PORTERVILLE, Calif. (KMPH) -
A Porterville mother is mourning the loss of her 21-year-old son killed while serving overseas.
A.J. Pardo and 5 other soldiers were killed during an attack Sunday in Afghanistan.
On Tuesday night, dozens gathered inside Porterville's Holy Cross Catholic Church to honor Pardo.
Maurice Tenorio is the parish youth leader and Pardo's godfather.
Tenorio says he spoke with Pardo on the day he left for Afghanistan, the 21-year-old told him he was afraid but also had a lot of peace.
Maurice Tenorio says, "He knew what he needed to do and said if it wasn't him then who else would go! That was the type of person A.J. was."
James Lopez says, "Pardo knew what was most important. He always put friends and family first."
Pardo was a 2009 graduate of Granite Hills High School and was very active in his youth group.
Many say although the 21-year-old was young, they learned a lot from him. Most importantly, to live life with no regrets.
His body is expected to arrive back to the Valley sometime Thursday or Friday.
Funeral arraignments are pending, but will likely be held at Holy Cross Catholic Church in Porterville.
