The 4x4 was being driven on the Combre d'Ire Road in Chevaline, near Annecy, about 20 minutes before the shooting, the force said.

BBC: French Alps shooting: UK vehicle appeal

But two years later, the officer's meteoric career took a dive, when he was accused of using excessive force, shooting a motorcyclist in the leg, CNN affiliate KYW reported.

CNN: Hero cop, who sat next to the first lady, charged with rape

We have never before in our history tried to wage a sustained global shooting war with an all-volunteer force.

CENTERFORSECURITYPOLICY: War President