Family and friends are remembering a Dayton soldier who was killed this week in Iraq.

Family members described Edward Brooks as dedicated, patriotic and a hero.

Brooks graduated in 2000 from Colonel White High School. The flag at the school was flown at half staff Friday in his honor.

Brooks' stepfather, Darryl Duverglas, said his stepson was killed during his third tour of duty.

Duverglas said, He had been previously wounded three times, but he had a big heart and he wasnt scared.

According to the Department of Defense, Brooks was killed by an improvised explosive device. Family members said the device was set off by a suicide bomber.

Those who knew Brooks best said he was a strong, dedicated solider who wanted nothing more but to serve his country.

Duverglas said, No parent wants their child to go to war. No parent wants to bury their child, but it is a decision our children make, and a decision Ill support.

Brooks also has a stepbrother overseas. Both of them got their interest in the military from their high school junior ROTC program.

News Center 7s Jill Del Greco spoke Friday Brooks father who said he will talk to News Center 7 within the next few days about his son.

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