By Jennifer Mooney Piedra(jpmooney@MiamiHerald.com) 

His helmet, dog tags and boots rested on the doorstep.

A framed photograph of the hero in uniform greeted visitors in the hallway. And at the front of the Dania Beach church, dozens of American flags and red, white and blue flowers flanked a painting of a smiling 1st Sgt. Michael S. Curry. Family, friends and fellow soldiers paid tribute to the Veteran U.S. Army paratrooper, who grew up in Dania Beach and died in Afghanistan July 23. 

Chilhood friends shared stories about Michael's troubles on the Little League field, while Army buddies spoke of his dedication and leadership on the battlefield. "Mike Curry epitomized the man I want my son to be," said 1st Sgt. La Monta Caldwell. "He taught us how to raise our children, honor our wives and train warriors."

  Curry was part of the 173rd Airborne Brigade out of Caserma Ederle in Vincenza Italy, where he lived with his wife and two sons. Michael Curry enlisted in 1987 after graduating from Hollywood High. He served in the Persian Gulf War and in the Iraq War. In March 2003, he was among a select group of paratroopers to land in Iraq when the U.S.- led invasion started. The life of the 20 year veteran was cut short in the Sarobi District of Afghanistan when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle. Three other soldiers also died. 

The congregation, including dozens of war veterans and enlisted soldiers, also paid tribute to Curry by singing patiotic songs, including The Star Spangled Banner, Battle Hymn of the Republic and God Bless America. Just steps outside the church, a bugler played taps and the honor guard team performed a rifle salute, as a flag at half-staff waved underneath the bright sky. 

In true Army tradition Curry's name was called out in final roll call. "1st Sgt. Michael Curry," No answer "1st Sgt. Michael Curry," No answer  "1st Sgt. Michael Seafred Curry,"  "Sir, he is no longer with us." 

A Soldier Isn't Gone Until He's Forgotten