On 21 November 1946 , Laatsman de Bailleul received from the President of the United States , Harry Truman , the Medal of Freedom with Silver Palm . The President 's decision was motivated by " meritorious achievements " that helped the United States to defeat the Nazis . Between January 1943 and February 1944 , Herman Laatsman showed exceptional abilities in commanding the French section of the Dutch-Paris network . Disregarding personal danger , he embarked on a " self-imposed mission with outstanding success " . He enabled the escape of at least 112 Allied fliers
Medal of Freedom
Medal of Freedom (1945)
Herman Laatsman