Fitzmaurice joined the United States Army from his birth city of Jamestown, North Dakota in 1969,[1] and by March 23, 1971, was serving as a specialist four in Troop D, 2nd Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division.

[2] During a firefight on that day, in Khe Sanh, Republic of Vietnam, Fitzmaurice smothered the blast of an enemy-thrown explosive charge with his flak vest and body to protect other soldiers.

[2] Fitzmaurice joined the South Dakota Army and Air National Guard and worked with local VA[4] from 1987 and retired in 2011.

[6] Specialist Fitzmaurice's official Medal of Honor citation reads: For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty.

Fitzmaurice's extraordinary heroism in action at the risk of his life contributed significantly to the successful defense of the position and resulted in saving the lives of a number of his fellow soldiers.

These acts of heroism go above and beyond the call of duty, are in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service, and reflect great credit on Sp4c.