This image from our collections (HCA/D1249/4/4/2) is an extract from a 14 page letter detailing one woman’s struggle in the French Resistance during World War Two – facing bombs, spies and raids on the house where she hid British airmen. The letter, dated 1 May 1945, provides a personal insight into events of the time and is a testimony to the bravery that can exist in such extreme circumstances. As a result of this letter’s existence a wreath has recently been laid at the town in France where the events took place to commemorate the lives of those involved.
“Then, when we had lunch, we saw one S.S. opening the gate and rushing directly to the hen-shed…under the loft, breaking the doors, with his pistol in his hand! “This time”, said Rene “I think we are finished” – God made him come out without seeing the airmen, who were kneeling and praying. It is the only time I really wanted to kiss a Jerry. We had deserved so many times to be shot that we are still surprised to be alive.”
