Sgt. Mark T. Smykowski, 23, of Mentor, Ohio, died after his vehicle ran over a bomb in Iraq's Anbar province. He was assigned to the 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Lejeune, said 2nd Lt. Shawn Mercer.

Smykowski joined the Marines in August 2000, along with two friends. His brother, Darren, and three more friends went into the Marines in 2002 after graduation from Mentor High School. The "band of seven," as they were known, all graduated from Mentor and played hockey together, said Bert Smykowski, Mark and Darren's father.

Mark Smykowski will be remembered as a leader whose playfulness complemented his commanding presence. He felt a strong duty to his country, re-enlisting twice since his service began, his father said.

Smykowski was diligent and focused when he had to be, but he also knew when to let his inner goofball shine, his father said. He made a point of making connections with Iraqi children.

Smykowski made a trip to Costa Rica with his girlfriend this spring. His father called it a well-deserved vacation after years of dedicated service.

Smykowski will be buried at Arlington National Cemetery.