Lance Corporal Matthew R. Rodriguez, United States Marine Corps., 19, of Fairhaven was killed in action in Afghanistan on Wednesday, Dec. 11.

Born in Wareham, the son of Rolando “Rod” and Lisa (Johnson) Rodriguez, he lived in Fairhaven all of his life.

Matthew, who was affectionately known as “Matt-Man” and “Smiley”, was a 2012 graduate of Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School. He enlisted in the Marine Corps on Aug. 20, 2012.

He loved being an uncle and was devoted and loyal, to a fault, to family and friends. He was known by many for his infectious smile and blazing blue eyes. He was proud of his Cuban heritage. He was extremely proud of being a United States Marine. His truck was his prized possession.

Matthew was an accomplished athlete, playing baseball for most of his life and hockey at Greater New Bedford Technical High School. He was an avid sports fan, devoted to the Boston Bruins and Boston Red Sox.

He is survived by his loving parents, Rod and Lisa; the love of his life, his fiancée, Julia Tapper of Fairhaven; his siblings, Adam Rodriguez of Fairhaven; Lisa Doherty and her husband Joseph of Taunton, Lauren Webber and her husband Scott of Brockton, and his nieces, Abigail Doherty and Katelyn and Alison Webber. He is also survived by his future in-laws, Christopher and Diane Tapper of Fairhaven, the entire Tapper family, and many aunts, uncles, cousins, and friends from all over the country.

His funeral service was held Monday at the First Congregational Church of Fairhaven. Burial with full military honors followed in the Massachusetts National Cemetery, Bourne.

In lieu of flowers, remembrances may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project, P.O. Box 758517, Topeka, KS 66675.