May 24th Correspondence

In a May 24th email exchange with Annette it was suggested that:

"I looked at your blog. A possible source of information about Pons mightbe in RG 498. There's a group of files about the activities of MIS-X(which I think is Military Intelligence Section X) which dealt with Escapeand Evasions, Internees, and Helpers. I have looked at the Dutch andBelgian helper files, and there MAY be a Portugeese helper file. Pons maybe identified somewhere in that group...a slim chance, but if you've gotextra time while you're at the Archives it might be worth looking into.Annette"

Unfortunately, an examination of the RG 498 MIS-X file proved unsuccessful. The Portguese Helper file was not located. It may not exist.

Squadron Diaries

In reply to a query regarding what was contained in the NARA folders I received the following from Annette:

"Byron,

The folders only have missions and operations material. The Groupand Squadron diaries are at the Archives on microfilm, though. I can giveyou the finding aids, if you want. What are you hoping will be there? Annette"

Research into the "diaries" was conducted. It was learned that the "diaries" are actually on microfilm and the original archive for these was the Air Force Historical Library at Maxwell AFB. Prior to this trip I actually acquired the appropriate roll of film from Maxwell.

Helper Files

In trying to determine who Col. (Colonel) Pons* worked for Annette Tison recommended, that while I was at NARA-II, I should examine Record Group (RG) 322.2.2, Records of Headquarters, Military Intelligence Section X (MIS-X), Escape and Evasion Section Detachment. I was to look for the Portugese Helper file in the theory that information about Col. Pons would be located there.

Unfortunately, the above referenced box did NOT contain a Portugese file. I did not examine the other files in the box.

I speculate that Col. Pons either was employed by the Portugese military or the US Military. He is one of two named officers that interrogated the interned Stamos crew.