Little Rock, Arkansas – A special ceremony will take place at the Arkansas State Capitol next week to honor one of the state’s most decorated military heroes and public servants.
On Tuesday, July 7, at 10:00 a.m. CT, Arkansas Rep. French Hill will host the unveiling of a bust recognizing former Arkansas Lieutenant Governor and World War II hero Maurice “Footsie” Britt. The event will be held in the second-floor Rotunda of the Arkansas State Capitol in Little Rock.
The ceremony will celebrate Britt’s extraordinary military service and his later contributions to the State of Arkansas through public office.
Ceremony recognizes decorated war hero and longtime public servant
Maurice “Footsie” Britt, a native of Carlisle, Arkansas, earned a place in American military history during World War II. While serving with the 3rd Infantry Division in campaigns across North Africa, Sicily, and Italy, he became the first American soldier during the war to receive every one of the U.S. Army’s highest decorations for valor in a single conflict.
His military honors included the Medal of Honor, the Distinguished Service Cross, the Silver Star, the Bronze Star, and four Purple Hearts, recognizing repeated acts of bravery in combat.
Following his military service, Britt continued serving the public by becoming Arkansas’ lieutenant governor. He served two terms alongside Governor Winthrop Rockefeller.
The unveiling ceremony is expected to bring together military leaders, elected officials, educators, family members, and members of the public.
Among those scheduled to attend are Rep. French Hill, Arkansas State Representative Joey Carr, Deputy Secretary Dr. Paul Lawrence of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, University of Arkansas Chancellor Dr. Charles Robinson, members of the Britt family, representatives of the U.S. Air Force, the Arkansas National Guard, and the 106th Army Band.
The ceremony will also recognize sculptor Kevin Kresse, who created the bust. Kresse is also known for creating the statue of Arkansas native Johnny Cash that is displayed in the U.S. Capitol.
The event will begin at 10:00 a.m. Tuesday at the Arkansas State Capitol Rotunda, located at 500 Woodlane Street in Little Rock, where attendees will gather to celebrate Britt’s lasting legacy of courage, military service, and dedication to Arkansas.
