France to decorate South Carolina WWII veteran with Legion of Honor

A South Carolina Word War II veteran, Cpl. Ralph Conte, will be honored with France's highest merit during an open ceremony Wednesday afternoon.

The Legion of Honor is bestowed upon French citizens as well as foreign nationals who have served France or the ideals it upholds. It includes individuals who have contributed to the country professionally, as well as veterans such as 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.

Ralph Conte, who resides in Greer, South Carolina, is one of around 10,000 Americans who have been honored with the medal.

Born in North Bergen, NJ, Conte 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 two weeks on the front lines, he was hit by shrapnel and later received a Purple Heart for his injury.

Later on, in 1945, while serving as a rifleman of the HQ platoon, the then PFC Conte showed heroic efforts. Having encountered an enemy strong point commanding a road near Freudenburg, Germany, Conte and a fellow private engaged with the enemy. They confronted an enemy strong point, and that action resulted in the surrender of eighteen German troops and the securing of a vital supply route.

Following his service, Ralph Conte received an honorable discharge on December 20, 1945, marking the conclusion of his valiant contribution to the war effort.

Conte served in nine countries and fought in four campaigns during his time in the military.

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.

The ceremony will take place at Semper Fi Barn, 314 Smith Memorial Drive, Central, South Carolina at 12 p.m., where the Consul General of France in Atlanta will decorate Conte with the Legion of Honor. Attendance is free to the public.