INFORMATION IN THIS ARTICLE PROVIDED BY CONSUL GENERAL OF FRANCE IN ATLANTA

CENTRAL, SC- A local Word War II Veteran, Cpl. Ralph Conte, will be honored with France's highest merit during a ceremony on Wednesday, September 4, 2024 at Semper Fi Barn. The Consul General of France in Atlanta will decorate Conte with the Legion of Honor.

The Legion of Honor is bestowed upon French citizens as well as foreign nationals who have served France or the ideals it upholds, including individuals who have contributed to the country professionally, as well as Veterans such as the Americans who risked their lives during World War II fighting on French soil.

President of the French Republic Emmanuel Macron designates the recipients of the Legion of Honor. Conte will be decorated by the Consul General of France in Atlanta Anne-Laure Desjonqueres. Below is a brief summary of Conte's involvement in World War II.

Ralph Conte, born in North Bergen, NJ, served in the United States Army from December 1942 through 1945, as part of the 94th Infantry Division, 301st Infantry, Company F. His service in Europe began in Normandy at Utah Beach when he landed with his unit, ninety-five days after D-Day. After fourteen days of being on the front lines, Conte was hit by shrapnel. In 1945, while serving as a rifleman of the HQ platoon, the then PFC Conte deployed heroic efforts. Having encountered an enemy strong point commanding a road near Freudenburg in Germany, Conte and a fellow private engaged with the enemy. They bravely confronted the enemy strong point, and this heroic action resulted in the surrender of eighteen German troops and the securing of a vital supply route.

Following his dedicated service, Ralph Conte received an honorable discharge on December 20, 1945, marking the conclusion of his valiant contribution to the war effort. Conte honorably served in nine countries and fought in four campaigns. In recognition of his service, Conte was awarded many medals, including the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star, the Victory Medal and the Good Conduct Medal. He was also awarded the American Theater Ribbon and the European-African-Middle Eastern Ribbon.

Some of the best-known American recipients of the Legion of Honor include Generals Dwight D. Eisenhower and Josephine Baker.

Conte and the Consul General will be available after the ceremony for comment.

The public is invited to witness this historic medal ceremony on Wednesday, September 4 at 12:00 pm at 314 Smith Memorial Drive, Central, SC. Hosted by the Semper Fi Barn, attendance is free of charge. For more information, please call 864-643-9197.