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The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting a Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster in lieu of a Second Award of the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Maurice G. Fournier (ASN: 0-376185), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Cannon Company, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in action against the enemy in North Africa, during World War II. Choosing not to expose his half-track vehicle to the deadly fire of an enemy tank, Lieutenant Fournier crawled close to the tank and disabled it with an anti-tank grenade. His courageous action removed a serious threat to his company’s position. Lieutenant Fournier’s gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.

Awards Received

  • Silver Star

    Service:

    United States Army

    Rank:

    First Lieutenant (Infantry)

    Regiment:

    18th Infantry Regiment

    Division:

    1st Infantry Division

    Action Date:

    November 8, 1942
    Headquarters, 1st Infantry Division, General Orders No. 33 (December 7, 1942)

    The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to First Lieutenant (Infantry) Maurice G. Fournier (ASN: 0-376185), United States Army, for gallantry in action while serving with Cannon Company, 18th Infantry Regiment, 1st Infantry Division, in the attack on Saint Cloud, Algeria, 8 November 1942. During the Oran offensive, Lieutenant Fournier, commanding a 105-mm. howitzer platoon, supported by direct fire the attacks of the 1st and 2d Battalions, 18th Infantry Regiment. While his platoon was in action and under continual enemy fire, Lieutenant Fournier constantly exposed himself in order to observe for enemy targets and control the fire of his own guns. His indomitable courage and resourcefulness greatly inspired the men of his command to the completion of every mission assigned them. His gallant actions and dedicated devotion to duty, without regard for his own life, were in keeping with the highest traditions of military service and reflect great credit upon himself and the United States Army.