MAX

Abstract

Franz Mayr (see Figure 8.1) was born on 15 November 1914 in the rural hamlet of Grossinzemoos, Bavaria, a few kilometres north of the town of Dachau, not far from Munich, into a large Roman Catholic family: Mayr had three brothers and three sisters. Many physical descriptions of Franz Mayr and several photographs are to be found in the records. Clearly, unlike his close associate Roman Gamotha, who was renowned for his stellar good looks, Mayr was of unprepossessing appearance: average height (182 cm) with ‘slight build … very thin lips, prominent nose, large ears.’ However, absent from the descriptions but striking in the photographs is the engaging, intelligent gaze. Mayr seems to have been further distinguished by his peculiar ‘loose walk,’ his tendency to whistle, his ready sense of humour and wit, and his nervous habit of continuously tapping his cigarette on the table top. Unlike Gamotha and most of the parachutists sent to Persia by Berlin, with their pale complexions and regular, unmistakenly European features, Mayr could effortlessly disguise himself as a Persian or an Arab. Describing Mayr’s brilliant disguise, Berthold Schulze-Holthus wrote: ‘While my own costume seemed somewhat theatrical, … anyone would have taken him for a Persian artisan.’²

Slowly but surely, I begin to know how to treat Persians. I know their tricks, their intrigues, in which they are richer than any other people. Rightly treated, these people are prepared for any risks, trouble, or even sacrifices. … The Persian frame of mind is based on an imaginary belief in Germany, in the Führer, in German strength. A belief against which all enemy propaganda has failed. All influence, even enormous sums of money, are helpless against this true oriental, fanatical belief. Only we can shatter this belief. (Franz Mayr)¹