The Spy Who Gave London its Christmas Tree | Episode 1 Hosted by Indira Varma and Raza Jaffrey | Released December 19, 2024
Introduction: Exile and Resolve
Timestamp: [00:14]
In June 1940, as World War II intensifies, the Norwegian King Haakon VII finds himself in a precarious situation. Hiding in a remote wood cabin in northern Norway, the aging monarch is urged by his minister to flee to Britain to avoid capture by the Nazis. Despite the imminent danger, King Haakon resists, expressing his unwavering duty to his nation and its people.
Notable Quote:
"The liberty and independence of the Norwegian people are my duty. To leave is to fail in that duty."
– King Haakon VII [00:30]
Ultimately, King Haakon VII decides to relocate to Britain, believing that his presence there can continue to inspire and lead the Norwegian resistance.
The Secret Mission: Sabotage in Norway
Timestamp: [00:54]
Two and a half years later, in November 1942, the story shifts to Mons Kluben, a 23-year-old Norwegian sailor, now part of a covert British-Norwegian mission. Kluben and his team embark on a perilous reconnaissance mission aboard a British Royal Navy motor torpedo boat, designed for stealth and rapid attacks, dubbed the "Spitfires of the sea."
Mission Objectives:
- Navigate the treacherous Norwegian coast undetected.
- Gather intelligence on sabotaging a pyrite mine essential for Nazi ammunition production.
- Disrupt enemy operations to aid the Norwegian resistance and the Allied war effort.
Notable Quote:
"Norway, here we come."
– Mons Kluben [00:59]
Kluben is driven by the hope of bringing something positive back to uplift King Haakon and the Norwegian spirit during a bleak wartime Christmas.
Building the Tradition: The Christmas Tree Initiative
Timestamp: [05:23]
Amidst their dangerous mission, the crew yearns for a semblance of normalcy and festive cheer. Kluben and his fellow sailors decide to retrieve Christmas trees from the Norwegian landscape to brighten their spirits and honor their exiled king.
Key Events:
- Tree Gathering: The crew secures two Christmas trees—one for their mess hall in Shetland and another as a gift to King Haakon.
- Near Capture: While cutting down the trees, the team narrowly escapes detection by German patrols, heightening the tension and urgency of their mission.
- Symbolic Gesture: The act of bringing Christmas trees becomes a powerful symbol of hope and resilience, strengthening the bond among the crew and their commitment to their homeland.
Notable Quote:
"I miss having a tree. Christmas is so sad without a proper tree."
– Norwegian Sailor [15:07]
This initiative not only serves as a morale booster but also lays the foundation for a long-standing tradition between Norway and Britain.
Operation Khartoun: Intelligence and Action
Timestamp: [18:13]
With intelligence successfully gathered, Admiral Norman Denning of British Naval Intelligence briefs Ian Fleming, the creator of James Bond and leader of British operations. The information from Kluben's mission is pivotal for Operation Khartoun, aimed at sabotaging the Pyrite mine in Saagvork.
Key Developments:
- Operation Planning: Detailed strategies are formulated to disrupt Nazi ammunition production.
- Recognition of Heroism: Admiral Denning and Fleming acknowledge the bravery of the Norwegian team, emphasizing the importance of their contributions to the war effort.
Notable Quote:
"Operation Khartoun is the mission to destroy the mine in Saagvorg."
– Admiral Norman Denning [26:04]
The success of this mission exemplifies the critical role of espionage and sabotage in weakening enemy operations during the war.
The Festive Gesture in Trafalgar Square
Timestamp: [26:04]
In a celebratory aftermath, Ian Fleming orchestrates a memorable event in Trafalgar Square to mark the successful mission and honor the Norwegian crew. Utilizing flares and local resources, they transform a modest Christmas tree into a beacon of festive cheer, symbolizing the enduring alliance between Norway and Britain.
Key Moments:
- Creativity Under Pressure: Lacking fairy lights, the crew ingeniously uses flares to illuminate the Christmas tree, creating a striking visual display.
- Camaraderie and Tradition: The shared toast with aquavit and the playful banter among the spies reinforce the camaraderie and the establishment of a new tradition.
- Public Appreciation: Passersby are charmed by the illuminated tree and the festive ambiance, unaware of the intricate espionage efforts behind the gesture.
Notable Quote:
"Merry Christmas to all."
– Norwegian Sailor Cluben [34:57]
This act not only boosts morale but also cements the tradition of Norway gifting a Christmas tree to London, a gesture that continues to this day.
King Haakon VIII's Heartwarming Receipt
Timestamp: [36:53]
In January 1943, King Haakon VII receives the Christmas tree as a heartfelt token of gratitude from his brave men. The tree serves as a tangible reminder of the Norwegian resistance and the unwavering support from those fighting to liberate Norway.
Key Events:
- Emotional Reception: The King is moved by the gesture, seeing it as a symbol of hope and resilience.
- Formal Recognition: King Haakon publicly acknowledges the bravery and dedication of the Norwegian sailors, reinforcing the bond between the monarchy and its subjects.
Notable Quote:
"Thank you and your men for their service and their bravery. And a very Merry Christmas to you as well."
– King Haakon VII [35:45]
This moment encapsulates the profound impact of their mission, transforming a covert operation into a lasting tradition of gratitude and celebration.
Legacy: Annual Traditions and Liberation
Timestamp: [36:53]
The successful mission and the heartfelt gift inaugurate an annual tradition where Norway donates a large Christmas tree to Trafalgar Square every year, symbolizing the enduring friendship and mutual support between Norway and Britain during and after the war.
Post-War Developments:
- Sabotage Success: In January 1943, the intelligence gathered led to the successful sabotage of the Pyrite mine, significantly hindering Nazi ammunition production.
- Ongoing Tradition: In both 1943 and 1944, subsequent missions continued the tradition of gifting Christmas trees, reinforcing the spirit of unity and gratitude.
- Liberation and Return: Norway was liberated on May 8, 1945, and King Haakon VII returned home on June 7, 1945, marking the end of his five-year exile.
Notable Quote:
"Norway was finally liberated on May 8, 1945. King Haakon returned home on June 7 that year after exactly five years in exile."
– Narrator [35:45]
Today, the tradition persists with modern enhancements, such as the use of fairy lights, maintaining the symbolic connection established by those brave men during the war.
Conclusion: The Enduring Symbol of Hope
Timestamp: [38:04]
"The Spy Who Gave London its Christmas Tree" masterfully intertwines espionage, sacrifice, and the enduring human spirit. Through the brave actions of Mons Kluben and his crew, a simple Christmas tree became a powerful symbol of hope, resilience, and international solidarity. This episode not only highlights the critical role of intelligence operations in World War II but also celebrates the traditions born from courage and camaraderie.
Final Thoughts: The episode underscores how small gestures can have profound and lasting impacts, shaping traditions that honor the past while inspiring future generations. The Christmas tree tradition remains a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made and the friendships forged in the darkest times.
Credits and Acknowledgments
The episode was meticulously researched and produced with contributions from historians and experts, ensuring an accurate and engaging portrayal of historical events. Special thanks to Louise Byrne, Clara Ellefson, Maureen Ergland, Susan Scott, and the entire production team for their dedication and excellence in storytelling.
Join the Conversation: Listeners are encouraged to share their spy story ideas by emailing thespywho@wondery.com, fostering a community of history enthusiasts and storytelling aficionados.
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