Podcast Summary: The Rest Is Classified – Episode 73: Destroying the Nazi Nuclear Program: Saving the World From War (Ep 2)
Introduction
In Episode 73 of The Rest Is Classified, hosts David McCloskey and Joachim Ronenberg delve deep into one of World War II's most daring and impactful sabotage missions: Operation Gunnerside. This operation aimed to cripple the Nazi nuclear program by destroying the Vemork heavy water plant in Norway. Through meticulous storytelling, the episode unravels the complexities, risks, and triumphs of this covert mission, highlighting both strategic intelligence and personal heroism.
Operation Gunnerside: An Overview
David McCloskey sets the stage by recounting the team's covert journey toward the Vemork heavy water plant:
"We could hear the humming of the machinery and we saw it faintly in the moonlight... The whole time we heard the humming from the target, hoping that in about two hours time it would be quiet." [01:24]
The mission's objective was clear: destroy the heavy water production cylinders to delay or halt the Nazis' pursuit of an atomic bomb, potentially altering the course of the war.
The Grueling Ascent and Infiltration
Joachim Ronenberg provides an in-depth narration of the team's challenging approach:
"The plan is they're first going to go down the slope of the gorge... rock climbing, looking for hand holds... carrying the kit." [03:16]
Navigating through waist-deep snow, crossing an icy river bridge, and scaling a steep cliff face, the team demonstrated extraordinary physical endurance and determination. Their journey culminated at the railway line near the plant, perceived as relatively unguarded amidst the cacophony of the humming hydroelectric facility.
Execution of Sabotage
The operation's heart lies in the sabotage itself. Detailed intelligence played a crucial role:
"The grouse team has got sources inside who are telling them what's going on when things happen... they can see the entrance to the room where the heavy water cylinders are." [06:37]
Despite encountering locked doors, the team's preparedness allowed them to access the facility via a duct tunnel. As they lay explosives around the heavy water cylinders, an unexpected complication arose:
"They see the head of one of the other members of his sabotage team poking through a window... Jochen pulls him in and cuts himself pretty badly." [10:47]
Ultimately, they set the charges with two-minute fuses but opted for 30-second fuses to ensure prompt detonation:
"If you're going to do it, do it right." [12:02]
The explosion, though not as dramatic as Hollywood portrayals, effectively destroyed the heavy water stocks without alerting the Nazis immediately.
Escape Amidst Pursuit
Post-sabotage, the team's escape was fraught with peril. As sirens wailed, they navigated treacherous terrains:
"Entire German division is sent to chase them... 10,000 Nazi troops." [14:47]
Splitting into two groups, they endured two weeks of relentless skiing through mountains and forests, evading enemy forces. Despite injuries and close calls, their perseverance saw them safely reach Sweden, where they blended in by claiming refugee status and shedding their military gear.
Impact on the Nazi Nuclear Program
The immediate aftermath saw the Nazis grappling with the loss of heavy water stocks:
"General von Falkenhorst... smiles and says, 'This is the most splendid coup I have seen in the...'" [23:04]
However, the sabotage primarily caused delays rather than a complete halt:
"Delaying someone's journey down the wrong path means by definition, even if they're going to end up on the right one, that you've made the whole thing slower." [29:25]
While the heavy water destruction impeded their reactor plans, it inadvertently reinforced their conviction to pursue atomic research, potentially via alternative methods like uranium enrichment.
Personal Stories and Heroism
A poignant aspect of the episode is the focus on Joachim Ronenberg's personal reflections and legacy:
"He describes himself as extremely lucky... they have these new ones with these people with whom he's faced death." [34:28]
Ronenberg's post-war life as a journalist and his enduring bond with the UK underscore the profound personal sacrifices and relationships forged during the mission. His humility and continued recognition of the mission's significance highlight the understated heroism of those involved.
Concluding Insights
David McCloskey and Joachim Ronenberg conclude by emphasizing the strategic value of Operation Gunnerside:
"The value of sabotage... sabotage requires boots on the ground." [30:18]
The episode underscores the intricate blend of intelligence, bravery, and meticulous planning required for successful covert operations. It also draws parallels to modern sabotage efforts, illustrating the enduring relevance of such missions in shaping global events.
Notable Quotes
- "Whatever happens, blow the place. Even if you're going to die doing it, you've got to do it." – Joachim Ronenberg [05:37]
- "If you're going to do it, do it right." – Joachim Ronenberg [12:02]
- "He was talking about this escape on skis... it was the best skiing weekend I ever had." – Joachim Ronenberg [16:51]
- "We are a gang of friends doing a job together." – Joachim Ronenberg [34:30]
Final Thoughts
Episode 73 of The Rest Is Classified masterfully intertwines historical facts with personal narratives, offering listeners a comprehensive understanding of Operation Gunnerside's impact. Through detailed recounting and insightful discussions, McCloskey and Ronenberg celebrate the valor and strategic acumen that contributed to thwarting the Nazi nuclear ambition, underscoring the operation's pivotal role in shaping the war's outcome.