LES ROCHAMBELLES - AMBULANCE DRIVERS OF THE LECLERC DIVISION

New paperback edition

L'Unité Rochambeau, sometimes called Groupe Rochambeau, set itself apart from other women's units through an extraordinary journey, in which women — whether from the upper bourgeoisie or more working-class backgrounds — were throughout their service driven by an ardent desire to save their country, France.

But this fervour was also amplified by the presence of inspiring leaders with strong personalities. First and foremost, the emblematic figure of General Leclerc, commanding the 2nd Armoured Division, whose respect and devotion from all the soldiers of his division and the Rochambelles was — and remains — unwavering. But also within the unit itself: Florence Conrad, a true icon, as well as Suzanne Torrès, who would take the reins of the group all the way to Indochina.

The story of this small unit, on the scale of the French Army, made up of a group of women thrust into a male-dominated environment, marks the beginning of the feminisation of the French Army as we know it today. That is why it was important to pay tribute to these women and to their personal, individual stories that form part of History.

"I was part of the Groupe Rochambeau, a Rochambelle I was, a Rochambelle I have remained" - Rosette Peschaud