Peter Ortiz’s military journey is one of extraordinary valor and resilience, stretching from the deserts of North Africa to the resistance movements in occupied France. Enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1942, Ortiz already had a wealth of combat experience under his belt, having served in the French Foreign Legion and survived 15 months as a prisoner of war. By the end of World War II, he had become the most decorated member of the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) and one of the most decorated Marines of the conflict.
From New York to the French Foreign Legion
Born in New York City on July 5, 1913, Peter Ortiz was raised in a privileged environment, being the son of a French-Spanish art dealer, Philippe Ortiz. His early education at the University of Grenoble, where he mastered ten languages, set the stage for his adventurous life. At 19, defying family expectations, he joined the French Foreign Legion in 1932. His exemplary service in North Africa earned him two Croix de Guerre, and by 1935, he had become the youngest sergeant in the Legion’s history.
Wounded and Captured
Re-enlisting in the Legion after Germany’s invasion of Poland in 1939, Ortiz received a battlefield commission to lieutenant in May 1940. During the Battle of France, he was captured after being wounded while destroying a German fuel depot. His fluency in multiple languages facilitated his escape from captivity after several attempts, eventually leading him back to the United States just as Pearl Harbor was attacked.
Marines and OSS Service
Ortiz’s military career took a decisive turn when he joined the Marine Corps in 1942. His unique qualifications quickly propelled him through the ranks, and he was soon involved with the OSS, organizing resistance operations in North Africa. A skirmish with a German patrol left him severely wounded, yet his bravery in forcing the enemy to retreat with grenades did not go unnoticed, ensuring his continued deployment in critical missions.
Operation Union: A Covert Mission in France
In January 1944, Ortiz parachuted into occupied France as part of Operation Union. Tasked with organizing the Maquis resistance, he demonstrated his commitment by wearing his Marine Corps uniform openly to boost morale. His daring acts, including leading raids and even facilitating the escape of downed pilots, earned him widespread respect and his first Navy Cross.
The Infamous Toast
Ortiz’s legendary status was cemented during a bold encounter with German officers in a French club. In a remarkable show of audacity, he entered the club wearing his Marine uniform, pistols ready, and demanded they toast to President Roosevelt and the Marine Corps. Whether or not he killed the officers remains debated, but the incident underscores his fearless nature.
Operation Union II and Sacrifice
Returning to France for Operation Union II, Ortiz and his men conducted numerous sabotage operations. When cornered by German forces in a village, Ortiz negotiated the surrender of his team to save civilian lives, an act that earned him a second Navy Cross and solidified his legend.
Post-War Life and Legacy
Following the war, Ortiz continued to serve in the Marine Corps Reserve while pursuing a film career in Hollywood, appearing in several films alongside John Wayne. Despite his wartime heroics, he remained humble about his acting skills. Ortiz passed away in 1988, leaving behind a legacy of bravery and dedication embodied in numerous decorations from three countries, including two Navy Crosses and five Croix de Guerre. His memory continues to be honored, notably by the village of Centron, which renamed its town center after him.
