Friends and family are mourning the loss of Technical Sgt. Joseph Lemm, 45, who was one of six Americans killed in a suicide bombing Monday in Afghanistan.

Lemm, of West Harrison, was also an NYPD detective who worked in the 50th Precinct in the Bronx, and was a 15-year veteran of the force. He was part of the Air National Guard out of Stewart Air Base in Newburgh. He served two tours in Afghanistan and one in Iraq.

Flags in West Harrison are at half-staff as people mourn the loss of Lemm. Robby Preston, of West Harrison, says Lemm was a great guy who would literally take the shirt off his back for someone. Preston says Lemm's death is a big loss to the community.

Also killed in the attack was Staff Sgt. Louis Bonacasa, from the Long Island hamlet of Coram. He was part of the Air National Guard out of Stewart Air Base and was roommates with Lemm in Afghanistan.

Orange County Executive Steven Neuhaus issued a statement saying, "These men are true heroes and will be deeply missed. This tragedy serves as another reminder that our brave servicemen and servicewomen continue to make sacrifices for our great country overseas. As county executive, I will continue to support our troops here at home and abroad who remain in harm's way."

Lemm leaves behind a wife and two children.

The Taliban has taken responsibility for the suicide bombing attack.