opportunity for reporting significant military intelligence. Captain Basset's intrepid actions, personal bravery and zealous devotion to duty exemplify the highest traditions of the military forces of the United States and reflect great credit upon himself, his unit, and the United States Army."

Headquarters, European Theater of Operations, U.S. Army, General Orders No. 33