Posted on 02/28/2006 4:05:42 AM PST by beaversmom
(CBS4) AURORA, Colo. The family of a Russian immigrant told CBS4 on Monday they were devastated but proud after learning that their only son died in combat in Iraq.
Dimitri Muscat, 21, was in his second tour in Iraq when he was killed. He was only 12 when he arrived in the United States, but his family said he quickly felt at home and wanted to defend the country he loved.
Muscat joined the army when he was only 17 and he was not yet a U.S. citizen when he died.
"He truly loved this place; he just wanted to do his best and he knew he would fit (in)," said Hugh Muscat, Dimitri's step-father.
The family moved from Russia 9 years ago and settled into a home in Aurora.
"We still missed our home, but he was totally committed to this country," said Ekatfrina Muscat, his sister. "This is the only place he wanted to be."
Dimitri was the gunner on his unit's tank when he died.
"He was brave," Ksenia Muscat, his mother said. "He said 'I'm trained, I know what I'm doing.'"
In line with Russian tradition, the family covered the mirrors in their home after learning Dimitri had died and bread was placed next to Dimitri's picture.
"A slice of bread is on the top of the glass so he won't be hungry," Ksenia said.
The family said the U.S. Army has provided very few details about Dimitri's death, They are hoping to get more information soon.
"His unit is losing a lot of people; he is in a very tough place," his step-father said.
"War is not good; people die and that's not good," his mother said.
Dimitri's family said they hope he will be granted citizenship now. They said they have been assured that Dimitri will be buried with full military honors.
"They said they have been assured that Dimitri will be buried with full military honors."
As well the tears and respect of a grateful nation.
About a year or so ago, there was a media article about a young Russian immigrant who became a tanker in the US Army. Could this be him?
Very sad.
Prayers for his AMERICAN family.
+memory eternal
Godspeed to Fiddler's Green!
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