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Celebrated Military History

Did You Know that Camp Lejeune, a U.S. Marine Corps base in North Carolina, is named after a native of Pointe Coupée Parish?

Lt. General John Archer Lejeune was born 10 January 1867 at Old Hickory Plantation near Raccourci. He graduated from Louisiana State University, followed by the U.S. Naval Academy in 1888. By 1916, he was promoted to lieutenant general. He was 13th Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, and most noted for his time as commanding general of the famous Second Division (U.S. Army) during World War I. During one battle, he led three branches of the military together: Army, Marines and Navy sailors. Lt. General John Archer Lejeune died November 20, 1942, in Baltimore, MD.

In old Banner articles, he was always recognized for his accomplishments during his lifetime. His visits home were also mentioned and celebrated. Lt. General Lejeune remained loyal to his family in Pointe Coupee, extending to family who moved to other states. The Charles Lejeune family, then living in Dayton, OH, recall fondly his visit in the early 1930s, humbly and proud in his uniform adorned with medals.

A Bronze statute stands in his honor in front of the Pointe Coupée Parish courthouse.

for more information about Lt. General John Archer Lejeune see his own book titled: "The Reminiscences of a Marine"

Also see the websites of the Arlington National Cemetery http://www.arlingtoncemetery.net/lejeune.htm , and USMC Camp Lejeune http://www.lejeune.usmc.mil/mcb/history.asp