Joseph Rudolph Julian was born in Sturbridge, Massachusetts, on 3 April 1918. He graduated from high school in Southbridge, Massachusetts, and in January 1942 enlisted in the United States Marine Corps Reserve.

Following basic training at Parris Island, South Carolina, he became a Drill Instructor, and, later, was assigned to the 5th Marine Division. He was killed in action on Iwo Jima, 9 March 1945, following a one-man assault on enemy-occupied trenches and fortified positions. The Medal of Honor was awarded him posthumously for heroism above and beyond the call of duty.

The Medal and citation were presented to his parents by the Secretary of the Navy on 15 November 1945. Following the war, Platoon Sgt Julian's remains were reinterred at Long Island National Cemetery, Farmingdale, New York, at the request of his parents.

Medal of Honor Citation