Jacques Andre
France- Jacques André: A French Hero in the Soviet Sky
- Joining the "Normandie" Squadron
- Heroism and Honors
- Post-War Career
Jacques André: A French Hero in the Soviet Sky
Jacques André was a French pilot and a Hero of the Soviet Union. Born in Paris to the famous French WWI ace, André received his flight training in Bourges. He joined the French Armed Forces in 1939 and evacuated to North Africa after the Italian invasion of southern France in 1940.
Joining the "Normandie" Squadron
In late 1943, André arrived in the USSR to replenish the ranks of the depleted "Normandie" French fighter regiment based in Tula. During his time on the Soviet-German front, he flew 113 combat missions and shot down 15 Nazi aircraft. André became the leading ace of the "Normandie-Niemen" regiment.
Heroism and Honors
On June 4, 1945, the Presidium of the Supreme Soviet of the USSR awarded André the title of Hero of the Soviet Union for his courage, heroism, and military prowess in the battles against the Nazi invaders. He received the Order of Lenin and the Gold Star Medal.
Post-War Career
After the war, André continued his service in the French Air Force, retiring with the rank of Colonel. He then pursued a career in horticulture. Jacques André passed away at the age of 69.
