Memorial service held for fallen Marine

NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) - A memorial service was held Monday for Major Samuel Griffith, the Marine Reservist killed in Afghanistan last week. 

Hundreds gathered at Norfolk's First  Baptist Church to say farewell to the fallen soldier. Griffith, 36, was killed by enemy fire five weeks into his third tour of duty.  The air controller volunteered to go.

His wife, Casey, told WAVY.com that Samuel was "one of the most humble and noble people that I've ever known. Sam really has changed many lives. Everyone he has met his whole life, he touched them and made them a better person. He did the same thing with me. I met him and life became better."

His sister Renee Nickell told those attending the service, "He was a man of God. He cherished his family, his wife, his sons, his parents. He could make us laugh 'til we cried. What I wouldn't do to hear that laugh again."

Pastor Andy Meade added, "he loved his country, he loved serving in the Corps. According to the Bible, he demonstrated the greatest love that can be given a person, he laid down his life for others."

The service was capped off with a 21-gun salute and the playing of Taps outside the church, near his prized Mustang Fastback.

Casey said, "I just wanted to say thank you to the entire community of Hampton Roads. Its just been an amazing outpouring of love and support for my husband. And we really just appreciate it and thank you."

A memorial fund in Samuel Griffith's name is set up at Navy Federal Credit Union for his widow and two young sons.