South Jersey Man Killed in Iraq

Eric Snell grew up in Hamilton Township. He was a star athlete at Hamilton High School West in the late 80s, but he was also a beloved father and family man.

"I sent him an email saying Happy Father's Day and he told me it was good hearing from me. He told me to work hard in school," explained Shameer Horton.

That was the last communication Horton had with his father. 35-year-old Sgt. Eric Snell was killed in Iraq on Monday when insurgents attacked his unit.

"I'll miss Eric for lots of things, but mostly for being here as the father of his kids and all the things that he planned to do for them," said his mother, Mittie White.

Snell was an outstanding high school athlete and was even drafted by the Cleveland Indians. He went to college instead. He was a clothing model here and abroad.

In 2005, Snell joined the army and went to Iraq last October. After the army, Sgt. Snell hoped to work for Homeland Security or the FBI.

"My brother set high standards for me to never let myself be limited by anything," said Alaina Snell.

Sgt. Snell's dad is retired Air Force. His mom spent 15 years in the Air Force Reserves. Nothing could prepare them for this loss

"It's a waste. It's a waste of humanity to lose someone of Eric's caliber," said Arthur Snell.

The death of Shameer's father comes on the heals of the loss of his best friend. Chris Somma was honored by his high school just days before his death from cancer. Shameer said he spoke with his dad about it.

"He told me to be strong, that's part of life. He was really sorry that it happened, but after I talked to him I felt a little better," said Shameer.

Shameer will be a senior next year and says he will definitely go to college. It is what his father wanted.

A military funeral is being planned for Sgt. Snell on Saturday, June 30th.

(Copyright 2007 by Action News and 6abc. All Rights Reserved.)

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