Eliane Plewman

Eliane Plewman, born Eliane Browne-Bartroli (1917 – 1944), was a British Special Operations Executive (SOE) agent during World War II. She served in occupied France under the codename "Gaby" and later "Dean".

Plewman was recruited by the SOE in 1942 and underwent rigorous training in sabotage, wireless communication, and unarmed combat. She was eventually selected to join the French Section (F Section) of the SOE, which was responsible for supporting the French Resistance.

In August 1943, Plewman was parachuted into France near Marseille. Her mission was to act as a wireless operator for the "Monk" circuit, led by Maurice Pertschuk. She was responsible for transmitting vital information back to London, including details of German troop movements and industrial targets for Allied bombing raids.

Despite the dangers of operating in occupied territory, Plewman proved to be a highly effective and resourceful agent. She moved frequently to avoid detection, often disguising herself and relying on the help of local French civilians.

In March 1944, Plewman was arrested by the Gestapo while transmitting messages. She was interrogated and tortured, but she refused to betray her colleagues or reveal any sensitive information. She was eventually deported to the Dachau concentration camp.

Eliane Plewman was executed at Dachau on September 13, 1944. She was posthumously awarded the King's Commendation for Brave Conduct and the Croix de Guerre. Her bravery and sacrifice are remembered as a testament to the courage of the SOE agents who risked their lives to help liberate Europe from Nazi occupation.