“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 copies of this order and copies made thereof.”
It is signed, “The Chief of the High Command of the Armed Forces, by order of Jodl.”
Thereafter follows a distribution list and then the supplementary order itself, signed by Hitler. I will start reading the first two paragraphs of the supplementary order which appear at the bottom of Page 1 of the translation:
“I have been compelled to issue strict orders for the destruction of enemy sabotage troops and to declare non-compliance with these orders severely punishable. I deem it necessary to announce to the competent commanding officers and commanders the reasons for this decree.
“As in no previous war, a method of destruction of communications behind the front, intimidation of the populace working for Germany, as well as the destruction of war-important industrial plants in territories occupied by us has been developed in this war.”