Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Commandant (Major)

Unit:

Forces Françaises de l'Intérieur

Citation:
"This French officer worked in close collaboration with a British liaison officer in south-western France and rendered invaluable help in organizing the resistance in that area. When, after D.Day, the Maquis forces were organized on a military basis he was appointed Chief of Staff and was also given the task of setting up an intelligence service, which proved a most important factor in many operations, notably those which resulted in the immobilization of the Das Reich armoured division for a whole week at a vital period. The movements of this division were closely followed by Poirier's intelligence agents, so that plans could be made accordingly for the destruction of the railways and the blocking of the roads which it was likely to use.

Commandant Poirier never failed to carry out any task, however dangerous, that he was called upon. He showed outstanding courage and devotion to duty at all times, and his personal integrity and sound judgment earned him the respect of all his colleagues, both British and French. He did everything in his power to foster a spirit of sincere Anglo-French cooperation and it is recommended that Commander Poitier be appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (Military Division). (Honorary)."

Signed:
Colin Gubbins
Major-General
21.4.45

Period:

Second World War (1939-1945)

Rank:

Commandant (Major)

Unit:

Forces Françaises de l'Intérieur

Awarded on:

September 12th, 1945