Loomis Marine Gives Life to Save Others

LOOMIS (CBS13) — Family and friends are honoring a former marine who gave his life trying to save others off the battlefield.

Todd Asa North was killed earlier this month working as a bouncer at a bar in Havelock, North Carolina, when a fight broke out. Surveillance video shows Todd standing in front of the door, protecting the customers inside as gunfire breaks out.

"He's strong-minded and that's what he was going to do. I don't think he thought twice about it." said Steve March, Todd's former J.V. football coach

Todd was a 1991 graduate of Del Oro High School, where he wrestled and played football. His coaches say he was dedicated, a hard worker and always stood up for others.

"He went down for the count, but he never gave up," marchsaid

Whether it was for the Del Oro football team, or the Marine Corps, he always wore his uniform with pride.

"He was one of those all-out type of guys. I can see where the marines loved him and we loved him too." March said.

Todd grew up in Loomis, where his family still lives now. His former coach was shocked to hear the tragic news, but not surprised by Todd's actions. He says even in the heat of battle while serving as a Marine, Todd was always brave.

"He crawled down in the engine of a plane to put duct tape on it, because the plane was going down, and he covered a certain part of it to keep it from crashing," March said.

Police have arrested an 18-year-old who was also shot. He's facing murder charges for killing a man who friends say wouldn't hesitate to put his life on the line to save others.

"It was a pleasure to coach him and an honor to know him," March said.

The school has set up a memorial scholarship fund in Todd's name, and he'll be honored by the Marine Corps. this weekend in North Carolina.

There's also an online petition to award the Presidential Citizens Medal for Todd. A local memorial is planned for him on July 4.