The Forgotten War Heroine - Milunka Savic I WHO DID WHAT IN WW1?

TL;DR

Milunka Savic was a decorated female soldier in WW1, forgotten until recently.

Transcript

Milunka Savić was one of the very few women who actively fought in WW1. She fought for the entire war becoming one of the most decorated, and badass, women in military history. I’m Indy Neidell; welcome to another special bio episode of who did what in WW1, today featuring Milunka Savić. From what we can figure out, she was born possibly June 28, 1... Read More

Key Insights

• Milunka Savic was one of the few women who actively fought in World War I, disguising herself as a man to serve in the Serbian military.
• She joined the military under her brother's name and fought in the Balkan Wars before her identity was discovered after an injury.
• Despite initial reluctance, military officials allowed her to continue fighting, recognizing her desire and capability to serve her country.
• Savic became a national hero after her valor at the battle of Kolubara, receiving Serbia's highest military honor.
• She was repeatedly decorated for her bravery, earning honors from France, Russia, and Britain, including the French Legion of Honor and the Croix de Guerre.
• After the war, she declined offers to move to France, choosing instead to live in Belgrade where she worked modest jobs.
• During World War II, she was imprisoned in a concentration camp and later lived in poverty until her story was rediscovered during WW1 remembrances.
• Milunka Savic's legacy has been revived in recent years through films and plays, celebrating her as a Serbian war heroine.

Questions & Answers

Q: How did Milunka Savic manage to serve in the Serbian military during WW1?

Milunka Savic managed to serve in the Serbian military by disguising herself as a man, using her brother's name to enlist. At the time, women were only permitted to work as medical staff, but her determination to fight led her to join the infantry. Her true identity was only discovered after she was injured in battle.

Q: What recognition did Milunka Savic receive for her service in WW1?

Milunka Savic received numerous accolades for her bravery and service during WW1. She was awarded Serbia's highest military honor, the Order of the Star of Karadjordje with Swords, and received the French Legion of Honor twice, the Russian Order of the Holy George, and the British Medal of the Order of St. Michael, among others.

Q: What challenges did Milunka Savic face after WW1?

After WW1, Milunka Savic faced several challenges, including living in poverty and obscurity. Despite her decorated military career, she worked in modest jobs such as a post office worker and a bank janitor. During WWII, she was imprisoned in a concentration camp for ten months, further adding to her struggles.

Q: How was Milunka Savic's story rediscovered in later years?

Milunka Savic's story was rediscovered during the half-century remembrances of WW1 when she appeared wearing her medals, sparking interest in her exploits. Older soldiers shared stories of her bravery, leading to renewed recognition of her contributions. Her story has since been celebrated through films and theatrical plays.

Q: What impact did Milunka Savic have on the role of women in military history?

Milunka Savic's impact on military history is significant as she challenged gender norms by actively participating in combat during a time when women were restricted to non-combat roles. Her courage and achievements paved the way for future generations of women in the military, highlighting the potential for women to serve alongside men.

Q: How did Milunka Savic's actions during the battle of Kolubara contribute to her becoming a national hero?

During the battle of Kolubara, Milunka Savic demonstrated exceptional bravery by reportedly crossing no-man's land alone, throwing grenades, and taking 20 Austrian soldiers prisoner. Her actions played a crucial role in Serbia's victory against Austro-Hungarian forces, earning her national hero status and the highest military honors.

Q: Why did Milunka Savic decline the offer to move to France after WW1?

Milunka Savic declined the offer to move to France and receive a pension because she chose to return to her homeland, Serbia. Despite the hardships she faced, including living in poverty, her decision reflects her deep connection to her country and her desire to live among her people in Belgrade.

Q: What legacy does Milunka Savic leave behind for future generations?

Milunka Savic leaves a legacy of courage, resilience, and breaking barriers for women in military history. Her story inspires future generations to challenge societal norms and pursue their passions regardless of gender. Her revival in popular culture ensures that her contributions to WW1 and her role as a pioneering female soldier are remembered and celebrated.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Milunka Savic was a pioneering female soldier in WW1, disguising herself as a man to fight for Serbia. Her bravery and skill earned her numerous military honors, making her one of the most decorated women in military history.

• Despite her significant contributions, Savic lived in obscurity post-war until her story resurfaced during WW1 commemorations. Her legacy is now celebrated through various media, highlighting her as a forgotten war heroine.

• Savic's determination to fight for her country, even when her identity was discovered, showcases her extraordinary courage and commitment, making her a symbol of female empowerment in military history.