Video: Bothell marine killed in Afghanistan

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BOTHELL, Wash. - Even as a young boy, Lt. Nic Madrazo's mother knew exactly what her eldest son was destined for.

"He used to play army men when he was a little boy and dress up his brothers and they would all play," said Jenny Madrazo.

On Thursday, his family gathered to remember the young man affectionately known in as the leader of the bunch.

"There's 17 grandchildren and everyone would do what he wanted because he was so looked up to," said Jenny Madrazo.

A 2001 graduate of Bothell High School, Lt. Madrazo was known as a fun-loving guy who had a passion for soccer, singing and ROTC.

"He was not afraid to admit he was a strong American to fight for this country and was going to do something that he felt was appropriate and right and so he chose that path," said Bothell High School Principal Bob Stewart.

After graduating from Seattle Pacific University three years ago, Lt. Madrazo joined the Marines, serving in Afghanistan.

"He was very proud to wear that uniform," said dad, Joel Madrazo.

His love for the military has had the most profound affect on the little brother he'd often dress up in fatigues.

"Anyone who has an older brother knows how it is," said 20-year-old Jared Madrazo.

Like his brother, Jared is now an ROTC student at Westmont College in California.

"I definitely want to continue the job he started and ah I know that if I could talk to him right now he would tell me to stay with my original plan," said Jared.

Lt. Madrazo's family says above all, they'd like for him to be remembered as a marine who died doing what he felt was right.

"I'm sure he's in heaven and I can be there someday with him, we can all be there one day," said Lt. Madrazo's mom.

Lt. Madrazo was scheduled to return from duty in December.

The family plans to hold a memorial service in Bothell next Saturday.