A Massachusetts man was among three U.S. soldiers killed when their vehicle was struck by an improvised explosive device in Afghanistan Tuesday.

39-year-old Sergeant First Class Eric Michael Emond grew up in Fall River, and was on his seventh overseas tour. Emond had more than 21 years of military service, first in the Marine Corps, and then in the Army. He received multiple awards and decorations, including a Purple Heart.

Emond was one of the founders of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes, a non-profit helping Gold Star families and fellow Veterans.

“Eric was a part of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes from day one. He was in the room at Florian Hall developing our mission, creating our logo, and ultimately designing our memorial from the back of a napkin.” said Dan Magoon, Executive Director of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes. “This organization would not exist if it wasn't for Eric’s commitment and dedication, along with the support of his wife and sister.”

Emond, who the non-profit called "a tried and true Patriot," was assigned to 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne), Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Most recently, he was living in Brush Prairie, Washington.

“Sadly, our mission has become all too real," said Dan Magoon, executive director of Massachusetts Fallen Heroes, in a statement. "Eric and the Emond family have become a part of our Gold Star Family community. We will honor him as we have the other brave men and women on our memorial. We will care for his family as he did for all Gold Star Families.”

The incident that killed him and two other soldiers in under investigation.

Emond is survived by his wife and three children.

“When people pass by our memorial, we ask that they take a moment to Honor all Gold Star Families and the Fallen Heroes that have made the ultimate sacrifice," Magoon said. "Know that the Massachusetts Fallen Heroes Memorial would not have become a reality without Sergeant First Class Eric Emond.”

Several Massachusetts officials offered their condolences to Emond's family on Twitter.

Governor Charlie Baker wrote that he was "deeply saddened to learn of the tragic passing" of Emond, and that "the Commonwealth will be forever grateful for his bravery and honorable service to the country throughout seven tours of duty overseas."

Mayor Marty Walsh offered his "deepest sympathies to the families of all three service members who gave the greatest sacrifice serving our country, including our own Army Sgt. 1st Class Eric Michael Emond."

"Massachusetts lost a son and hero in Afghanistan," U.S. Congressman Seth Moulton wrote. "SFC Eric Eddmont served his country bravely and honorably both overseas and at home ... SFC Emond will not be forgotten."