Hauenstein Center benefactor awarded French Legion of Honor medal

Ralph W. Hauenstein, benefactor of Grand Valley’s Hauenstein Center for Presidential Studies, has been awarded the French Legion of Honor medal for his service to the French people during World War II.

“It is a great honor and privilege to present you with the Knight of the Legion of Honor medal,” reads part of a letter to Hauenstein from Graham Paul, of the French consulate in Chicago. “Through this award, the French government pays tribute to the soldiers who did so much for France and Western Europe. More than 65 years ago, you gave your youth to France and the French people. Many of your fellow soldiers did not return, but they remain in our hearts.”

Hauenstein, who recently celebrated his 100th birthday, was a pivotal figure in World War II for the Allies. In December 1940, Hauenstein joined the military for the second time in his life, was promoted to Colonel, and served as the chief of the intelligence branch, U.S. Army, under then-General Dwight D. Eisenhower.

Hauenstein helped lead intelligence operations for the U.S. Army’s European Theater from December 1941 until September 1946. His work helped in the preparation of both Operation Overlord, which was the code name for the Battle of Normandy, launched on D-Day,  and Operation Dragoon, which was an Allied operation to invade the south of France.

When the Allies pushed the Axis powers back, Hauenstein was the first American officer to enter Paris. He also served as a liaison between French and American military intelligence services.

“Thanks to the courage of these soldiers, to our American friends and allies, France has been living in peace for the past six decades,” said the notification letter to Hauenstein. “They saved us and we will never forget. I want you to know that for us, the French People, they are heroes. Gratitude and remembrance are forever in our souls.”

Hauenstein has also earned several awards from the United States military for his service. He holds the Legion of Merit, the Bronze Star, and the European, African, and Middle Eastern Service medals. He also holds the Order of the British Empire from the United Kingdom.

The French Legion of Honor, created in 1802 by Napoleon, is the highest decoration in France. Roughly 10,000 Americans have been recognized with Legion of Honor medals, including former President Dwight Eisenhower, U.S. Army General David Petraeus, and Admiral Mike Mullen, of the United States Navy and the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

Below is the full text of the official letter from the French Ambassador to the United States to Hauenstein:

“Dear Mr. Hauenstein:

I am pleased to inform you that by decree of President Sarkozy on February 14, 2012, you have been appointed a “Chevalier” of the Legion of Honor.

This award testifies to President Sarkozy’s high esteem for your merits and accomplishments. In particular, it is a sign of France’s infinite gratitude and appreciation for your personal and precious contribution to the United States’ decisive role in the liberation of our country during World War II.

The Legion of Honor was created by Napoleon in 1802 to acknowledge services rendered to France by persons of exceptional merit. The French people will never forget your courage and your devotion to the great cause of freedom. 

It is a true pleasure for me to convey to you our sincere and warm congratulations. 

In order to determine the means of bestowing the insignia upon you, please contact our General Consulate in Chicago. Naturally, I remain at your disposal in this regard.

Once again, my heartfelt congratulations.

Sincerely,

Francois Delattre”