Local soldier's legacy lives on

EAST LONGMEADOW, Mass. (WWLP) - Sergeant Mark Ecker's life ended long before his legacy ever will.

"I was heartbroken, truly heart broken. He suffered so much," Mary Omartian said. "He gave so much for our country."

Many people in the community never personally knew the 23-year-old soldier but over the years they closely followed the news on his incredible recovery.

People watched as Ecker was honored with the Purple Heart in Washington, D.C. and as he was named as a hometown hero.

All eyes were on the soldier as he fulfilled a lifelong dream of throwing out the first pitch at Fenway Park.

Those in the community say their heart goes out to his family.

"I feel so sorry for them. They've been through a lot," Dianne Tiago said. "I don't know the gentleman. It's just a sad thing to go through."

The non-profit organization "Homes for our Troops" planned on building Ecker a home on Lindendale Avenue. The land was donated by East Longmeadow.

At the town's 4th of July parade last year Ecker received a hero's welcome.  Forty thousand community members cheered him on including his parents who where there every step of the way.

Dianne White was shocked to learn of Ecker's death. She said his passion for life will forever live on as an inspiration to all.

"I think we all should say a prayer for him tonight and thank him and his family for the sacrifices he made, " she said.