AUGUSTA — Pvt. Buddy McLain, a 24-year-old soldier from Mexico, Maine was killed by enemy fire Monday in Afghanistan.

McLain , who attended Mountain Valley High School in Rumford, served as a cavalry scout with the U.S. Army’s 2nd Squadron, 61st Cavalry, 4th Brigade Combat Team, 101st Airborne Division, Gov. John Baldacci said Tuesday morning in a prepared statement.

“Words fall short of describing the loss of a young soldier,” Baldacci said. “Private McLain died serving his country. He has earned the lasting gratitude of his State and nation. We will honor him for the hero that he is. During this tragic time, we all should keep his family and friends in our prayers.”

David Farmer, a Baldacci aide, says McLain’s wife and son live in Peru, Maine. His parents live in Mexico, Maine.

Two other Mainers died in Afghanistan this month, according to the Associated Press.

Another soldier from the 101st, 20-year-old Spc. Andrew Hutchins of New Portland, died on Nov. 8 in Khost Province. Marine 1st Lt. James R. Zimmerman, whose parents live in Smyrna Mills, was killed Nov. 2 in Helmand province.