by Calvin Ishee
Have you ever heard of the heroic efforts of an American named Virginia Hall and the massive role that she played in the Allies winning World War Two?
An extensive doubt exists because she operated totally under a veil of secrecy. When President Harry Truman wanted to publicly recognize her with a parade and formal presentation of the prestigious Distinguished Service Cross, she politely turned him down saying that she still had work to do and wanted to remain a spy.
Although her heroic and daring missions have gone virtually unnoticed and unrewarded by the American public, British author Sonia Parnell has brought her monumental accomplishments to light in her book, “A Woman of No Importance: The untold story of the American Spy Who Helped Win WWII”.
According to Parnell it took over three years and 100 hour work weeks to tell the exciting story of Virginia Hall. She spent time in London, Washington D.C. and other locations that house classified and unclassified documents about spies and discovered a gold mine of information about Virginia Hall.
Hall overcame sexism, the loss of one of her legs and countless other challenges to become the German Gestapos number one enemy. They called her the “Limping Lady” and did everything they could to capture her. Her role in starting the French Resistance is unparalleled as is her success with conducting highly effective missions against the German army.
Thanks to the Pass Christian Library as well as Pass Christian Books, a packed house was not only exposed to the truly fascinating story of Virginia Hall, but also the highly effective story telling by Sonia Parnell. She kept the enthusiastic crowd enthralled with exciting stories of intrigue and espionage. So if you want to learn more about Hall’s “James Bond” type escapades, you’ll need to buy or check out the book.
