Colonel Pierre (Peter) Julien Ortiz OBE (July 5, 1913-May 16, 1988) born in New York City, was one of the most decorated Marine officers of World War II. He served in both Africa and Europe throughout the war, as a member of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS).
Although born in the U.S., he was educated at the University of Grenoble in France and began his military service in 1932 at the age of 19 with the French Foreign Legion. He was wounded...
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Colonel Pierre (Peter) Julien Ortiz OBE (July 5, 1913-May 16, 1988) born in New York City, was one of the most decorated Marine officers of World War II. He served in both Africa and Europe throughout the war, as a member of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS).
Although born in the U.S., he was educated at the University of Grenoble in France and began his military service in 1932 at the age of 19 with the French Foreign Legion. He was wounded in action and imprisoned by the Germans in 1940. After his escape, he made his way to the U.S. and joined the Marines. As a result of his training and experience, he was awarded a commission, and a special duty assignment as an assistant naval attaché in Tangier, Morocco. Once again, Ortiz was wounded while performing combat intelligence work in preparation for Allied landings in North Africa. Ortiz enlisted in the Corps after recuperating from his wounds and, upon graduation from Parris Island, was commissioned in 1942. Ortiz spoke several...
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