In brief
Valérie André, who took her last flight on January 21, 2025, was not only the first woman to conduct rescue operations in combat zones but also the first female general in the French Army.
Dr. Valérie André, known for her groundbreaking achievements as a helicopter pilot and brain surgeon, passed away at the age of 102 on January 21 in Issy-les-Moulineaux, near Paris. Her remarkable journey began at the age of ten when she met aviator Maryse Hilsz, igniting her dual ambitions of medicine and aviation. André excelled in both fields and made history as the first woman to fly rescue missions in a combat zone, specifically during the Indochina War and the Algerian War. Over her distinguished career, she completed 120 combat missions and dramatically contributed to the rescue of 168 wounded soldiers, showcasing her bravery repeatedly. Her significant achievements were recognized through multiple awards, including the Croix de Guerre, which she received five times. A testament to her pioneering spirit, André became the first Frenchwoman to attain the rank of army general, championing women's inclusion in military roles traditionally reserved for men."The dream of a 10-year-old girl inspired her life’s journey," remarked Olivia Penichou, a representative of the French Ministry of Defense, emphasizing André's commitment to breaking gender barriers in military aviation. Though the announcement of her death did not mention surviving family members, her legacy will undoubtedly inspire generations to come. Valérie André's contributions to both medicine and military service marked her as a true trailblazer in history.
