Lt. Joseph Fournier, USMC, one of six sons of Mr. and Mrs. Peter Fournier of 58 Fourth Street, Auburn, was killed in action on Sept. 19 (1944) on Peleliu, the Pelau Islands, according to word received here this weekend. Lt. Fournier’s wife, the former Miss Lilah Peterson of Seattle, Wash, and baby daughter, Joline, are making their home on the West Coast.
Lt. Fournier had received several citations and medals, including the Purple Heart, the Bronze Star with Valor and a letter of Commendation. Prior to enlisting in the Marine Corps, the Lieutenant served two years with the US Army in the Panama Canal Zone. Enlisting in the Marine Corps in 1939, Fournier served on the USS Lexington CV-2, the last six months assigned as Gun Captain for one of the Big Guns on board. Upon his return to San Diego he was assigned to sniper training with the Eight Marines. On completion he traveled to the European Front for joint training with the British Commandos, one of the first twenty-two Marines to join them.
Returning stateside Fournier was an instructor for the 9th Marines. Receiving his Commission as a 2nd Lt. he was assigned to the 4th Raider Bn. As an instructor and later in charge of the Raider Replacement Training Center. The Lieutenant had been in the South Pacific area for about 18 months.
Surviving are his wife and baby daughter, his parents, five brothers, Pvt. Gilbert D., P.O.2-c Romeo P. USN, 1st Lt. Charles Aime, a fighter pilot in France, Henry P., USN stationed at Sampson, N.Y., youngest brother Roger and five sisters, Mrs. Laureanne Paquette, Mrs. Priscilla Bilodeau, Misses Theresa, Germaine, and Juliette, his grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Emery Castonguay.
Historian note: Lt Fournier was KIA on Peleliu and received the Navy Cross.