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So Close to Freedom

A World War II Story of Peril and Betrayal in the Pyrenees

Jean-Luc E. Cartron

Publisher: University of Nebraska Press
Imprint: Potomac Books
Published: 04/2019
Pages: 248
Subject: History
eBook ISBN: 9781640121751

DESCRIPTION

During World War II many escape-line organizations contributed to the Allied cause by funneling hundreds of servicemen trapped behind enemy lines out of occupied Europe. As the Germans tightened their noose around the escape lines and infiltrated them, the risk of discovery only grew for the servicemen who, in ever-increasing numbers, needed safe passage across the Pyrenees. In early 1944 two important escape-line organizations operated in Toulouse in southwestern France, handing over many fugitives to French passeur Jean-Louis Bazerque ("Charbonnier"). Along with several of his successful missions, Charbonnier's only failure as a passeur is recounted in gripping detail in So Close to Freedom. This riveting story recounts how Charbonnier tried to guide a large group of fugitives—most of them downed Allied airmen, along with a French priest, two doctors, a Belgian Olympic skater, and others—to freedom across the Pyrenees. Tragically, they were discovered by German mountain troopers just shy of the Spanish border. Jean-Luc E. Cartron offers the first detailed account of what happened, showing how Charbonnier operated, his ties with "the Françoise" (previously "Pat O'Leary") escape-line organization, and how the group was betrayed and by whom. So Close to Freedom sheds light not only on the complex and precarious work of escape lines but also on the concrete, nerve-racking experiences of the airmen and those helping them. It shows the desperation of all those seeking passage to Spain, the myriad dangers they faced, and the lengths they would go to in order to survive.   Purchase the audio edition.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Jean-Luc E. Cartron is an adjunct research assistant professor of biology at the University of New Mexico. He is the editor or coauthor of several books, including a biography of his grandfather, a prominent member of the Resistance in western France during World War II.  

REVIEWS

"Hundreds of Allied evaders achieved freedom thanks to the selfless dedication, courage, and sacrifice—often at mortal cost—of those who put together and managed all that was needed. This is the basis for Jean-Luc Cartron's impeccably researched book. It deserves to take its place among the finest historical accounts of that tragic time."—Evelyn Le Chene, author of Silent Heroes: The Bravery and Devotion of Animals in War



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