Family & Friends Remember Fallen Marine
WESTMINSTER, Md. (WJZ) -- A Maryland Marine was killed in combat in Afghanistan. Friends and family celebrated the soldier's life Monday.
Weijia Jiang has more.
This young man was well-known for being both a proud soldier and a proud family man. He leaves behind a wife, two sons and a baby on the way.
On Monday afternoon, American flags lined the St. Bartholomew Roman Catholic Church in Manchester, paving the way for hundreds to say goodbye and honor Staff Sergeant James Malachowski, who was killed in Afghanistan last Sunday.
"I have never felt this much pain in my entire life. My son is gone. My little boy is dead," said his mother, Alison Malachowski.
The 25-year-old father of two graduated from North Carroll High School in 2003. Even before that, he knew he wanted to join the Marines as soon as possible.
"He would set himself on a goal and he'd go get it. He did the Marines because it was the hardest thing he could find to do, the biggest challenge," said Michael Guderjohn.
"He wanted to be remembered for what he did and the people looked up to him. Everyone who worked with him looked up to him," said his father.
Even strangers looked up to him. Dozens gathered at the funeral to ensure a peaceful service and to pay their respects.
"He gave the ultimate sacrifice and how else can you say thank you," said one.
Malachowski's mother says her son wanted to go out serving his country. An improvised explosive device ended his life. It was his fourth combat tour.
"It's the best way to go. He died doing what he loved and we should all be so lucky," said one.
He will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery with full honors.
Malachowski's mother and sister also served in the military.
