COSTELLO, RAY F.

Pfc. Ray F. Costello, 19, is the latest Marine youth to give up his life for his country, according to an official cablegram received here yesterday by his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Costello, West Jackson Street. The message was dated July 19 and signed by H. Holcomb, Lieut. General, U.S.M.C. Commandant, U.S. Marine Corps from the War Department at Washington.

The message read “Deeply regret to inform you that your son, Pfc. Ray F. Costello of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve, was killed in action [July 1, 1943] in the performance of his duty and in the service of his country. To prevent possible aid to our enemies you will please not divulge the name of the ship or station. The present situation necessitates temporary interment in the locality where death occurred and you will be notified accordingly. Please accept my heartfelt sympathy. A letter will follow.”

Ray was born in Ottawa and was 19-years-old last Wednesday, July 14. He enlisted in the Marines, Sept. 11, 1942 and in a short time was made a member of the Marine Raiders after training in San Diego, Cal. The last his parents heard of him he was at Russell Islands in the Pacific area. The Raiders are known as the attacking squad in land fighting.

He is a graduate of Morris High School. The family came to Morris when Ray was a baby and has resided here since. The father was a soldier in the First World War and is a member of the American Legion. Besides his parents he leaves a brother, Thomas, 20, who is also in the service, having enlisted in aviation Dec. 15, 1942. He is a cadet flyer and expects to receive his wings in November, 1943 at Hutchings, Kan. flying field. His sister, who is now Mrs. Betty Morris, is a lieutenant in the WACS and is stationed at a recruiting station in San Francisco. Her husband is a lieutenant on a submarine somewhere in the Pacific area.

The Costellos have another daughter, Delores, at home.