Joseph Figura III

Joseph Figura III spent his life dedicated to serving his country, both domestically and abroad. He enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in January 1981, right after graduating high school. Over his 21 years of service, Joseph rose from enlisted man to Chief Warrant Officer III. His role as an Aircraft Maintenance Engineer Officer took him through key operations during Desert Shield and Desert Storm. Joseph participated in numerous carrier operations in the Gulf. Throughout his military career, he earned several prestigious awards, including three Navy/Marine Achievement Medals, four Good Conduct Medals, a Meritorious Service Medal, and a National Defense Service Medal. He also earned a degree in Aviation Management from Southern Illinois University.

Continuing Service: Cobb County Police and Sheriff’s Department

After retiring from the Marine Corps, Joseph continued serving his country in a new role with the Cobb County Police Department and later the Cobb County Sheriff’s Department. On July 7, 2003, Joseph’s swift actions saved a man’s life. When he witnessed a man struggling with respiratory distress and a seizure, he quickly stepped in to help. His quick thinking was critical in the man’s survival. As a result, Joseph received the Life Saving Award in 2004 from the Cobb County Police Department.

Remembering a Hometown Hero

Joseph Figura III passed away unexpectedly on November 25, 2014, but his legacy of service lives on. He was known for his kindness and willingness to help others. His family was always his greatest priority. In 2017, ALCOVA Mortgage honored Joseph’s memory by naming him one of the company’s Hometown Heroes. His wife, Suellen Figura, accepted the Hometown Hero plaque and a $500 check in his honor.