Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Awarded on:

July 13th, 1947

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Capitaine (Captain)

Awarded on:

1945

Recommendation:
"This officer landed by submarine with a wireless-operator in South West France on the 30th September 1943, and was the first agent to be sent to that area from North Africa. He was to instal himslef near the Spanish frontier, organise the reception of further agents arriving through Spai or by air, organise and train resistance groups in the coastal and frontier regions ond organise the reception and distribution of arms in the area.

Arriving within territory which, although a forbidden zone, was self-supporting and little touched by the German occupation, and whose population was notoriously apathic, Capitaine Ballini methodically built up his organisation.

Twelve agents received just before D-Day, were given all the assistance necessary to facilitate their journeys and installation throughout the South W was also responsible for the reception and distribution of large quantities of arms.

As a result of a series of arrests, Captitaine Ballini's identity became known to the Gestapo. He continued his clandestine work, however, and placed his long experience at the disposal of the allied Missions who arrived shortly before D-Day.

It is recommended that this Officer be appointed a member of the Order of the British Empire (Military Division) (Honorary).

Signed
Colin Gubbins
Major-General