Wow, what a story!

...charming french wife...

Would asking whether this was Aouali, a most charming French lady who suddenly disappeared from the board two years ago be too inquisitive?

...a couragous American woman who took it into a Balkan combat zone

Ah, after a Canadian soldier another brave Empegger in my restless neighborhood! Pray tell more (if you are at liberty to do so)!

Cheers!