The SOE thread, special operations executive.

[Rogerd]

Hi to all,

I was thinking we are missing a thread about the SOE, special operations executive. A see lots of threads about one item, or with questions about SOE.
So why not start a thread to post soe items. So we can gather all knowledge?

As there is a fine line between SOE, PWE and MI6, and these organisations often worked together, PWE and MI6 related items are welcome also!

A hope lots of collectors will contribute to this thread

[Rogerd]

As a starter: some well known items, wireless sets used by SOE agents

First a type A mkIII radio set used by a Belgian SOE agent, working for the sabotage group 'G':

[Totenhead]

Nice item ! Imagine walking through a road block with that in ones hands !

[Rogerd]

Indeed, not for someone nervous...

[Rogerd]

Next is a B2 radio, or type 3 MK II in his drop box.
These boxes are waterproof, so after parachuting them they could be burried or thrown into a ditch. When all was quit and transport was arranged it could be picked up later.
This one is also used by the same agent for the Belgian sabotage group 'G'. Most radio operators had two, or sometimes three radios.

[Totenhead]

Nice item !

[seebee1]

A small SOE display used for the 50th anniversary of the movie "Carve her name with Pride" held at the British Film Institute.

[Rogerd]

Very nice items, seebee!!

What type of gloves are in the display? I have read that they often used RAF gloves when parachuted into occupied Europe. Are these RAF?

[seebee1]

They are an RAF Pattern and came with SOE provenance, also complete with silk liners. This further image includes other SOE items.

[Rogerd]

Some very rare pieces in this display!

[Rogerd]

Under the sf wing, is that a german stamp, made in england? Do you have a close up?

[Niederlande]

Amazing SOE items shown here

[seebee1]

The stamp (made in England) is shown in my M.I.9. Escape & Evasion Thread Brecht, but will attach images here as well. Regards, Clive.

[Rogerd]

Very interesting item and super rare!

[Rogerd]

Here another radio, the famous B2 radio, or type 3 MK II
With the complete sparebox.