ESCONDIDO, Calif. -- An Escondido man is keeping a close eye on ABC News co-anchor Bob Woodruff's recovery, 10News reported.

The two share a friendship generated by tragedy during the early stages of war.

Jesus Suarez Del Solar was one of the first casualties of the war almost three years ago.

Woodruff was there embedded with his unit when the young Marine died.

Later in November of 2003, Woodruff created a special bond with the Marine's father, who visits his son's grave at least twice a week.

Jesus, who was a Marine sniper, died during the early stages of the war.

Before dying, he and Woodruff became friends out in the battlefield.

"As an embedded reporter with his unit, I had gotten to know Jesus Suarez on the eve of the invasion," said Woodruff.

Eight months later, Woodruff became friends with the Marine's father, Fernando Suarez Del Solar, who was on a peace mission to Iraq.

Woodruff led Fernando to the spot where Jesus was killed. The Escondido man wanted to place a crucifix in the sand to honor his son.

Fernando says Woodruff began crying as they talked about how Jesus had died.

"It was (a) very emotional moment together. One moment he says 'No more cameras come over with me.' (He) said, 'I'm sorry' and cried some more," said Fernando.

From that moment on, they became friends.

Fernando told 10News he is saddened over what happened to Woodruff, who was injured while riding on a troop carrier when it was hit by a roadside bomb.

"My opinion is Bob is another victim of this war," said Fernando.

Fernando says Woodruff will want to go back to Iraq the minute he recovers.

Woodruff has also warned the Escondido man not to go to Iraq on peace missions anytime soon because it's too dangerous right now.