Gold Star family remembers beloved sergeant killed in action

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TAUNTON, Mass. - This Memorial Day is especially emotional for a Taunton family as they prepare to mark the 10th anniversary since their loved one was killed in action.

Sergeant Shane Duffy was killed on June 4, 2008 while serving in Iraq. Two other members of his unit also died that day.

Service runs deep in the Duffy family, where five generations have fought for and served our country.
"The most important thing is that you start to understand what Memorial Day is," said Keavin Duffy, Sergeant Shane Duffy's brother.

Sgt. Duffy was just two weeks away from finishing his 4-year tour of duty when he was called to return to Iraq. At the time, his wife was about to give birth to their daughter, Mackenzie.

"They let him stay home until his baby was born," said Shane’s father, Keavin Duffy. "His daughter was born on September 11, 2007 and two days later he leaves for Iraq again."

Keavin Duffy, Shane's father, said they had a conversation when Shane returned for a visit where Keavin asked Shane to stay.

"Shane looked right at me and said, 'Dad, I can't do that, you and grandpa taught me better than that, I have to go back for my soldiers, even if I don't like the situation - my soldiers are depending on me,'" said Keavin.

Soon after Shane returned to Iraq, Keavin said his wife called him at work, saying Shane had been killed along with two other soldiers. Shane was 22 at the time.

"Moving forward, one of the greatest memories we can have is actually a living memory of my brother and my niece Mackenzie," said Shane's brother.

For Keavin, his message to those enjoying this Memorial Day is to have fun and remember the true reason for this day. But, the most important message he has is to always keep family as close as possible.

"The biggest thing I have to say - that little kid of yours? Give them a hug everyday, tell them you love them," said Keavin.

Cox Media Group