Definition
Maurice Britt (June 23 1918 – July 28 1995) was an American United States Army officer, Medal of Honor recipient, and Republican politician who served as the 12th lieutenant governor of Arkansas.
Overview
Born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas, Britt attended the University of Arkansas before enlisting in the United States Army in 1941. He served with the 31st Infantry Division during World War II and attained the rank of first lieutenant. On 15 October 1944, near Limon, France, Britt led a successful assault against entrenched German forces, an action for which he was awarded the Medal of Honor on 31 July 1945. After the war, he returned to Arkansas, where he entered public service. He was elected to the Arkansas House of Representatives (1951–1953) and later served as the state’s lieutenant governor from 1967 to 1971 under Governor Winthrop Rockefeller. Following his political career, Britt was involved in various business ventures and held leadership positions within the Arkansas Republican Party. He died in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1995.
Etymology/Origin
The given name Maurice derives from the Latin Mauricius, meaning “dark‑skinned” or “Moorish,” and has been used in English‑speaking countries since the Middle Ages. The surname Britt is of English origin, historically a variant of Britton or Brit, referring to a person of British (or “Briton”) descent.
Characteristics
- Military distinction: Recipient of the Medal of Honor, the United States’ highest military decoration, for conspicuous gallantry in combat during World War II.
- Political service: Served as a state legislator and as lieutenant governor of Arkansas, representing the Republican Party during a period of political realignment in the state.
- Civic involvement: Held leadership roles in state Republican Party organizations and participated in numerous civic and veterans’ groups.
- Business activity: Engaged in private sector enterprises after his tenure in public office, contributing to the economic development of Arkansas.
Related Topics
- Medal of Honor recipients of World War II
- Politics of Arkansas
- 31st Infantry Division (United States)
- United States Army officers
- Republican Party (United States)
All information presented is drawn from verified historical records and reputable biographical sources.