The Forgotten Australian Hero Who Saved Thousands from the Nazis’ Crimes

THE OBSERVER: Bruce Dowding’s war exploits were never recognised. Now in a new book his nephew says it’s time to give him the honour he deserves

Bruce Dowding volunteered as an interpreter for the British army after war broke out while he was studying in France. Photograph: Pen & Sword
Ayoung Australian who joined the French Resistance, worked undercover for British intelligence, and helped to save thousands of lives in war-torn France was guillotined by the Gestapo in 1943 after he was betrayed by a British double agent.

Yet Corporal Bruce Dowding’s bravery and ultimate sacrifice have been largely forgotten because France’s attempt to award him its highest national honours – the Croix de Guerre and Légion d’honneur – came up against his own country’s bureaucracy.

Now Dowding’s family are calling for him to receive the honours that he deserves and for Australia to recognise him as one of its heroes, after he aided the escape from France of allied servicemen and Jews fleeing the persecution of the Third Reich. » | Dalya Alberge | Sunday, September 17, 2023