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World War II Honoree

Civilian on the Home Front

Clare Elizebeth Smith Friedman

Hometown

Huntington, Indiana

Honored By

Pearl Thomas

Branch Seal
Activity During WWII

Cryptanalyst who helped decipher codes used by enemies of the U.S in both World Wars. She broke coded messages sent on Germany's Enigma machines. Her discoveries allowed the western allies to thwart the Argentinian and German plans. Her code breaking prowess proved crucial in solving the 'Doll Woman Case' in 1944. The incident involved a dealer of antique dolls in New York City who was convicted of spying for the Japanese government. Because of the secrecy of her work, she was forbidden to mention it in public.