Nicolas Bodington – SOE’s Baker Street Enigma

This article investigates the controversial career of Nicolas Bodington, Deputy Director of SOE’s F Section, focusing on the contradictions between his leadership in crucial French missions and his post-war reputation as a possible traitor. Since Bodington never published his memories, this study synthesizes evidence from British archival records, SOE associates’ memories and scholarly histories of the Second World War, SOE and the secret services. The analysis reveals that Bodington was an enigmatic figure who led a mysterious life. His unconventional relationship with French pilot Henri Déricourt and his defense of Déricourt at his treason trial in 1948 has contributed to the persistent conspiracies and allegations that Bodington was a traitor.