Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Captain

Unit:

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

Awarded on:

August 30th, 1945

Recommendation:
"This officer was landed in France by sea in August 1941 to build up a circuit in Southern France. He was arrested in CANNES by the Vichy Police a few days after his arrival, but after an exhaustive interrogation he convinced the authorities that his papers were genuine, and he was released.

Basin immediately began recruiting men for his circuit, at this stage a delicate and hazardous task and demanding the greates skill and judgement. He organised a number of independent cells covering the departments of BOUCHES du RHONE, VAR, BASSES ALPES and ALPES MARITIMES, ready to begin sabotage work.

He was a t first handicapped by a lack of wireles communication with LONDON, but when an operator was sent to him and he was able to arrange for the reception of arms and explosives, he began sabotage operations. These were necessarily on a small scale, but the results achieved included the destruction of 15 Italian lorries, the destruction of the crushing machine in the Bauxite works at Le LUC Le CANNET, and damage to a number of railway trucks and electricity supply lines. In addition to this work, BASIN organised the reception of agents by felucca and submarine on the Mediterranean coast.

In August 1942 BASIN was again arrested. He escaped after several months in gaol, and although his health had been seriously impaired, he started to build up a new circuit. He was eventually recalled to LONDON and returned at the end of 1942.

A brave and efficient organiser, BASIN played an important part in laying the foundations for the future successful development of resistance in FRANCE. He showed admirable courage and perseverance in the face of danger, and frequently risked his life for the sake of others. It is strongly recommended that he be appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (Military Division)."

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Capitaine (Captain)

Awarded on:

October 15th, 1945