Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Unit:

F Section, Special Operations Executive (SOE), British Government

Awarded on:

November 14th, 1954

Awarded posthumously.

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Lieutenant

Unit:

F Section, Special Operations Executive (SOE), British Government

Awarded on:

February 28th, 1946

Citation:
"This officer started resistance work in 1940, and helped a number of escaped Allied prisoners and airmen. In 1942 he cntacted British organisers, and volunteered to carry out railway sabotage. He took part in several operations against railways in the ORLEANS, BOURGES(?) and CHATEAUROUX areas, and distinguished himself by his great courage and daring.

Early in 1943 SIMON was given the task of organising parachute receptions in the SARTRE department. In this area he established an efficient circuit and personally directed a large number of reception operations. He was constantly pursued by the Gestapo, and narrowly escaped arrest on several occasions. He finally became so seriously compromised that he was forced to leave FRANCE. He came to England in the autumn of 1943, and volunteered to return to France by parachute. After a period of training he was dropped into BRITTANY to start a new circuit there. He was arrested soon after his arrival. He was taken to the Gestapo Headquarters in PARIS, where he underwent apalling tortures but judging from results, without giving any information to the enemy. He was seen by fellow prisoners in a terrible condition, bruised and covered with blood.

In August 1944 Lt. SIMON was deported to Germany, There has been no definite news of him since, but according to unconfirmed reports he is alive in the Russian zone.

This officer gave evidence of magnificent courage and the utmost devotion to the Allied cause during his long service in the French resistance, and his fortitude and endurance under severe torture are worthy of great praise.

It is recommended that Lieutenant SIMON be awarded the Military Cross."

8th Dec '45.