Sergeant Major Joseph R.M. Cournoyer is inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame for his valorous service to his country as a Ranger in two wars. In March 1944, SGM Cournoyer volunteered for the 2d Ranger Battalion, and was in the assault of Pointe Du-Hoc, Normandy 6 June 1944. He also served as a Ranger machinegun squad leader in the fierce fighting and capture of Brest, France. Ranger Cournoyer led more than twenty French Commandos behind enemy lines until after the Battle of the Bulge. He distinguished himself in numerous night raids and served with the 2d Ranger Battalion until the end of World War II. Ranger Cournoyer was one of the first volunteers for the Airborne Rangers and was selected to be the first sergeant of 3d Ranger Infantry Company (Abn). On 11 April 1951, in North Korea, 1SG Cournoyer distinguished himself while leading the 3d Rangers in the bayonet assault on "Bloody Nose Ridge". On 23 April 1951, while in charge of the 3d Co CP, Ranger Cournoyer received a message that the Company was cut off behind enemy lines and surrounded by thousands of enemy soldiers. Ranger Cournoyer assembled 12 walking wounded company headquarters Rangers to "break through" to his beleaguered Ranger Company.† Ranger Cournoyer attached his Ranger to the 1st battalion, 7th Infantry, 3d Infantry Division. The battalion commander chose the Rangers to "Lead the Way".† They fought through thousands of enemy soldiers and opened a route for withdrawal to friendly lines, Ranger Cournoyer displayed aggressive leadership and courageous spirit. While under heavy enemy automatic weapons fire, he attacked enemy machine gun positions with hand grenades. Ranger Cournoyer fought in all 3rd Ranger Company battles while with the Rangers in Korea. He holds the CIB w/ Star, Senior Parachutist Badge, Glider Badge, 7 Bronze Battle Stars and the Invasion Arrowhead.† He was awarded the French and Belgium Croix de Guerre. Ranger Cournoyer is the example of Ranger fortitude, determination and gallantry that embodies the Ranger Creed. Ranger Joseph R.M. Cournoyer led the way throughout his distinguished Army career.
