Fallen Soldier: Aaron C. Torian

Master Sergeant Aaron C. Torian, 36, of Paducah, Ky., was assigned to the 2nd Marine Special Operations Battalion, Marine Special Operations Regiment, U.S. Marine Corps Special Operations Command at Fort Lejeune, N.C., and served during Operation Enduring Freedom. On February 15, 2014, MSgt. Torian was killed when an improvised explosive devise detonated in Helmand province, Afghanistan.

A 1995 graduate of Thomas Stone High School, MSgt. Torian earned his bachelor’s degree in Health and Human Performance in 2001, obtained a master’s degree in Instructional Leadership in 2003 and enlisted in the Marines shortly thereafter. In 2005, he was named 2nd Marine Division’s Noncommissioned Officer of the Year.

“What I admire most about Aaron was his relentless, competitive spirit; unrivaled work capacity and zest for life, family and friends,” said Charlie Goodyear, a long-time friend. “All these things made him an incredible Marine, friend, husband, and father to his family.”

All three of the Torian children are Folds of Honor Scholarship recipients.