This event was the occasion of the unveiling of the SECRET WW2 plaque commemorating the HQ premises of F Section, SOE pending installation on 83 Baker Street at a future date (since achieved). Largely aimed at Friends, Volunteers and F Section families, the indoor ceremony and reception took place at The Marketing Suite, 56 Baker Street, London W1, courtesy of the developers, Derwent London. The venue’s maximum capacity was reached and the 40+ attendees saw the unveiling of the plaque, below both French and Union flags, performed by noted F Section historian David Harrison (pictured below, being introduced by Louisa Russell, Chair of SECRET WW2) and the relatively new Defence Attaché from the French Embassy in London, Admiral Luc Raynal – shown below with his Army Attaché, Colonel Henri Leinekugel Le Cocq. Chair Louisa Russell led on thanks and acknowledgements and it was heartening to see many family members there – some for the very first time. This was the first of three occasions in the September-November period that brought together descendants of agents. Once again, we were supported at the ceremony by representatives of the WAAF/WRAF Association, the FANY (PRVC) – both pictured below – and the Royal Air Force Association.

Our thanks were repeated to the funders: Bill Beauclerk and Libre Résistance; Guy Audibert  and AMAC (UK) [the Association Mutilés et Anciens Combattants]; Simon Bailey (son), Yvette Pitt (daughter) and Julie Clamp (granddaughter) of F Section agents who survived; Cécile Coolen – Paris-based historian and film producer; Ian Titman, Carol Browne and Paul McCue of  SECRET WW2.

Gratitude was expressed to Tom Shillinglaw, representing Melvyn Hale of Lazari – the property owners of both 83 Baker Street (F Section HQ), 56 Baker Street (the ceremony venue) and 64 Baker Street, SOE’s main HQ. A very special “Mention in Despatches” was given to Henry Robinson who has been so positive in including a permanent SOE exhibition in the future development of the area by Derwent London.