ALBERT P. DESHAYES, awarded the DSC for extraordinary heroism in action against the enemy in Southern France. Cpl Deshayes, a member of the 517th parachute combat team. After his jump into enemy-held territory in southern France, August 15, 1944, Corporal Deshayes found himself separated from other parachutists of his unit. Through his own initiative and resourcefulness, he contacted the French underground. In the following days Corporal Deshayes led patrols of F.F.I. men which captured 29 Germans and killed many more. On one occasion he and another American set up an ambush for enemy patrol and completely wiped it out, killing 20 Germans in the one trap. Later, when the commanding officer of the German-held garrison of La Roche announced he was ready to talk terms of surrender, Corporal Deshayes was one of the three men to go to the meeting, despite the possibility of a trap. During the negotiations, which lasted approximately three hours, Corporal Deshayes stood guard outside the building opposite ten German guards. Although the building was under constant American artillery fire, Corporate Deshayes remained at his post until negotiations were complete. The surrender of the garrison resulted in the capture of 174 prisoners, 15 machine guns, two 20mm guns, and 175 rifles. Corporal Deshayes gallant fortitude throughout was in keeping with the highest traditions of the Military Service.

Mr. Deshayes joined the Legion of Valor in 1985.