MS HC80

Commends the valiant service and mourns the loss of United States Navy Commander Joseph Allen LaCour, Jr., who passed away on February 23, 2018.

Commander LaCour served as a naval aviator beginning in 1943, flying multiple aircraft types in both Atlantic and Pacific theaters during World War II, and served aboard USS Corregidor (CVE 58).

After military service, he attended Millsaps College, earned a degree in history, and co-founded J.A. LaCour & Company, an international hardwood import/export business that he actively managed for decades.

Remained in the naval reserves, commanded Air Wing 82 intelligence group from 1968-1971, and retired as Commander in 1984 at age 60 while remaining on the officer recall list for life.

Served his community as president of Canton Country Club and Canton Academy School Board, served on the Vestry of Grace Episcopal Church, and was a passionate advocate for the Boy Scouts of America, achieving the rank of Eagle Scout.