The year 1943 quickly approached. Winter finally found its way to Stalag 13 in earnest. A foot of snow fell in one evening. While a drop in the bucket as far as some parts of Germany was concerned, it was enough to make the POW's miserable. The guards with the misfortune of duty during the storm suffered the brunt of the Snow Queen. Hogan's men were tasked with snow removal duties.
Klink was in no mood for an extended roll call. Satisfied all prisoners were present, he hastily dismissed the men. Stalag 13 possessed one truck with a plow, a 120-horsepower Bussing-NAG, which labored to clear a path for the vehicles. Hogan watched as it piled snow in the middle of the compound rather than near fencing. He knew such trucks proved useful to the Nazis as they helped clear supply lines and allowed for easy troop transport in snow-burdened regions.
When all was said and done, the prisoners took to various activities including king of the mountain and snowmen building contests. Hogan laughed in spite of himself at the playfulness. Even if he did parade the troops, he certainly would not on a day such as this one.
The arrival of the New Year had a way of signaling the onset of additional depression. It meant another year without a decisive defeat. It meant another year stuck behind barbed wire. It also meant Hogan had to work harder. Kinchloe arrived, which (hopefully) meant new orders. Hogan was not disappointed.
London confirmed a Heer general named Albert Strohkirch had vital battle plans to relay. Strohkirch did not support Hitler but also failed to go public with his true feelings. He had been feeding information to the Allies for several months – information that proved extremely reliable. Strohkirch was currently traveling and due in Hammelburg. He was scheduled to check into the Schloss Saaleck Hotel in town.
Hogan said, "Well, looks like Klink needs to hold one of his famous parties."
"A party? He has the worst parties," said Kinchloe. "Besides, why would Strohkirch come?"
Hogan said, "Good thought. I don't want Burkhalter extending an invitation either. He might just hop in a car and come down."
Schultz excitedly approached the two men shouting, "Colonel Hogan! Colonel Hogan! The Kommandant wants to see you right away."
Hogan said, "We're busy. We're planning a New Year's party."
Schultz said, "What a coincidence! That's what he wants you to do for him."
Hogan slyly asked, "Why should I help him?"
Schultz teased, "Mister Big Shot wants to impress his old friend. They used to be classmates a long time ago but now his friend is going to the Russian Front."
Hogan said, "And that's supposed to be a good thing?"
Schultz said, "I understand his friend volunteered."
"I see," said Hogan. "I take it Frau Linkmeyer met him."
Schultz said, "Naughty, naughty."
Hogan said, "I couldn't resist." He flashed his famous smile and headed to Klink's office. He suspected it was too late to book a party at the Schloss Saaleck Hotel but decided it was worth a shot. The hotel was an old establishment and originally built as a castle centuries ago. Hogan entered Klink's office and sat while the Kommandant finished a telephone call.
Listening in on the conversation yielded little information. Hogan felt slight concern that Klink invited General Burkhalter to the gathering. The last thing Hogan needed was the Heer officer attending a party where Hogan had to collect information. He had done it before but Burkhalter was no fool.
Klink hung up the phone and smiled, "Ah, Hogan! Just the man I want to see."
Hogan said, "Something tells me I'm not going to like this."
Klink said, "I putting together a little party for New Year's. I want a few of your men to work as waiters. They'll receive wages, of course."
Hogan laughed, "You've got to be kidding."
Klink said, "Really! You don't seem to have a problem attending my little parties."
Hogan said, "No guarantees. What's up with this last minute party?"
Klink said, "Well, Hogan, since you asked, my old classmate is coming to town. He's visiting his father before he heads off to the Russian Front."
Hogan teased, "What did he do?"
"Do? He didn't do anything," said Klink. "He actually volunteered to go. He wants to excite the war effort on the east. I want to show him a good time."
Hogan posed, "So you're bringing him here? Why not hold the party in town?"
Klink said, "I've already taken care of that. I'm holding it at the Schloss Saaleck Hotel."
Hogan took note of the location. It was too much of a coincidence. He asked, "Who is this friend of yours?"
Klink said, "He's a very dear friend of mine, General Albert Strohkirch. We were best of friends. We've managed to stay in touch over the years. He's a very brave infantry officer. I've already invited Colonel Wagner. He is most eager to meet Albert. Hilda is inviting some of her friends too."
Hogan thought it was incredible good fortune that the man he had to meet was Klink's old friend. Klink pulled out an old photo album and began showing Hogan pictures from his days at school. Klink pointed out Kronman but did not linger on the subject considering what happened to his old classmate. He also pointed out Stofle, another former classmate with a misfortunate situation.
Then he pointed out Strohkirch, a man opposite in Klink in every way imaginable. Strohkirch was large and athletically built as well as the typical blonde haired blue-eyed warrior. Klink recounted some of the legends that surrounded the man. Klink was sparing no expense for the party.
Hogan said, "Alright, since it means so much to you, I'll ask the men."
Hogan returned to the barracks and found the men playing cards. He discussed the mission including the fortuitousness of Klink's party to honor his friend General Albert Strohkirch. Given the recent string of misfortunes, there was a certain amount of doubt. Hogan considered that as well, but Klink showed him pictures of Strohkirch.
The men agreed to help, of course, as it was a rare opportunity for a paying job. Usually, they traded services for needed goods or information gathering purposes. Perhaps it was just incredibly good luck. LeBeau was happy he did not have to do the cooking.
Carter said, "Just think of it! Pretty girls!"
Saunders said, "Hey! What about me?"
Carter said, "Well, you're a girl, just not a girl girl."
Saunders said, "And what's that supposed to mean?"
Hogan warned, "Careful, Carter."
Carter said, "You're not a girl like Fraulein Hilda."
Saunders bellowed, "Oh really?" Several of the men let out whistles mimicking bombs dropping and then simulated the explosion sounds.
Carter said, "Uh, I think I have to build a snowman."
Newkirk slapped Carter across the head with his hat and said, "Blimey, Andrew, just take the coward's way out of this one, why don't you?"
Hogan said, "She's still a colonel."
"Girl rank doesn't count like men's rank," said Carter. The men repeated the whistling and explosion sounds.
Saunders calmly said, "I see. Well, Technical Sergeant Carter, remember this little fact. Women know how to get even. And we can hold onto things for a long time until we find that sweet, perfect moment to do just that. It might be a day, a week, a year, five years later, but we do it."
Hogan snapped, "Carter, apologize."
Carter said, "For what?"
As Saunders suddenly stood, Carter bolted out the door. Hogan said nothing as the nurse gave merry chase. Kinchloe said, "He's in a world of hurt."
LeBeau asked, "Why didn't Klink invite her?"
Hogan said, "Even Klink isn't that stupid. Burkhalter is convinced she's some kind of Mata Hari. Don't get me wrong. Klink likes having her around but he isn't going to let her out of camp. Even I don't trust her. The first opportunity she sees ka-ching! She's out the door."
Baker said, "I think you're wrong, Colonel." Hogan looked at him incredulously. Baker continued, "She could escape camp anytime she wants just by using the tunnels but doesn't for the sake of our operation. I think you can trust her to a certain extent."
Hogan nodded his head, "Fair enough."
Newkirk asked, "What's the plan? How do we establish contact with Strohkirch?"
Hogan said, "Basic code phrase situation. Is it teatime in Berlin? Only when it's not in London."
Newkirk said, "Bloody hell. Who came up with that? Must have been some yank."
Carter rushed into the room and exclaimed, "Saved by Schultz!"
Hogan said, "It's not nice to upset the fraulein."
Carter sat at the table and said, "One of the guards took a spill coming down from the tower. They think he broke his ankle. Florence is taking a look at it."
Hogan said, "Carter, it doesn't sound the same when you call her Florence."
The notion of one of the guards being hurt slightly concerned Hogan. He knew the schedule. Guards assigned to new tasks often proved extra vigilant until they settled into the new routine. Hogan did not have any men outside of the camp now; if he did, such vigilance could be detrimental to him.
Older men staffed POW camps. Occasionally, younger men were assigned but the High Command preferred to send such men to the front lines. While the older men had experience, they also had issues associated with their age. Some refused to accept the fact they needed glasses, so they were not the best of shots or able to distinguish blurs in the woods.
The notion of a guard taking a bad fall descending a tower did not surprise Hogan. Wondering who might replace the man proved more concerning. Klink was due for a rotation of guards fairly soon. The enemy rationale believed it a prudent measure to prevent the guards from becoming too friendly with the prisoners. It was always in groups of ten and averaged once every three months.
There were exceptions to the schedule, such as a man who suffered an injury that prevented him from continuing as a guard. Once, Klink sent a man to the Russian Front for defying his orders. Schultz tried to prevent such transfers to the east and cautioned his men accordingly. Certain men avoided the rotation, proven as reliable and deemed unlikely to form associations with the Allied soldiers.
Schultz entered and said, "Ah, Sergeant Wilson, you are needed in the infirmary."
Hogan said, "We don't provide medical services to guards."
Schultz said, "You're not required to but it is a nice gesture. I'll see to it he's compensated."
Hogan asked, "What about the fraulein?"
"She is already there and the Kommandant appreciates it," Schultz said in a prideful manner.
Hogan said, "I see. He really likes the fraulein."
Schultz said, "Maybe."
Hogan nodded to Wilson who left with Schultz. The idea of Klink having an interest in Saunders was a concern. Klink was born in 1894, if Hogan recalled correctly, so he was forty-eight years of age. Hogan was almost thirty-seven, his birthday approaching in three weeks. While it seemed unlikely the forty-three year old nurse would reciprocate such an interest, Hogan felt she might exploit it in her own effort to escape without endangering the operation.
There could be only one Kommandant and it had to be Klink. Anyone else and the operation would not enjoy the success that it did. Hogan decided he should investigate events in the infirmary, especially if Klink were present.
Yet he found his concerns unwarranted. Hogan watched as Saunders and Wilson splinted the guard's right leg. Schultz kept a careful eye on exactly what eluded Hogan. As sergeant of the guard, of course he had concern for one of his men. Lacking a camp doctor, the guards relied on medics. The Americans proved more skilled. The camp medic observed the procedure, a younger man who did not have such ability.
Hogan teased, "Giving aid and comfort to the enemy?"
Saunders said, "Is the price too big to justify requisitions for medical supplies for our men? All right, Sergeant Schultz. You may load him for transport to the hospital. If the hospital is so inclined, maybe they can send us some more supplies."
"It would be easier if we had a doctor on staff," said Schultz. "I'll see what I can manage."
Hogan waited until Schultz and the guards left. He said, "Schultz says Kommandant Klink is interested in you."
Saunders scoffed, "Hah! He's the enemy. Don't give me that look. I know you like him and he's more of an asset to you."
Hogan said, "Don't ruin that asset."
"Not to worry," said Saunders. "Why must you assume that I must be some kind of femme fatale?"
Hogan said, "You're in the espionage business and you're not married."
Saunders said, "I see. The Army frowns upon its nurses getting married. If you got married, your wife must accompany you as you move from post to post. If I were to get married, there is an expectation that I must remain with my husband, so I am no longer fit for service. I love being a nurse. The marriage offers don't come in like they used to, but one day I will settle down."
Hogan said, "I see."
Saunders said, "I will not do anything to jeopardize your operation. You have my word on that."
Satisfied, Hogan left. He needed to concentrate on Strohkirch. The man was headed to the Russian Front and possessed vital battle plans. As someone who regularly provided information to the Allies, Hogan did not understand why Strohkirch willingly accepted such an assignment. Perhaps his fellow officers suspected. Russia was no place to invade.
The weather turned mild despite the snow. Hogan noted the locations of the snow piles. While he did not like freezing temperatures, he could ill afford a rapid melting. Camp cleaning remained important. He returned to the barracks and saw men warming up after their wintry antics.
Newkirk said, "We're running low on wood. I'd better get some more from the shed."
Hogan said, "Assuming they'll let you have some."
Kinchloe said, "Ever since that fire, we're not able to con Klink into cutting details like we normally could."
Hogan said, "Just keep stealing wood from his stove. The forstmeister will just have more work for us in the spring."
Kinchloe said, "Sooner or later someone's going to get it in his head to start pilfering from the tunnels."
Hogan said, "Make sure no one does. We need those tunnels. I can't afford a cave in. The tunnels can handle a gradual melt but rapid melts are dangerous."
No matter what, Hogan had to ensure his men had a way to vacate rapidly the premises. If his operation faltered, he would do all he could to save his men. London would send the plane, of course, but it would take time. Hiding two hundred men in the woods simply was impractical.
As for the party, Hogan had his concerns. Things lined up too perfectly. He preferred planning but sometimes relied on luck. He had to ensure things went smoothly.
#HH#
Hogan had seen the Schloss Saaleck Hotel but never conducted business at the old establishment. The old castle had ivied walls that attempted to soften the harsh exterior. Inside, the owners did everything possible to create an inviting environment. Hogan was impressed with the dining hall Klink managed to secure for the party. A local ensemble played traditional music.
The guest list proved enviable for a man such as Klink. General Albert Strohkirch had a reputation as a cunning soldier and leader. Burkhalter ingratiated himself on the man, even though he must have met him on prior occasions in dealing with the High Command. Klink was enjoying his association with his old friend.
Wagner arrived and approached Hogan. He said, "This is unexpected. What brings you here?"
"Camp detail," said Hogan. He pointed out his men serving drinks to the assorted guests.
Wagner said, "You are not wearing a waiter's uniform."
Hogan said, "I'm sure the Kommandant is trying to loosen my tongue with alcohol."
Wagner gave a hearty laugh before making his way towards Strohkirch. Hogan realized it would be difficult to approach the general considering the attention others sought. He decided to bide his time with a fraulein, who seemed amused at the sight of an Allied pilot at such an event. Then he noticed Hochstetter's arrival in uniform accompanied by several men. Hogan decided to dance with the young lady.
Hochstetter calmly surveyed the crowd. No one seemed interested in the Gestapo's arrival, but the guests were primarily military men held in high regard. He noticed Hogan and made a direct beeline. Then he bellowed, "What is this man doing here?"
Hogan slyly said, "Dancing with the pretty fraulein. No cutting in." He smiled as he saw the vein in Hochstetter's forehead start bulging. If anyone needed a vacation, it was Hochstetter.
As Klink arrived he smiled, "Ah, welcome!" Hogan realized Klink was benefitting from the champagne. Klink said, "Always a pleasure!"
Hochstetter said, "Is it your habit to allow prisoners of war to attend parties outside of camp?"
Klink replied, "His men are on a detail."
Strohkirch approached with Burkhalter and said, "So this is the terrorist you spoke of. I see he has good taste in frauen. Ah, but I must know more about this man!"
Burkhalter said, "I'm certain the fraulein will indulge me in a dance." Perhaps the fraulein had other targets in mind but to decline a general was in poor taste. She went with Burkhalter.
Klink said, "Well, then, Colonel Hogan, be on your best behavior." He left and Strohkirch began walking with Hogan by his side. It took Hochstetter a moment before he continued walking about the room.
Strohkirch said, "Wilhelm likes you."
Hogan said, "He has his moments." He paused, looked around, and then quietly said, "Is it teatime in Berlin?"
Strohkirch said, "Only when it's not in London."
Hogan said, "Interesting."
Strohkirch said, "Wilhelm is not the best of officers but he is loyal. He would not understand. How is it that you are Papa Bear?"
Hogan said, "Very long story. You have something for me?"
Strohkirch said, "It is no coincidence the Gestapo is here."
Hogan said, "I take it you didn't volunteer for the Russian Front."
Strohkirch said, "Point of fact is I did. There are rumors of a traitor. I need to get out of Germany. I may be compromised."
Hogan said, "I see. There's been a lot of that lately."
Strohkirch said, "There is an agent in London. I know his real name. I've even met him. I don't know his cover but he threatens us. I must stop him."
Hogan said, "I see. So the battle plans?"
"All in my head," said Strohkirch. "How can you, a mere prisoner of war, help me escape?"
Hogan said, "I have ways."
Strohkirch said, "Good. I am in town a few days."
Hogan said, "I'll be in touch." He watched as Strohkirch resumed mingling with the crowd.
LeBeau approached and quietly asked, "Is everything good, Mon Colonel?"
Hogan took a fresh glass of champagne and quietly responded, "He wants to defect. He has the battle plans in his head. He claims there is an agent in London he can identify on sight."
LeBeau said, "We're not prepared to help him escape."
Hogan said, "Not tonight but we need a plan." Then his eyes noticed a peculiar sight. He saw Collins enter with two men, wearing Gestapo attire. He quietly said, "Looks like we have company."
LeBeau hissed, "What are they doing here?"
Hogan said, "Ruining everything I'm sure. I'll handle this."
Why was Collins still in the country? Hogan expected the man returned to London but for some reason remained in the area within his command operation's purview. He calmly approached the man and said, "Interesting."
"What is this man doing here?"
For a moment, Hogan thought Collins might be making mockery of Hochstetter. He said, "Enjoying the party. How about you?"
Collins quietly said, "Hochstetter's onto Strohkirch."
Hogan responded in kind, "He wants out of the country. I can't get him out of here tonight."
As Hochstetter approached, Collins said, "You are a cunning man and Klink is a fool to allow you at such an affair. Ah! I see you are curious about this as well."
Hochstetter said, "This man is a nuisance."
Hogan protested, "Hey!" Then he said, "This is really good champagne. You should try some." Unceremoniously, he took a large swallow of the champagne.
Collins said, "Tell me more about this gonculator."
Hogan smiled, "Not much to tell. It's only good for catching rabbits."
Collins said, "I see."
Hogan watched as Collins and Hochstetter began conversing. Hochstetter truly believed Collins was a Gestapo officer. He was perfect. Collins somehow inserted himself into the local community as a visiting officer on an inspection. Hochstetter did not like the intrusion but respected Collins in his delicate handling of the situation. Collins led away Hochstetter, not wishing to discuss certain matters in front of a mere prisoner. It was so authentically rendered that Hogan felt genuinely hurt by the comment.
The disadvantage to a party inside of an old fortress revealed itself as the air raid sirens blew. Hogan had no idea how many planes were in the vicinity. Lights dimmed and hotel staff lowered blackout curtains. Military men took it in stride while civilians grew concerned. Hogan managed to exchange a glance with Collins. Neither knew of any intended raids on Hammelburg. The danger quickly passed. The bomber squadron did not linger.
The lights went completely out, causing confusion in the room. It was unnecessary as the raid passed. When the lights came back on, Hogan focused. He looked around and saw the party slowly resume. He realized Strohkirch was gone as well as the Merry Men. The party did not immediately notice the absence of the guest of honor.
As midnight loomed, some noted Strohkirch was no longer in attendance. This alarmed Hochstetter, who immediately ordered a search. Hogan had to play it cool. Partygoers had mixed reactions. The clock continued ticking and midnight arrived. The initial reaction seemed stilted, but then the mood favored the celebration.
Briefly, there was a period of joyous dancing and carousing. Hogan hoped the Gestapo moved on to another concentrated area to search for Strohkirch. He sighed in relief as the party began to disperse. Military men had duties in the morning. Hogan sat on a couch and watched as his team helped the hotel staff with the cleaning. He casually listened as Burkhalter and Klink talked.
Burkhalter said, "Strange that General Strohkirch would leave before midnight."
Klink said, "I don't understand it. Everyone was having such a good time."
Burkhalter said, "I know. Klink, you did a good job tonight. Pity that it ended in such a manner."
Klink said, "It's not like Albert to leave."
Burkhalter shrugged his shoulders, "Perhaps he found a pretty fraulein." Then he said, "Hadn't you better get the prisoners back to camp?"
Klink sighed, "Of course, Herr General. It was a good party."
Hogan saw Wagner approach the two officers. Wagner said, "Ah, what an interesting evening. To think that General Strohkirch could have been abducted!"
Klink said, "Abducted?"
Wagner said, "He was last seen entering his room with a fraulein. The Gestapo found it in complete disarray. He's missing. It appears as if there was a struggle."
Burkhalter said, "Damn that Underground!"
Klink said, "I don't understand it. Albert was always so capable."
Burkhalter said, "The Gestapo is greatly feared but what have they done to justify such a fear? They were here and the Underground still managed to abduct General Strohkirch. Klink, there's nothing more that can be done here. Better get back to camp."
Klink said, "Yes, Herr General. Please keep me informed. Albert is a good friend. Oh, he's managed very well. What will become of his plans?"
Burkhalter said, "We carry on, of course. I think I will remain in Hammelburg and keep an eye on things. I don't trust the local Gestapo."
Wagner laughed, "You are a brave man, Herr General, to say such a thing."
Schultz began collecting prisoners. Hogan realized the guard was strangely absent most of the evening. He seemed tired. The men made light mockery as Schultz did his usual counting. There were only four prisoners to account for, which made it particularly amusing. Then he paraded the men to the waiting truck.
It was a cold ride back to camp. The men said little, tired from their exploits. Schultz hurried them to the barracks. As Hogan entered the barracks with his men, he saw the others sound asleep. The four men made their way quietly. Hogan nearly jumped in fright when Kinchloe called his name. Hogan said, "What is it Kinch?"
Kinchloe said, "We have a guest."
Hogan said, "Show me." Somehow, Hogan did not need to see it to believe it. Kinchloe led him into the tunnels to Strohkirch. He said, "We meet again."
"I did not know you had friends in the Gestapo," said Strohkirch.
Hogan said, "We're a diverse organization. I'm sorry the accommodations aren't as nice as the Schloss Saaleck Hotel."
Strohkirch said, "I am accustomed to hardship."
Hogan said, "I'm curious. What is it about you and Klink?"
Strohkirch said, "He may not be the best of officers but he has always proved himself a true friend. Does he know about all of this?"
Hogan said, "No. We like to keep him in the dark. No one escapes from Stalag 13 but in reality they do it all the time."
Strohkirch laughed, "I see. I shall miss Wilhelm." Hogan raised an eyebrow. Strohkirch continued, "He does not hold to the radical politics poisoning our people. I know he has settled with the idea of surviving the war. Pity, really, for he always underestimated himself. Ah, but he is a patriot."
Hogan asked, "How so?"
Strohkirch replied, "He loves his country. He simply lacks the backbone to take action such as me."
Hogan said, "Get some rest. We'll make the arrangements." He led Strohkirch to the unofficial hotel room inside the tunnels. Wood was sparse but he made sure to light the stove. Seeing that the general readied for bed, Hogan walked with Kinchloe to the radio. Baker manned the station but made way for Kinchloe.
Hogan asked, "How'd he get here?"
Kinchloe replied, "The Merry Men. They couldn't stay. Colonel Collins is going to do some things to throw Hochstetter off the trail. He did say he trusted you to take care of things from this point forward."
Hogan laughed, "I see. Better contact London and see if it's teatime."
"Wilco," said Kinchloe.