Fallen Marine Nick Xiarhos's football number retired

DENNIS, Mass. - Nicholas Xiarhos was killed in Afghanistan less than three months ago, and on Friday night, his town gave him one of the highest honors they have to give. The Dennis Yarmouth football team retired his number.

“That's what he trained to do. This was what he wanted to do. That was his dream. He was living it. Not many people had that opportunity,” said his mother, Lisa Xiarhos.

As the national anthem played, Police Lt. Steve Xiarhos saluted the flag his son paid the ultimate sacrifice defending.

His family took the very field Nick used to play on just a few years ago, to accept his retired jersey modestly, just as their son would have.

“Nick really didn't want all this attention. He was a quiet kid. He would laugh and be proud,” said Steve Xiarhos.

Nick was an offensive lineman and 2006 graduate of Dennis Yarmouth High School. He was a warrior on the field and in life. Now, his number will forever stand as a symbol to all those who follow.

This is the only time the school has retired a player’s number.