Wyatt Gillette of California passed away a hero on July 31st.
Just a day before, the 8-year-old was made an honorary Marine at Camp Pendleton outside San Diego for his battle against Aicardi-Goutieres Syndrome Type 1, a disease that causes kidney failure, seizures and ultimately, death.
According to People, Wyatt’s father, Jeremiah is a drill instructor with the Marines.
Jeremiah, 29, had asked his fellow Marines to pray for Wyatt when he and the boy’s mother, Felicia made the decision to move Wyatt into hospice care.
Marine Anthony North heard of Wyatt’s struggle, and created a Change.org petition to make the boy an honorary marine.
"In order for Wyatt to be awarded with this title, the Commandant of the Marine Corps must approve it," North wrote.
"I truly feel that Wyatt has faced more hardship than any Marine has gone through, and for that should be given the title. I have seen more Marines come together because of him, and feel he has truly earned the right to be among the best fighting force in the world.
"I am asking for people to sign this petition, to help bring attention to the Commandant, in the hopes he is kind enough to approve Wyatt with this award."
Over 4,000 people signed the petition, and the request was granted.
"I just started crying," Felishia said when she found out about the gesture, according to People.
"So many people and strangers took an interest."
Wyatt was honored with a ceremony, and received his Eagle, Globe and Anchor, which represents that one is officially a Marine.
Jeremiah told ABC 7 that his son is "the toughest kid" he’s ever met.
When Wyatt passed away the following day, Jeremiah conveyed his family’s appreciation for the goodwill and support.
"Thank you all so much for letting Wyatt into your hearts, and allowing him to make you smile, it was his favorite thing to do," he wrote.