A new bust at the Arkansas State Capitol honors Carlisle native and World War II hero Maurice “Footsie” Britt.

During a dedication ceremony July 7 in the Capitol Rotunda, members of Britt’s family joined elected officials as a drape was removed to reveal the bust, created by renowned Arkansas sculptor Kevin Kresse. 

Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders praised Britt’s service to both Arkansas and the nation.

“Just as young Arkansans look up at statues of the Little Rock Nine or at the inscription at War Memorial Stadium or at the monuments to our Founding Fathers in Washington, now they can look up to ‘Footsie’ Britt and rediscover the decency and bravery that made America the greatest nation in the world.” Sanders said.

When Britt was in grade school in Carlisle, a teacher misspelled his first name as Maurice, even though his birth name was Morris, the same as his father’s. The error remained, perhaps because it was overshadowed by his nickname “Footsie,” inspired by his size 13 shoes. 

Born in Carlisle, Britt excelled as an athlete. He played football at Lonoke High School and the University of Arkansas before being selected by the Detroit Lions in the 13th round of the 1941 NFL Draft. 

Britt appeared in nine games for the Lions, catching a go-ahead 45-yard touchdown pass against the Philadelphia Eagles on Nov. 16, 1941. It was the only reception of his NFL career. Less than a month later, the Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor on Dec. 7, bringing the United States into World War II.

A member of the Army Reserve, Britt was deployed to North Africa and later Italy. As an officer in the 3rd Infantry Division, he led troops during the North African, Sicilian and Italian campaigns. He lost his right arm when it was struck by tank fire in early 1944. For his heroism, Britt received the Medal of Honor and four Purple Hearts. Of the 994 NFL players and personnel who served in the armed forces during World War II, Britt was one of only three to receive the Medal of Honor.

In 1966, Britt was elected Arkansas lieutenant governor. In 1971, President Richard Nixon appointed him district director of the Small Business Administration, a position he held until 1985. After the war, Britt owned an aluminum products manufacturing business in Little Rock.

Although Britt’s life took many turns, officials said his commitment to serving others never stopped. Sanders said she hopes his legacy will inspire future generations, just as it reflects the sacrifices of many World War II veterans.

“Footsie’ Britt was like so many of his peers,” Sanders said. “Exceptional in his bravery, patriotism and humility, but common in a generation where so many were brave, patriotic, and humble… I know his legacy will stand strong for generations to come.”

This story was reported by Eli Dean, an intern for The Grand Prairie Herald and a student at Harding University where he is editor of student newspaper The Bison. Information from the Encyclopedia of Arkansas, Friends of the National WWII Memorial and Pro Football Reference was used in this report.