“6.
I will hold responsible under Military Law, for failing to carry out this order, all commanders and officers who either have neglected their duty of instructing the troops about this order, or acted against this order where it was to be executed.
“(S) Adolf Hitler” (498-PS).
This order was issued by the OKW in twelve copies, and the distribution included the three supreme commands and the principal field commands. (498-PS)
On the same day Hitler issued a supplementary order (503-PS) for the purpose of explaining the reasons for the issuance of the basic order. In this explanation, Hitler pointed out that allied commando operations had been extraordinarily successful in the destruction of rear communications, intimidation of laborers, and destruction of important war plants in occupied areas. Among other things Hitler stated in this explanation:
“Added to the decree concerning the destruction of terror and sabotage troops (OKW/WFst No. 003830/42 Top Secret of 18 October 1942) a supplementary order of the Fuehrer is enclosed.
“This order is intended for commanders only and must not under any circumstances fall into enemy hands.
“The further distribution is to be limited accordingly by the receiving bureaus.
“The bureaus named in the distribution list are held responsible, for the return and destruction of all distributed pieces of the order and copies made thereof.
“The Chief of the High Command of