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Julia Child and Paul Child: Their Extraordinary Adventures in the OSS

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A Covert Affair: Julia Child and Paul Child in the OSS

by Jennet Conant

4 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	2874 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Word Wise	:	Enabled
Print length	:	417 pages

Julia Child And Paul Child Wearing OSS Uniforms During World War II A Covert Affair: Julia Child And Paul Child In The OSS

Julia Child, renowned for her groundbreaking cookbook "Mastering the Art of French Cooking" and her beloved cooking shows, embarked on an extraordinary adventure during World War II. Together with her husband, Paul Child, she served in the Office of Strategic Services (OSS),a precursor to the CIA, playing a vital role in the war effort.

Julia Child: The OSS Research Assistant

Born Julia McWilliams in 1912, Julia Child began her career in the OSS in 1942. Aspiring to be a writer, she initially worked in the Research and Analysis Branch as a research assistant for the Ceylon Desk. Her task was to gather and analyze intelligence on the Japanese occupation of Ceylon (now Sri Lanka).

julia child in the oss

Drawing upon her academic background in history and her interest in world affairs, Julia immersed herself in her work, poring over documents and interviewing informants. She exhibited exceptional analytical skills, producing insightful reports that contributed to the OSS's understanding of the enemy.

Paul Child: The Wartime Intelligence Officer

Paul Child, a prominent artist and photographer, joined the OSS in 1943. He specialized in photo intelligence, a crucial field for gathering information about enemy positions and troop movements.

paul child in the oss

Stationed in Ceylon and later in China, Paul used his artistic talents to analyze aerial photographs, identifying key landmarks and detecting signs of enemy activity. His keen eye for detail and analytical mind proved invaluable to the OSS's reconnaissance efforts.

Their Work in the OSS's Secret Intelligence Branch

In 1944, Julia and Paul Child were transferred to the OSS's Secret Intelligence Branch (SIB),responsible for clandestine operations and espionage. They worked in the Special Operations Division, tasked with disrupting enemy supply lines and supporting resistance movements in Axis-occupied territories.

julia and paul child in the sib

Julia's diverse skills, including her ability to speak French and German, made her well-suited for this role. She utilized her knowledge of food and nutrition to develop experimental rations for OSS agents operating behind enemy lines.

Paul, with his expertise in cartography and photography, created maps and fabricated documents to support espionage missions. His artistic talents also proved useful in designing disguises and counterfeiting enemy passports.

Their Contributions to the War Effort

Julia and Paul Child's contributions to the OSS were significant. Julia's research and analysis provided valuable insights into the Japanese occupation of Ceylon, aiding the OSS in planning operations and supporting Allied forces in the region. Paul's intelligence work in photo reconnaissance and espionage played a crucial role in gathering critical information and supporting covert operations.

In addition to their direct contributions to the war effort, Julia and Paul Child's experiences in the OSS had a profound impact on their personal lives and careers. Julia's wartime work sparked her interest in food and nutrition, which ultimately led to her pursuit of culinary arts. Paul's experience in espionage and intelligence influenced his later career as a photographer and art dealer.

Legacy of Service and Inspiration

The story of Julia and Paul Child in the OSS is a testament to their patriotism, ingenuity, and unwavering determination. Their contributions to the war effort were vital, yet largely overlooked until recently.

Their wartime experiences left an enduring legacy, not only in their personal lives but also in the world of food, espionage, and intelligence. Julia Child's legacy as a renowned chef and culinary icon is forever intertwined with her time in the OSS, where she first discovered her passion for food. Paul Child's contributions to photo reconnaissance and espionage remain an important chapter in the history of intelligence operations.

The story of Julia and Paul Child in the OSS is a powerful reminder of the extraordinary contributions that ordinary people can make in extraordinary times. Their legacy continues to inspire others to pursue their passions, embrace challenges, and serve their country with distinction.

A Covert Affair: Julia Child and Paul Child in the OSS

by Jennet Conant

4 out of 5