Agents for Escape: Inside the French Resistance, 1939-1945

by Andre Rougeyron, Marie-Antoinette McConnell (Translator)

"The only merit of this book - and I insist on it - is that it is true, true from beginning to end. And this, you see, is definitely something!" So writes Andre Rougeyron in the Preface of his memoir, displaying a hint of the passion that undoubtedly accounted for his heroism in France and Germany during World War II - and displaying too his own modest self-regard. His chronicle of the years spent rescuing downed Allied airmen in France and consequently enduring German labor camps remains focused throughout on others. A myriad of individuals - both named and unnamed - and their sufferings and triumphs small and large suffuse his story.
His portrait of Normandy under occupation and his descriptions of life and death in the labor camps add important new information to current understanding of how French resisters and the camps operated. Equally significant and also fascinating is his evocation of people from diverse backgrounds brought together under unbearably trying circumstances.

248 pages, Hardcover

First published November 27, 1995

Reviews

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

Stories of individuals who risked everything in the face of the horrors of Hitler continue to be an inspiration for all men and women in the ongoing battle against oppression wherever it is found. Andre Rougeyron and his fellow French resistance members are to be held in the highest esteem for the countless lives they saved.

[Jill · Rating 4 out of 5]

A first-hand account of a French Resistance member who helps Allied airmen escape. Interesting and well-written. Surprisingly my favorite part was the addendum with the account of another Resistance member, a woman, who also shielded Allied airmen. Her account had more everyday details and her feelings. Monsieur Rougeyron, the main account, was more straight-forward and matter-of-fact. Both were really wonderful for getting a sense of what that harrowing time was like.