In brief
Valérie André was a combat helicopter pilot and France's first female army general who made history with her courage and skills.
Valérie André, a remarkable French Army helicopter pilot and brain surgeon, passed away on January 21 at the age of 102. From the age of 10, she was inspired to fly after meeting aviator Maryse Hilsz. André went on to break significant barriers as the first woman to conduct rescue missions in combat zones during the Indochina and Algeria wars. She completed an impressive 120 missions, rescuing both French and enemy soldiers.Her courage earned her the prestigious Croix de Guerre five times, and in 1976, she made history by becoming the first woman in France to be promoted to general. "She dreamed of soaring like a star," said a spokesperson from the French Ministry of Defense, highlighting her lifelong dedication to women in the military. André’s legacy continues to inspire future generations of women in aviation and the armed forces.
