André Gosse (1909-1999) - le Léopard

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André Gosse was born on April 19, 1909 in Rocquemont, Seine-Maritime, in a family of eight children. He grew up in a rural environment and developed a deep attachment to his land and traditions.

In 1933, he married France Lenormand, a native of Esteville. The couple settled at the Petite Vallée farm in Saint-Victor-l'Abbaye. They had eleven children together.

Commitment to the Resistance

In 1940, France was occupied by Nazi Germany. Deeply marked by the defeat and injustices of the occupation, he decided to join the resistance.

Creation of the Leopard network

After the Allied landings in Dieppe in August 1942, André Gosse and his wife France created their own resistance network, called "Leopard". This network brought together men and women of all ages and professions, united by the desire to fight against the occupier.

Actions of the Leopard network

The Leopard network carried out various actions to weaken the Germans and support the French population. These actions include:

Intelligence

• • Topographical surveys for the identification of V1 launch bases and anti-aircraft batteries (Flak).

  • Monitoring the nature of railway convoys on the Rouen-Dieppe and Motteville-Buchy lines thanks to the railway workers who were members of the network.

  • The transmission of information to the English using carrier pigeons sent to France by parachute.

Aid to Allied Airmen

• Thanks to the actions, among others, of Abbés Petit, parish priest of Saint-Victor-L'abbaye, Gricourt, parish priest of La Crique and Pasquier, parish priest of Beaunay and the gendarmes of the brigades of Bacqueville en caux, Bellencombre, Tôtes and local sympathizers.

Monitoring of collaborators with the Germans

Support for other networks

• Lieutenant Aubert of the Rouen fire brigade (survey of bases)

Harassment of German troops

• Dieppe Station (14 locomotives destroyed)

• Destruction of locks in the Somme

• Fighting at Biville-la-Baignarde on 30 August 1944, several killed including Henri Mallet, group leader.

Members of the Leopard network operated underground and faced a constant risk of arrest by the Gestapo or the Militia. Interrogations, torture and executions were frequent. Despite the dangers, the members of the Leopard Network showed courage and determination.

Tribute and recognition

After the liberation, André Gosse did not accept any decorations, except for the Croix de Guerre pinned down by General Leclerc de Hauteclocque and the American Freedom. His commitment to the resistance saved many lives and hastened the liberation of France.

Until the end of his life, he never ceased to honour the memory of his companions.