In brief
Odile de Vasselot, a French Resistance hero during WWII, known for her daring missions against the Nazis, passed away at age 103. She inspired many and founded a school in Ivory Coast post-war.
Odile de Vasselot, who boldly answered the call of duty during World War II, passed away on April 21 at the age of 103. Known for her bravery as a member of the French Resistance, Odile took action after hearing Charles de Gaulle's speech urging resistance against German occupiers. While her mother remained unaware, she carried out crucial missions, including delivering messages and escorting Allied airmen through enemy lines.Recognized for her contributions, she received a medal from the Order of the Liberation, an honor established by General de Gaulle. Odile began her fight against the Nazis by symbolically chalking the Lorraine Cross on walls and tearing down propaganda posters. As she recalled, she was driven by a sense of duty and could not stand idly by while her country was occupied.President Emmanuel Macron expressed his admiration, calling her a “great lady” whose courage remains an inspiration for all. After the war, de Vasselot dedicated part of her life to education by founding a girls' school in Ivory Coast, continuing her legacy of empowerment and change.
