Clay -- A procession of family and friends headed to a private family cemetery in Clay County, to remember Sergeant Jamie Nicholas and to see the unveiling a life-size monument in his honor.

"He would say it's way too much. He wasn't into the glory for sure, but I think he deserves it and then some," said Jamie's wife Michelle.

During the ceremony Nicholas' sister talked about how his life affected those around him.

"You were a blessing to countless people for your selfless and courageous deeds. Your efforts will impact generations through lives saved and all the good you did. Truly you were a hero, and we thank God you lived," said Cathy Nicholas, Jamie's sister.

Sergeant Nicholas was a member of the Green Berets. Members of his Army Detachment traveled to the area to pay their respects and take part in the service.

"He seemed to be a natural at everything, a man with all the tool and skills, a mentor and a teacher," said Major Aaron Bush, Jamie's Detachment.

Besides the monument, Sergeant Nicholas is also being remembered in a book.

"He was such a joker behind the scenes, and I think that's what is going to surprise people the most is that he was a joker, but at the same time there were a lot of issues at home they would discuss," says Michael Spencer, the author of the book.

"I think the best way to honor him is to never forget him or any soldier for that matter," said Michelle

The monument will make sure that doesn't happen.