A local Marine who lost his life as a Good Samaritan, attempting to help someone on the side of a roadway, was honored last week by the DeKalb County Commission. The commission adopted a resolution last month, but waited until it could be framed before presenting it to the Marine’s family.
The resolution honors 20-year-old Lance Cpl. Alberto Lucio, a 2019 graduate of DeKalb County High School. Lucio was struck and killed on December 6, 2021, while assisting a disabled SUV involved in a crash on Interstate 5, near Camp Pendleton in San Diego, California, where Lucio was stationed. The California Highway Patrol reported that a box truck crashed into Lucio and the SUV, killing Lucio at the scene.
Lucio was a member of the Security and Emergency Services Battalion at Camp Pendleton. His military awards included the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal. In a statement after the crash, battalion commanding officer Col. John Black said Lucio “performed a noble and selfless act” when he stopped to provide “critical aid to a person in need.”
“Lance Cpl. Lucio gave his life in the service of others. His actions epitomized servant leadership and personified the very best in our emergency services personnel,” Black said. “Please honor Lance Cpl. Lucio’s memory through your actions, words and deeds.”
Lucio’s father, mother and sister were in attendance during the County Commission meeting, where the resolution was read aloud in both English and Spanish.
The Resolution reads as follows:
“Whereas, the DeKalb County Commission brings time to honor the life of Alberto Lucio,
“Whereas, Alberto Lucio was born on May 28, 2001 in Smithville, Tennessee,
“Whereas, Lucio was a graduate of DeKalb County High School in 2019,
“Whereas, Lucio was a member of the Iglesia Bethel Church,
“Whereas, Lucio joined the United States Marine Corps on September 9th, 2019,
“Whereas, Lucio graduated from the Parris Island, South Carolina Boot Camp,
“Whereas, Lucio was assigned to the 2nd platoon, military police company, where he was promoted to the position of Lance Corporal in 2020,
“Whereas, Lucio was charged with the duties of maintaining the well-being and safety of Camp Pendleton’s marines and civilians,
“Whereas, Lucio received the National Defense Service Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal,
“Whereas, Lucio passed away on December 6, 2021 while attempting to assist a bystander that had a motor vehicle accident,
“Whereas, Lucio gave his life in the service of others with actions of true hospitality and servant leadership,
“Whereas, Lucio leaves behind his beloved wife, Stephany Lucio, His father and mother, Jose and Nereyda Lucio
“Be it resolved by the DeKalb County Commission that we honor the memory of Alberto Lucio, reflecting fondly upon his impeccable character and his stalwart commitment to living the examined life with courage and conviction.
“Be it further resolved that we express our sympathy and offer our condolences to the family of Alberto Lucio.”
