Chris Moon is often referred to as the Pat Tillman of Tucson.
Moon gave up a scholarship to play baseball at the University of Arizona and instead served his country. He died after stepping on a roadside bomb in Afghanistan.
Monday night, a statue and memorial were unveiled at Cherry Field, where Moon played high school baseball for the Tucson Badgers.
"Always remember, our military men and women who have made great sacrifices for our freedoms," said gold star mom Marsha Moon, who was overcome with emotion.
Numerous speakers remembered Moon as a friend, family member, and teammate.
"Chris was the type of person who walked in a room and made everyone feel comfortable," said Edgar Soto, the Pima College athletic director.
Moon was awarded the Bronze Star Medal, the Purple Heart, the Army Commendation Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and numerous other honors.
Fundraising for the statue was led by Tucson High trainer Mike Boese. The annual Chris Moon Memorial Baseball Tournament takes place next week at Cherry Field, where the statue will reside.
