UKIAH, Calif. – The Pittman family extends an invitation to family, friends and the community to attend a local memorial service honoring Navy SEAL Jesse D. Pittman.

The memorial service will be held at the Ukiah Fairgrounds Saturday, Sept. 24, at 11 a.m.

Pittman was one of 30 U.S. servicemen killed Aug. 6 in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, when their Chinook helicopter was shot down by insurgents.

Pittman was a 2002 Willits High School graduate. He worked as a seasonal firefighter for Cal Fire in 2003 and 2004 before he joined the Navy in March 2005 to pursue his goal of becoming a Navy SEAL.

Pittman attained his goal and in April 2007 reported to the West Coast-based SEAL team.

He will be sorely missed by his family, friends and fellow Navy SEALs. He loved his country and died a hero.

If anyone would like to make a donation to help with this memorial honoring Pittman, please send your donation to Agape Bible Church, c/o Jesse Pittman Fund, 290 S. Lenore, Willits, CA 95490.