Order of Saint Maurice

Order of Saint Maurice. It is a prestigious military honor established by the National Infantry Association to recognize individuals who have made significant and lasting contributions to the United States Army Infantry. Named for Saint Maurice, the patron saint of infantrymen, the order celebrates distinguished service and support to the infantry community. The award is presented in several grades, with the primary level being that of "Holder" for military personnel and "Legionnaire" for civilians.

History

The order was formally established in 1995 under the auspices of the National Infantry Association, an organization dedicated to supporting the United States Army Infantry. Its creation was inspired by the long-standing tradition of Saint Maurice as the patron saint of infantry soldiers, a tradition dating back to the Holy Roman Empire and the Theban Legion. The award was conceived to provide a modern, tangible recognition parallel to historic European chivalric orders, specifically honoring the unique ethos and sacrifices of the American infantryman. Since its inception, the award has been closely associated with the United States Army Infantry School at Fort Benning, a key center for infantry training and doctrine development.

Insignia and grades

The insignia features a red enameled cross pattée, evoking the imagery of the Iron Cross and other military decorations, centered with a medallion bearing the likeness of Saint Maurice. The primary grade for military recipients is the Holder of the Order of Saint Maurice, while the civilian counterpart is the Legionnaire of the Order of Saint Maurice. Higher levels of recognition include the Medallion and the Patron Saint Medallion, awarded for exceptionally meritorious service. The insignia is typically worn on the uniform's service coat or as a miniature on mess dress, similar in tradition to other distinguished awards like the Order of Saint George for armor personnel.

Recipients and notable members

Recipients include some of the most distinguished figures in modern American military history. Notable military holders include General Barry McCaffrey, General David Petraeus, and Command Sergeant Major Gary L. Littrell, a Medal of Honor recipient. Prominent civilian Legionnaires have included senators like John McCain and entertainer and veteran supporter Gary Sinise. The order has also been bestowed posthumously, honoring heroes such as Sergeant First Class Randall Shughart, who was killed during the Battle of Mogadishu. These individuals are recognized alongside thousands of other infantrymen and supporters whose careers exemplify the core values of the United States Army.

Criteria and appointment process

Nomination for the order is a rigorous process, requiring documented evidence of sustained and impactful service to the infantry community over many years. For soldiers, this typically involves significant leadership roles within infantry units, contributions to combat effectiveness, or development of infantry tactics and training at institutions like the United States Army Infantry School. Civarians are evaluated on their advocacy, philanthropy, or other support that tangibly benefits infantry soldiers and their families. Final selections are made by a board of senior members of the order, overseen by the National Infantry Association, ensuring the award maintains its high prestige and alignment with the legacy of Saint Maurice.

Activities and charitable work

Beyond being an award, the order fosters a continuing community dedicated to the welfare of infantrymen. Members often participate in and sponsor events at Fort Benning, including ceremonies, professional development forums, and the annual Infantry Ball. The associated National Infantry Association and Infantry Foundation engage in significant charitable work, providing scholarships to soldiers' children, supporting wounded warrior programs like those at the Walter Reed National Military Medical Center, and funding memorials such as the National Infantry Museum. These activities reinforce the order's living mission to honor the past, support the present, and inspire the future of the United States Army Infantry.

Category:Military awards and decorations of the United States Category:United States Army awards Category:Infantry