Mission Read Ahead

Before you embark on your tour, it is best to familiarize yourself with what will be covered. The following videos provide a solid foundation of key pillars and topics that will be discussed, including the intriguing Catoctin Mountain Story and the significant events surrounding Operation Paperclip and the Ritchie Boys. They will give you a foundational understanding of what will be referred to as the Fifth Column.

Check out this great video that dives into the Catoctin Mountain Story, exploring fascinating connections to Operation Paperclip and the Ritchie Boys.

As the US transitions from a WWII tactical mindset to a Cold War strategy the role of the Ritchie Boys changes. This an excellent primer to help provide context on P.O. Box 1142, Fort Ritchie and Operation Paperclip.

Tom Lehrer recorded his famous "Wernher Von Braun" song in July 1965. This is a satirical take on the rocket scientist and his role in the US space program. The song humorously contrasts Von Braun's work on Nazi V-2 rockets with his contributions to NASA's moon landing efforts.  Von Braun was among many Nazi scientists who were brought to the United States under the cover of Operation Paperclip.