The life of Nancy Wake: the stuff of legend
8th August, 2011
ACTING Opposition leader Warren Truss has today paid tribute to Nancy Wake, describing her as a true Australian and international legend.“It is with great sadness that we learn the news this morning of the passing of Nancy Wake and today we reflect on the life of a truly remarkable person,” he said.
“Nancy served the Allied effort in World War II with great distinction, characteristic grit and tenacity, and rare bravery.
“Nancy was the Allies’ most decorated WWII servicewoman, recognised for her service in the Special Operations Executive, during which she set up escape routes for thousands of Allied soldiers and airmen and led a band of the Resistance.
“Dubbed ‘the White Mouse’ by the Gestapo, Nancy was the Nazi’s most wanted person in 1943, earning a 5 million franc price on her head.
“In 2004 Nancy was awarded Australia’s highest civilian honour, the Companion of the Order of Australia. But she was also honoured in receiving France’s highest honour, the Legion d’Honneur, as well as three Croix de Guerre, a French Resistance Medal, Britain’s George Medal and the US Medal of Freedom.
“Her exploits and achievements have been the subject of books and movies.
“Understandably she is also revered in France as a national heroine for her Resistance efforts.
“It is remarkable that after all of the extraordinary danger Nancy endured during the war that she died peacefully in London at the grand old age of 98.
“Her story is the stuff of legend. All Australians will mourn her passing.”
[ENDS]
