Prague’s network of helpers
January–May 1942
The operation depended on households, contacts and doctors working every day. It was a network of people with different roles, not one secret apartment.
Zelenka-Hajský sought further shelters, contacts, information and supplies, drawing on Sokol connections. The Růts provided the first Prague lodging; his organizational work helped create a wider network of households.
At the Moravec home, lodging combined with courier work and supplies. Marie Moravcová arranged food and contacts; her son Vlastimil helped with preparations. Other households, including the Nováks and the Fafeks, expanded the possibilities for shelter and assistance.
The parachutists also needed documents, medical care and the equipment hidden after landing. Jaroslav Piskáček helped with contacts and transport. The network enabled preparation of the attack while exposing helpers and their families to danger.
Reconnaissance of Heydrich’s movements identified a place where his car had to slow down. The domestic resistance warned of extensive consequences. Nevertheless, the operation continued towards carrying out its military mission.
Shelter
The first Prague refuge with the Růts.
Food and supplies
Marie Moravcová arranged food and contacts.
Courier links
Vlastimil maintained contacts and helped with preparations.
Medical care
He treated Kubiš at the Piskáčeks’, not in his own surgery.
Places
- Biskupcova 4 — the first Prague refuge and Zelenka’s network
The first refuge and Zelenka’s organizational assistance.
- The Moravec apartment — the principal Prague base
Lodging, courier links and supplies.
- The Novák apartment — a refuge in Libeň
Another refuge in Libeň.
- The Fafek apartment — shelter and a link to the crypt
Assistance from the Fafek household.
On 27 May, months of preparation converged on a bend in Libeň.