Family Says Noble Soldier Died From Gunfire

Sergeant Allen McKenna of Noble always knew he wanted to be in the military.

"He liked that discipline, to walk with shoulders proud and head high," said his mother Connie Sams-Mitchell.

The 28-year-old soldier was killed on Tuesday in Afghanistan. His mother was told he was shot.

2/22/2012 Related Story: Oklahoma Soldier From Noble Dies In Afghanistan

"I can now tell you personally, you really cannot put into words the pain and the things you feel when you find these out," said Sams-Mitchell.

Her thoughts turn to the family her son leaves behind. Sergeant McKenna was happily married with three young boys ages eight, five and 2-months. McKenna was able to come home in December for the birth of his youngest son.

"His children meant everything to him," said his mother. "Everything he did was based around his family."

McKenna is the second of four boys and the only one to join the military. His mother said she tried to talk him out of joining but there was no stopping his love for the Army and serving his country.

Sergeant McKenna's wife took their three boys to Dover Air Force Base for the soldier's first dignified transfer. Services are pending.

A memorial fund has been set up to benefit Sgt. McKenna's three children. Donations can be made to the Sgt. McKenna Memorial Fund at First State Bank in Noble.