Wow, I had come here looking for some insight on the lack of skills for fighters, and I found lots of great information and opinions.
after reading over everything, I see that the Fighter really is at a slight disadvantage and I would like to offer the suggestion of increasing the skills per level for fighters to 3.
I really would like the suggestion of 4 skill points at first level for "background" skills. having said that, I think the background skills will end up more of a "house rule" item.
I would also put my bid in the basket for Fighters having a perception or notice skill as a class skill.