People in the home state of Lance Cpl. Alfonso Ochoa Jr. — the 20-year-old Kane'ohe-based Marine killed in action Saturday in Afghanistan — were saddened yesterday by news of the young man's death.

Ochoa, an Armona, Calif., native, died while supporting combat operations in Farah province, in the southwest part of Afghanistan.

"He was such a caring individual, who would give you the shirt off his back," Mike Richardson, a close friend of Ochoa's, said on the Los Angeles Times' Web site. "He will truly be missed."

"Alfonso is my hero," added Eve Mendoza, another friend, also on the Times' site. "He showed me the ropes to life, and thanks to him I'm a better person."

California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger issued a statement calling Ochoa "a brave young man whose commitment to serving his country will always be remembered. We send our condolences to all of Alfonso's loved ones who are mourning this terrible loss."

Flags at the state Capitol in Sacramento were flown at half-staff to honor Ochoa.

According to a report by CBS 47 TV in Fresno, shortly after his 18th birthday Ochoa transferred from Hanford West High to Hanford Adult School, so he could graduate early and enter the Marine Corps in January 2008.

Hanford West principal Bobby Peters remembered Ochoa as bright and respectful, and the kind of person who could be an inspiration to others, the CBS 47 report said. He described Ochoa as a good student who worked hard and didn't make excuses.

"He knew what he wanted to do," said Peters, who recalled that during Ochoa's junior year the student told him he wanted to join the military as a way to serve his country, better his life and continue his education.

"He sticks out in my mind. ... His is one of those stories that I tell other kids when they may be facing some adversity in their life."

Ochoa joined the Marines on Jan. 13, 2008, and reported to the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, one week later.