Sgt. 1st Class Shawn P. "Mac" McCloskey, 33, died Sept. 16, 2009. He was serving with Company B, 3rd Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, Airborne. While conducting a mounted patrol in the Afghan city of Ghur Ghun, his vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device on Sept. 15, 2009. He knew who and what he was fighting for. He was a native of Hudson, N.Y., and grew up in Kennesaw and Peachtree City. He loved carpentry work, and spending time with family and friends. Services were at St. Matthew's Catholic Parish, Tyrone with graveside services at Westminster Memorial Gardens, Peachtree City.

Survivors include his wife, Jessica McCloskey, Raeford, N.C.; a son, Collin McCloskey, Raeford, N.C.; a daughter, Katie McCloskey, Raeford, N.C.; parents, Patrick and Kathryn McCloskey, Fayetteville; a sister, Kelly A. McCloskey Anderson, Fayetteville; and nieces, Morgan Anderson and Emma Anderson, both of Fayetteville. Memorial donations may be made to a scholarship fund for Katie and Collin at any Regions Bank location. Carl J. Mowell & Son Funeral Home, Fayetteville, was in charge.