A Kansas Marine's mother speaks out to honor the memory of her son who was killed overseas in Iraq. 19-year-old Marine Private 1st Class Ryan Cox died Sunday near the town of Najaf, that's south of Baghdad. The military will only say he died when a weapon fired, but it was not in combat. Cox graduated from high school in Derby, but he grew up in Wellington.

Robin Hamilton had to hear the words no mother ever wants to hear when she was informed of Ryan's death. She spoke to him last week. Ryan talked about going to Baghdad and that he was probably going to be overseas longer than originally planned. "I have no regrets, I can't be angry," says Hamilton. "They were doing their jobs, they're protecting us and things happen." Hamilton was so happy her son was getting to see the world and live life to the fullest. "He joined the marines, had a goal, her served his country, he was...there's nothing like having a marine for a son."

Ryan was also a friend to many. So much so, Aaron Norton asked to share this about his best friend: "He really was a hero, do anything for you," says Norton. As a proud Marine mom, Hamilton says she will continue to wear Ryan's button on here chest, knowing that her son will be in her heart forever.

Ryan's body will be coming home sometime in the next 10 days. His family is making funeral plans. Ryan's mom also says they hope to establish a Ryan Cox Memorial Scholarship for people to donate to in lieu of flowers.