Xhacob LaTorre was born December 12, 1987, in Arecibo, Puerto Rico, and later made his home in Waterbury, Connecticut. He was raised by Nicolasa “Nicole” LaSalle and Daniel LaTorre Sr., and grew up as part of a close‑knit family that included siblings who shared his sense of adventure and service.

He graduated from Crosby High School in 2005, where he was active in the school’s JROTC program and known for his ability to bring people together with his humor and warmth. Just three days after graduation, Xhacob enlisted in the United States Marine Corps, answering a deep‑seated call to serve his country — a decision motivated by a desire to meet challenges, seek adventure, and defend the freedoms of others.

Following recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, South Carolina, he was assigned to 2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force, based at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. As a mortar man, he deployed first to Ramadi, Iraq, in 2006 and again from 2007–2008, participating in intense combat operations throughout Operation Iraqi Freedom.

In May 2009, Cpl. LaTorre deployed to Helmand Province, Afghanistan, in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. On August 10, 2009, while conducting a patrol in a combat zone, he stepped on an improvised explosive device (IED) that detonated, causing catastrophic injuries that resulted in the loss of both legs. Though gravely wounded, he was evacuated to Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, Texas, where he underwent extensive treatment and rehabilitation.

Despite the severity of his injuries, Cpl. LaTorre’s spirit remained unbroken. His family and caregivers recalled his ability to make others laugh even in the darkest moments, turning pain into strength and laughter into resilience. His humor and presence lifted the spirits of those around him, a testament to his indomitable character.

On December 8, 2009, Corporal Xhacob LaTorre succumbed to complications from his injuries at the age of 21. He was honored with the Purple Heart Medal in his hospital room a day before his passing and was subsequently awarded additional recognitions for his service, including two Combat Action Ribbons, the Good Conduct Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, and the Iraq Campaign Medal.

Cpl. LaTorre was laid to rest with full military honors at the State Veterans Cemetery in Middletown, Connecticut, where family, friends, Marines, and community members gathered to pay tribute to his life and service. Memorial services in Waterbury reflected the city’s profound respect and gratitude, and flags were flown at half‑staff across Connecticut in acknowledgment of his sacrifice.

He is survived by his wife, Frances LaTorre, and their young son, Javier, whose resemblance to his father is often remarked upon by family and friends — a living testament to Xhacob’s life and legacy.

Dates

Birth: December 12, 1987 — Arecibo, Puerto Rico
Angelversary: December 8, 2009 — Helmand Province, Afghanistan

Service & Achievements

United States Marine Corps Corporal
2nd Battalion, 8th Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, II Marine Expeditionary Force — Camp Lejeune, North Carolina
Deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom
Purple Heart Medal, two Combat Action Ribbons, Good Conduct Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal

United States Marine Corps Corporal Xhacob LaTorre’s life stands as a testament to courage, unbroken spirit, and selfless service — a legacy permanently honored by his family, his community, and his nation.

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