SOE Women in France

[Evianers]

A while ago, I posted that I was about to give a talk on the courageous and formidable women of the SOE in wartime France. This lecture was postponed because so many members of our international club were away on holiday on 31 August, that I was asked to give the talk in February. This should now take place on 8/02.  At that time, Nancy Wake had just died [aged 98?] which several forum contributors brought to my attention.

If anyone has anything to add, or further updates which might be of interest, please feel free to post them in the next few weeks as I shall have to put together the Powerpoint presentation shortly after the New Year.

Thank you all in advance.

[Gardian]

Evianers ...................

No input to provide I'm afraid, but very interested in the subject of your lecture.

If this is an 'amateur' lecture (and please understand that I don't mean that in a derogatory way) as opposed to a professional one (as in for a fee), then if you felt able to release a copy of your text and Powerpoint presentation I'd be very keen to have them. Solely for my own interest you may be assured.

Do please pm or email as and when time allows if the former.

  

[Evianers]

Your interest is very much appreciated. We are members of a thriving international club hereabouts. As such, all members are encouraged to lecture/talk upon their interests and hobbies. The stories of the brave women of SOE have been in my thoughts since my teens

My OH, being a retired IT manager, will help put together a Powerpoint presentation on this painful but enthralling subject, but it will not be videoed for outside viewing. If you are not too far away, you could always attend on 8 February.

The intention is not only to dwell on such well-known names such as Noor Inayat Khan, Odette Churchill and Violette Szabo, but also ensure that unsung heroines who barely receive a mention are also not forgotten. Madeleine Damerment, Diana Rowden, the de Baissacs, the Nearne sisters, Cecily Lefort, as well as Denise Bloch and Muriel Byck who were perhaps doubly courageous in that they were Jewish.

Obviously Nancy Wake should also figure largely but if you have any additional comments or input, they would be very welcome.

[CeeJay]

Evianers

I wonder if you have read the book 'A Life In Secrets' by Sarah Helm. It concerns the story of Vera Atkins who co-ordinated the sending off from Britain of the women agents into France and also after the war tried to determine their fate. Nearly all of the names you mentioned are featured.

[Russethouse]

 I think I've mentioned that book here before, a really interesting read....sadly I lent it to someone !

[Evianers]

Oh yes indeed..... essential reading when one needs to know all the intricate details of the women's lives. What was amazing is Vera Atkins' background! Obviously for a very long time a closely guarded secret. Stirring stuff!