Several members of DeRoo's family, friends and fellow soldiers at Fort Lewis gathered at the Main Post Chapel for a memorial service.

The 25-year-old DeRoo was killed by insurgent gunfire while he was with the Stryker Brigade in Mosul.

He leaves behind his wife Hannah of Gig Harbor, his infant son Gabriel and proud parents.

"I thank God for the few years I got to spend with my hubby and for the precious little boy that he gave me," Hannah said. "And I pray that our son will grow up to be just like his Daddy. Gabe was my hubby, my best friend and my hero and I know one day I'll see him again. But, until then I'm going to miss him more than words can explain."

DeRoo's father David says, "He said 'Dad, I'm healthy, I'm a young man and I owe it to my country. We're the best country on the face of the Earth.' I couldn't argue."

He added, "There's a movie called 'National Treasure'. I know nothing about it, but I know that on August 20th, just 8 days ago, our nation lost one, our son."

Sgt. Deroo grew up in Michigan. He was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart. He is the first Fort Lewis casualty since last March.