This Veterans Day has a special meaning for people living in and around Holland Patent. The community honored fallen Marine Lance Corporal Blaise Oleski who was killed earlier this year in Afghanistan. As Iris St. Meran explains, the community now has a permanent memorial.

HOLLAND PATENT, N.Y. -- While Americans stopped to reflect on the sacrifices all veterans have made, the community of Holland Patent and beyond personally reflected on the sacrifice of fallen Marine Lance Corporal Blaise Oleski.

"Blaise knew he would be a member of the Marines from about age 5. He was doing what he planned and we are very proud of him," said his father, Paul Oleski.

The 22-year-old enlisted in the Marine Corps in 2006, fulfilling his lifelong plan. In April, he was killed during combat operations in Afghanistan. His mother reflected on a conversation they had on his commitment to serve his country.

"Tell them we willingly gave our today, for their tomorrow. Mom, I need five lifetimes to do everything I want to do," said his mother, Theresa Oleski.

And for all that he did, Route 365 in the Village of Holland Patent is a tribute to him. The "Marine Lance Corporal Blaise Oleski Memorial Highway" was dedicated on this Veterans Day. Several members from his Battalion based in Camp Lejeune, North Carolina traveled here to be part of this special ceremony.

"He had a way about him inspired not only the guys that worked for him, but also his peers. It's not an easy position to be in charge of your peers, the guys that you grew up in the Marine Corps with, went to boot camp with. He had a special air about him," said First Lieutenant Joseph Manzi, Lima Company Commander, 3rd Battalion.

What made him special: His quiet confidence and selflessness will always be on the minds and in the hearts of those who crossed paths with him. And Route 365 be a tribute to him for strangers and friends who pass by and see his name.

Oleski was a 2004 graduate of Holland Patent High School.