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Community Mourns & Remembers Fallen Colorado Soldier

LONGMONT, Colo. (CBS4) - The Longmont community came together on Saturday to pay their respects to a young man who was killed in action while serving in the U.S. Army in Afghanistan.

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Gabriel Conde's mother, Donna Conde speaks at his memorial service. (credit: CBS)

Spc. Gabriel Conde, 22, was remembered by friends and family as a warrior and as a protector. Every speaker remembered fond memories of their times with Conde saying he was confident, encouraging, a great man and a lover of God.

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(credit: Army)

Conde's service was broadcasted online to troops in Alaska and Afghanistan who served with him.

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Gabriel Conde's father, Bob Conde speaks at his memorial service. (credit: CBS)

Conde's body arrived in Colorado Friday. Dozens of people lined the streets of Berthoud, holding flags, as Conde's casket was escorted through town.

PHOTO GALLERY: Spc. Gabriel Conde Funeral Procession

"He should not have had to die for that. But, because he did, it makes (our respect) so much greater," Isabella Norris, a JROTC cadet, said. "Their son died a hero. He will be continued to be honored, and respected, forever. We have brought him home today."

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