By Kasey Joyce
Roxana, IL (KSDK) - Six U.S. Marines were killed last week in the deadliest helicopter accident in Afghanistan since last August.
Corporal Jesse Stites spent much of his childhood in Roxana, Illinois. Those who knew him say he was kind, respectful, smart and destined to be a marine.
Family friend Gary Stamm says it was devastating to get the call about 23-year-old Stites.
Stites was one of six marines aboard a helicopter that crashed in the Helmund Province of Afghanistan late last week.
News of his death spread back to his former teachers and football coach at Roxana Middle School.
Friends say it was his positive attitude and strong work ethic that helped make him a great marine, and an even better man.
The cause of the crash is still under investigation.
Funeral arrangements are pending, but will likely be held near Stites' wife's hometown in Iowa.
Stites also leaves behind his mother and two sisters.
KSDK