WHITE PIGEON, Mich. (AP) — Like both of his brothers, Jonathan W. Edds was a top student at White Pigeon High School who received an appointment to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point.

Edds, an Army first lieutenant, died in Baghdad, Iraq, after insurgents attacked his vehicle using an improvised explosive device and small arms fire, the Department of Defense announced Monday.

Edds, 24, who died Friday, was born in Hamilton, Ohio, and most recently lived with his wife of about two years, Laura, in Fort Benning, Ga.

Other surviving family members include his parents, Julia and Barry, pastor of White Pigeon Church of Christ, and his two brothers, Capt. Joel Edds of Fort Drum, N.Y., and Cadet Josh Edds of West Point, N.Y.

"Just an outstanding family," school principal Pat West told the Kalamazoo Gazette for a story published Monday. "The boys' accomplishments speak volumes about Barry and Julia and the boys themselves — their work ethic and determination. All the right stuff, this family has it. It's a great loss."

Edds was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 69th Armor Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 3rd Infantry Division based at Fort Benning.

Edds excelled in the classroom and was a solid performer on his high school's cross country and basketball teams before graduating in 2001, West said.

"He was good at everything," the principal said. "But from my perspective, John's outstanding characteristic was his kindness towards others. He was just a friend to all students."

Joel Edds, who recently returned from a 16-month tour in Afghanistan, said it was his brother, who went by the nickname John, who first came up with the idea of going to West Point. Joel entered in 2000 and John followed a year later, while Josh, the youngest brother, is starting his senior year at the academy.

Joel Edds said Jonathan Edds went to the Mideast last winter and recently was selected to be a scout platoon leader, in charge of about 40 soldiers whom he led on reconnaissance missions. He was killed during the first week in his new position.

"John loved what he did," said his older brother. "John loved his solders. He loved his country and he believed in the mission."

A funeral service and burial with military rites will take place next week at the military academy. Local arrangements were being handled by the Farrand Funeral Home in White Pigeon.