Bill Moisan

Who was Bill Moisan?

William Joseph Moisan, Jr. was a pitcher in Major League Baseball who played briefly for the Chicago Cubs during the 1953 season. Listed at 6 ft 1 in, 170 lb., he batted left-handed and threw right-handed.

Moisan was the son of William J. and Beatrice A. Moisan. He was born in Bradford, Massachusetts, and grew up in Newton, New Hampshire. In his youth he was interested in baseball, and aspired to become a major leaguer. He graduated at Sanborn Seminary, Kingston, and went on to attend McIntosh Business College before entering military service in December 1943.

A decorated veteran of World War II, Moisan was stationed at Fort Benning, Georgia, and then Fort Bragg, North Carolina, before going overseas with Company G of the 398th Infantry Regiment, 100th Infantry Division. As a technician fifth grade, he served in France in 1944, and was part of the Allied advance into Germany in May 1945, earning the Silver Star at Jagstfeld. He also received the Bronze Star Medal, Purple Heart, Combat Infantryman Badge, and battle ribbons with two stars. After being captured by the German forces and as a prisoner of war, Moisan endured a 32-day forced march across Germany into Austria. He suffered frozen feet and his weight dropped from 185 pounds to just 95 pounds. When he was discharged in December 1945, his feet were so tender that he was unable to cope with the infield work required around first base, his normal position, but still wanted to pursue a career in professional baseball.