24. An Inspiration to All Women With Guns
Simone Segouin learned how to operate a submachine gun, which became her signature weapon. She was also gradually brought up to speed on the activities of the Francs-Tireurs et Partisans, a combat alliance of militant communists and French nationalists. As a courier, Simone needed a bicycle to get about. However, she did not have a bicycle. So her first mission was to steal one from the Germans.
She did, and the liberated bicycle was repainted and became her personal reconnaissance vehicle. The improved mobility allowed her to more easily deliver messages and stake out targets. After demonstrating that she could take care of herself and not jeopardize others in dangerous situations, Simone was allowed to take part in hazardous combat missions. They included blowing up bridges, derailing trains, and killing or capturing Germans.