His family says he played defensive end in high school football, and he always wanted to join the military.
Mihalo was due to be discharged in October, and he had planned to pursue a career as a police officer.
"Tony was a true patriot. I think we can all be proud and feel good that he served us and served the country as well as he did," Guy Antonides said.
Mihalo earned many medals, including two combat action ribbons, and a unit certificate of commendation.
