Fallen Oklahoma Sailor's Father Talks About Son

An explosive device detonates in Afghanistan killing one of Oklahoma's finest. Navy Hospitalman Eric Warren, 23, of Shawnee died Saturday, May 26 during Operation Enduring Freedom.

While wiping away tears, Eric's dad told News 9 stories and shared photos of his only son who wanted to follow in his family's footsteps by serving our country

"We were notified by a knock at the door," the same door, Marvin Warren says his son walked out of just a few months before. "We started walking to the door and we saw through the glass that it was two Navy men and a sheriff's deputy."  

Marvin expected his son back in Shawnee by August.

"We knew what had happened," said Marvin.

Eric would not be coming home. Embedded with the Marines in Afghanistan, the sailor provided medical care in combat situations similar to the one that took his life and he knew the dangers.

"He was real passionate about being with his guys over there," said Marvin, pausing to wipe away his tears. "He wanted to make sure they were safe." 

Marvin says his son never put himself first and the only enemy he knew was at war.

"Everyone liked him and it didn't take long for people to know him as very outgoing."

While looking back on happier times in photographs, the family remembers Eric's love for wrestling and football and his plans to coach in the future.

"He was a great kid. He loved sports. He loved church," said Marvin, now left with just memories of the past. "I miss talking to him and being with him."  

The family is holding onto the only thing they can: photographs.

"It's just a horrible thing people shouldn't have to go through…losing a child."

Marvin says they talked to Eric just two days before the explosion, when he called to wish his mom a ‘Happy Birthday' and tell them he loved them.