ALLARD, ARTHUR J., JR.

Arthur J. “Al” Allard Jr., 84, of St. Simons Island died Saturday, April 8, 2006, at Hospice of the Golden Isles in Brunswick.

Allard was born on May 23, 1921, in Parris Island, S.C.

He enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1939. When America went to war in 1941 he volunteered for the 1st Raider Battalion, also known as “Edson’s Raiders.” Allard fought in the Battle of Tulagi, the first and second battles of the Matanikau and the Battle of Bloody Ridge on Guadalcanal. His awards include the Presidential Unit Citation, Combat Action Ribbon, Good Conduct Medal, the American Defense Service Medal with four Battle Stars and the World War II Victory Medal.

After his retirement in 1985 from Kraft Bag Company in St. Mary’s, Allard moved to St. Simons Island where he enjoyed golfing with his buddies and get-togethers with the Sandpipers Club.

Allard was preceded in death by his wife, the former Carlotta Haskins of Savannah.

Survivors include his daughters, Holly (Wayne) Thompson of St. Simons Island and Judy (Frank) Marchione of Attleboro, Mass.; five grandchildren; and two great-grandchildren.

Edo Miller & Sons Funeral Home in Brunswick is in charge of arrangements.

A celebration of his life will be held at 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 12 in the home of his daughter, 120 Dunbarton Drive, St. Simons Island.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions be made to Hospice of the Golden Isles, 1692 Glynco Parkway, Brunswick, GA 31525 or the American Cancer Society, 3011 Hampton Ave., Brunswick, GA 31520.