Cpl. Robert Hendriks, 25, of Locust Valley, was one of three U.S. Marines killed in a roadside bombing earlier this week in Afghanistan.

The Taliban claimed responsibility for the attack north of Kabul, near Bagram Airfield.

Hendriks' younger brother Joe is also a Marine. He was about to start his tour but is now accompanying home his brother's body. Both men graduated from Locust Valley High School, enlisted right after graduation and got their orders to deploy within months of each other.

The flag at the high school is now flying at half-staff in memory of Hendriks.

"Our staff members remember his kindness, passion for service, and commitment to friends, family, and our country," the principal said.

Hendriks grew up in Locust Valley, where neighbors say they were saddened by the "horrible" news.

Hendriks was an infantry machine gun specialist and an animal lover. His family threw him a big going-away party in October and were expecting to welcome him home in the next few months. He wanted to be a police officer and continue helping others.

Hendriks' aunt tearfully told News 12, "He absolutely is a hero, absolutely."

Hendriks was a decorated reservist, having already been awarded numerous medals for his service.

His mother, Felicia Arculeo, sent News 12 a statement in which she partially says, "We are inconsolable and broken into a million pieces."

The full statement can be read below:Funeral arrangements have not been released at this point.

Hendriks' mother is asking for privacy and prayers not only for her sons, but for every other Marine and Marine family.