Female Spy Honored in London

In a poignant tribute to wartime heroism, Krystyna Skarbek, a pioneering female spy, is being honored with a photograph at the National Portrait Gallery in London as part of a new exhibition dedicated to female spies. Biographer Clare Mulley recounts Skarbek's remarkable journey, highlighting her unique contributions as the first woman to serve as a special agent for Britain during World War II, predating the establishment of the Special Operations Executive (SOE). Skarbek, who later adopted the name Christine Granville, undertook perilous missions in the Alps, where she sought to undermine the loyalty of Polish troops conscripted by the Germans. Armed only with a loudhailer, she navigated treacherous terrain, demonstrating extraordinary courage and resourcefulness. Her efforts were recognized by military officials, who noted the significant impact of her work on the Allied cause. After surviving the war, Skarbek was awarded several honors, including the George Medal and OBE, as well as the French Croix-de-Guerre. The photograph displayed at the gallery, donated by the family of fellow agent Bill Stanley Moss, is part of a collection showcasing the contributions of women in the SOE, alongside images of other notable agents like Sonia Butt and Elaine Madden, who also played crucial roles in the resistance. This exhibition not only celebrates Skarbek's legacy but also sheds light on the vital roles women played in espionage during a tumultuous period in history.