Seven years. Seven deaths.

Many Americans were thrilled when President Barack Obama announced the end of United States combat in Iraq.

For some, it meant siblings, children, husbands, wives, parents, relatives and friends would soon be coming home.

For others, the end couldn't change the heartbreaking emotions experienced during the seven years of warfare.

"I wouldn't want anybody to go through what I'm still going through," said Betty Kline, mother of Keith Kline who died at age 24 on July 5, 2007, in Baghdad. "I just want people to remember what he gave. He gave his life for his country."

Kline was one of seven area military men who died fighting during the Iraq War.

The fallen soldiers will surely be remembered for their patriotism and their heroism defending a land Americans call home.

But their legacies will continue forever.

Nearly six years ago, former Monroeville resident and U.S. Army PV2 Jason Sparks died in Fallujah, Iraq, at age 19.

Sparks' father, Scott, recalls the last conversation he had with his son on Aug. 30, 2004.

"He called to tell us he was going to be in an article for (military newspaper) Stars and Stripes about hydration," Scott said. "(Then) he told us that he loved us."

The community is returning an honor back to the Sparks.

Clark Park in Monroeville will dedicate its new baseball stadium in honor of Sparks, who was a left-handed pitcher and first baseman for the Monroeville Eagles.

Baseball will only be one legacy Sparks -- who aspired to become a dentist -- leaves behind.

"He cared about everybody he came into contact with," Scott said. "He was always a big hugger, he was just a lot of fun to be around, he was always helping people. He was just an all-around good kid."

Kline, who was also in the U.S. Army, also lived life to the fullest, Betty said.

A renowned high school wrestler, Kline applied the same determination he showed on the mats to propel him through high school and boot camp.

The last full day of his life was actually his favorite -- Independence Day.

And that's exactly what he wanted to ensure for the millions he fought for -- that people across the world could enjoy the same freedoms.

"I consider him a hero," Betty said. "If he was alive, he'd say 'I'm not a hero, I was just doing my job. A job I loved."'

A look back at our area's fallen sons:

Keith Kline (Army)

Died: July 5, 2007 in Baghdad

Age: 24

Hometown: Oak Harbor

Jonathon Martin (Army)

Died: Nov. 22, 2007 in Germany after wounded Nov. 9 in Jisr Naft, Iraq

Age: 33

Hometown: Bellevue

Jeremey Shock (Marine Corps)

Died: Nov. 19, 2006 in Fallujah

Age: 22

Hometown: Tiffin/Green Springs

Michael Finke (Marine Corps)

Died: Jan. 26, 2005 in Korean Village, Iraq

Age: 28

Hometown: Huron

Jason Sparks (Army)

Died: Sept. 8, 2004 in Fallujah

Age: 19

Hometown: Monroeville

Charles Odums (Army)

Died: May 31, 2004 in Baghdad

Age: 22

Hometown: Sandusky

Benjamin Biskie (Army)

Died: Dec. 24, 2003 in Samarra

Age: 27

Hometown: Vermilion