WNEP -- Family and friends gathered Wednesday to remember Specialist William Evans, 22, of Hallstead. The National Guard soldier was killed while on patrol in Iraq Monday.

His father sat beside the photo of his son Wednesday as members of the National Guard confirmed the explosion that took the life of three Pennsylvania soldiers.

With tears in his eyes and disbelief in his mind, he listened as the details of his son's death were released.

"He was a driver for a Bradley fighting vehicle. They are trained to do combat operations, conduct patrols and ensure the insurgents know this is where we are and we are here to make our presence known," said Major Steven Zarnowski of the 2nd Brigade.

Monday SPC Evans was on routine patrol when his convoy was attacked in Al Ramadi, Al Anbar province. Officials said the explosive device is usually camouflaged and is detonated by remote.

"It was an improved explosive devise that is used often by insurgents in Iraq. That is the biggest threat to our soldiers now," the major explained.

SPC Evans, a Hallstead native, was deployed to Iraq in June with 2,100 other Pennsylvania National Guard members. He had a family history of service to the New Milford 109th Reserve Unit. Several cousins had served before him.

Those who knew Evans best said he was the life of any party, the family clown, the one who went out of his way to make you smile and laugh.

"He had a lot of energy, outgoing. Once he set his mind to do something you couldn't stop him from doing it. That was one of the best things about him," said friend Cadet Andrew Park. "He's going to be sorely missed around here for sure."