HARMONY — Becca LaButis was honored that her late step-brother's alma mater, Seneca Valley High School, remembered him as a military hero Friday before the school's football game against Pine Richland.

Army Sgt. 1st Class Ryan Gloyer, of Zelienople, graduated from Seneca Valley High School in 2000, and died in a battle in Kunduz,

Afghanistan in November 2016.

“He was an all-around great individual,” LaButis said. “He had an outstanding, great personality. He was smart, he was driven, he was determined to be the best.”

As part of the school's 18th annual Veteran recognition night, LaButis put decals of the American flag on the Seneca Valley captains' helmets before the game.

The rest of the team had their decals put on beforehand. The decals will remain on their helmets for the remainder of the season.

Fifty U.S. military veterans also were honored before the game for their service.

“It's just gratifying that the school initiates the veterans (for this event),” said U.S. Navy and Vietnam War veteran John McKinney, who is from Evans City.

Jessica Pollaci led a group of students last spring in learning more about Gloyer, and they brought the idea to honor him to the school district.

District superintendent Dr. Tracy Vitale said that Pollaci has been heavily involved in honoring Gloyer as a senior this year.

That it was students who wanted to honor him was special for LaButis.

“I think it really means the most that it's coming from the students,” LaButis said.

Linda Andreassi, Seneca Valley's communications director, was grateful for the opportunity to honor Gloyer.

“Ryan gave his life for our freedom,” she said. “It is the ultimate sacrifice.”

Gloyer was honored by the military with numerous combat medals, including the Purple Heart and the Bronze Star.