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Borrel, Andrée Raymonde "Monique"

Date of birth:
November 18th, 1919 (Bécon-les-Bruyères, France)
Date of death:
July 6th, 1944 (KZ Natzweiler-Struthof, France)
Mentioned on:
Brookwood 1939-1945 Memorial (Memorial to the Missing)
Nationality:
French (1870-present, Republic)

Biography

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Period:
Second World War (1939-1945)
Rank:
Lieutenant
Unit:
F Section, Special Operations Executive (SOE), British Government
"This officer was parachuted into France in November 1942 as an assistant to an organiser in the Paris area. She proved herself an able and devoted lieutenant, and was appointed second in command of the organisation. Owing to her cool judgment she was always chosen for the most delicate and dangerous work such as recruiting and arranging rendezvous, and she acted as "cut-out" for her commanding officer.

Lt. Borrel was also given the task of organising parachute dropping operations, and took part in several coups de mains, notably an operation against the Chevilly power station in March 1943. She distinguished herself by her coolness and efficiency and always volunteered for the most dangerous tasks. Her commanding officer paid tribute to her great qualities, describing her as "a perfect lieutenant, an excellent organiser who shares all the dangers".

Lt Borrel was arrested by the Gestapo in July 1943. For her great bravery and devotion to duty during nine months of active underground work in France, it is recommended that she be appointed a Member of the Order of the British Empire (civil division)."

Posthumoulsy downgraded to the KCBC
King's/Queen's Commendation for brave conduct

Sources