Maine has lost another soldier with ties to the state.

Army Spc. Joseph Alan Lucas, 23, was killed Thursday while serving with the 3rd Infantry Division in Balad, Iraq. Lucas, who grew up in Monson, leaves behind a wife and 15-month-old son.

Details of Lucas’ death were not available Friday. His death was confirmed by Sen. Olympia Snowe and Gov. John Baldacci.

Lucas joins an honor roll of Maine soldiers who have given their lives in service to their country. The others on that list are: Maj. Jay Thomas Aubin of Waterville; Spec. Daniel Francis Cunningham Jr. of Lewiston; Spec. Jeremiah J. Holmes of North Berwick; Spec. Christopher D. Gelineau of Portland; Sgt. Lawrence A. Roukey of Westbrook; Spec. Beau Beaulieu of Lisbon; Sgt. Lynn Robert Poulin Sr. of Freedom; Spec. Thomas John Dostie of Somerville; and Sgt. 1st Class Michael D. Jones of Unity.

Words on a printed page do no justice to this list. Our thoughts are with their families as Christmas approaches, and our sincere hope is that no more names will be added.