Operation Carpetbagger, U.S. aircraft initiated the airdrop of crucial supplies to guerrilla forces scattered across Western

Operation Carpetbagger was a covert and highly classified operation conducted by the United States during World War II. It involved the aerial delivery of supplies and agents to support resistance movements and conduct sabotage operations in occupied Western Europe. The operation played a crucial role in aiding and bolstering guerrilla forces fighting against Axis occupation.

Key aspects of Operation Carpetbagger include:

Objective: The primary objective of Operation Carpetbagger was to provide support to resistance movements in German-occupied territories by delivering supplies, equipment, and agents behind enemy lines. The operation aimed to disrupt enemy operations, gather intelligence, and assist local resistance groups in their efforts against the Axis powers.

Execution: The operation was carried out by a specialized air unit known as the Carpetbaggers, officially designated the 801st/492nd Bombardment Group. These units were part of the United States Army Air Forces (USAAF). The Carpetbaggers operated modified versions of the Consolidated B-24 Liberator bomber, which were equipped for night missions and covert operations.

Airdrops: The Carpetbaggers conducted airdrops of supplies, weapons, and operatives over occupied territories, particularly in France, Norway, Denmark, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The drops were often made in support of local resistance movements, including partisan groups and intelligence networks.

Personnel: The Carpetbaggers included both aircrews and specialized agents who were trained for unconventional warfare. The agents, often members of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS), were parachuted into enemy territory to work with local resistance fighters and conduct intelligence-gathering missions.

Cooperation with Resistance: The success of Operation Carpetbagger relied heavily on coordination with local resistance groups. The Carpetbaggers worked closely with these groups, providing them with the necessary resources to carry out acts of sabotage, gather intelligence, and harass enemy forces.

Secrecy and Security: Given the sensitive nature of the operation, security and secrecy were paramount. The missions were conducted under the cover of darkness, and crews were sworn to secrecy. The exact details of the operation were classified for many years after the war.

Legacy: Operation Carpetbagger contributed significantly to the success of the resistance movements in occupied Europe. It demonstrated the importance of unconventional warfare and covert operations in supporting the overall Allied strategy against the Axis powers.

The operation highlighted the effectiveness of combining aerial capabilities with local resistance efforts, showcasing the value of guerrilla warfare in disrupting enemy operations. The Carpetbagger missions served as a precursor to later special operations and unconventional warfare conducted by modern military and intelligence agencies.