By Norma Yuriar

Merced, Calif.  (KMPH News) - It's the kind of a knock on the door no military family ever could ever prepare for.  On Friday, a Merced mother answered the door to find two uniformed officers bearing the news she feared most.

"She was really upset.  She shut the door and said this can't be happening."  At that moment Yancy Hopper says his wife Robin knew their only son, Private First Class Lukas Hopper was gone.

The 20 year-old died October 30th from injuries he sustained when his armored vehicle rolled over southeast of Kardah in Iraq.  He was on a mission supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom, the Department of Defense said.

"He usually was the gunner; it's the most dangerous spot when there is a vehicle roll over," Mr. Hopper said.  "The only thing they told us is that it was a vehicle accident."

The north valley soldier was scheduled to come home on November 9th, about a week before the accident.

Pfc. Hopper is survived by his parents and two sisters, Shantal and Celeste Hopper.

The girls attended Golden Valley in Merced.  It's the same school where their older brother received a diploma in 2007.

"He was always very enthusiastic in class," Teacher Jared Lawson said.  "I had him in Government Class.  He was really into politics and current events.  He always had a lot to say and he spoke his mind very clearly."

Mr. Lawson says his former student was also very excited about his career choice.

"I saw [Lukas] before he went to Iraq.  "He was proud of what he was going to do," Lawson said.

In his memory the day at Golden Valley High School began with a moment of silence.  A fitting tribute for the young man who in eighth grade made a trip to the East Coast that would shape his future.

"In 8th grade [following September 11th] he had gone to New York and saw ground zero.  At that point felt inspired to something, so he did," Mr. Hopper said.

The community is also paying tribute.  The Hoppers say someone surprised them Sunday morning by placing American Flags on their front lawn, a gesture that brought them to tears.

They don't know who did it, Mrs. Hopper said, "but we are very touched."

Memorial and Funeral plans are pending.

On Monday, Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger released the following statement:

"Maria and I extend our deepest sympathies to the loved ones of Private First Class Lukas Hopper.  He will be remembered for his courage and dedication as he put his life on the line to protect the freedoms of our country.  His sacrifice will not be forgotten and we join all Californians in mourning this terrible loss."

Flags at the Merced Civic Center, other city buildings and the state Capitol will be flown at half-staff in honor of Pfc. Lukas C. Hopper.