Marine Lance Corporal Derek Hernandez training schedule still hangs on the wall.
A map of Afghanistan, “X” marked the spot where he would be deployed, his first ever.
Everything was left just the way he wanted, nice and organized, just waiting for his return.
But for Lance Corporal Hernandez the bed will stay fixed, training schedule will hang, and the hope of him coming home will slowly fade.
"We're going to miss you Derek so much," said mother Virginia Reyna.
Emotions ran high as Derek’s mother allowed our cameras into her home as she spoke about her son and how she proud she is of him.
But not letting us forget that she is a mother who has just suffered a tremendous loss.
"You will always be in our hearts---don't you ever forget that....I love you," said Reyna.
Close family friend, Judge Ricardo Rodriguez, spoke on behalf of the family.
He praised Derek for all of his accomplishments and the sacrifice he made for his country.
"We must remember that today we get to enjoy our life and liberty and freedom because of individuals like Lance Corporal Hernandez."
As the family continues to grieve, they remember Derek for his love, compassion, and kindness towards others.
Hernandez body arrived at Dover Air Force Base Tuesday afternoon.
His family tells Action 4 News they expect him back in the Valley within the next four to six days.
The family is having a prayer and memorial service in his honor on Thursday at the Edinburg Municipal Auditorium at 6pm.
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