May 14, 2009 9:19 am US/Eastern
Soldier Killed In Iraq On His Way Home To Paterson
Family Of Sgt. Christian Bueno-Galdos, 25, Mourns To CBS 2 HD
TRENTON (CBS) ―
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The Defense Department says Sgt. Christian Bueno-Galdos was 25 and from Paterson. He was assigned to a unit based in Germany.
United States Army
The body of a soldier from Paterson, New Jersey is on its way home to his family Thursday morning. Sergeant Christian Bueno-Galdos was among five soldiers shot to death by a fellow American at a mental health clinic in Iraq.
The bodies of the five servicemen arrived Wednesday night at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware to prayers and somber, military transfer.
Sgt. John M. Russel is accused of opening fire at a military counseling clininc in Baghdad, killing Navy Commander Charles Springle and four of Russel's comrades, including Sgt Bueno-Galdos.
Bueno-Galdos' brother, Carlos Eduardo Bueno-Galdos, told CBS 2 the young sergeant loved serving his country.
"He was a great brother, great son, a great soldier. I'm really proud," said Carlos Eduardo.
Bueno-Galdos was married. His family says he always had a smile on his face and is remembered for his concern for others, something that a steady stream of visitors who came to pay respects to his family can attest to.
"He always said, 'Take care of my mom, take care of my dad, take care of my brothers.' He always said that. He always wanted a strong family," his brother said. "I just have to accept it. I know my brother is watching us and he doesn't want us to be angry."
The youngest of four, Bueno-Galdos was born in Peru, but grew up in Paterson, attending the County Vocational School. In the military, he received numerous awards. Family members say they don't know why he was in the clinic and try not to be angry at the soldier who stands accused.
The family hopes to pull through the tragedy through the love of faith and family.
"Being together, the whole family. Strong, like he always wanted," said Carlos Eduardo. "We love my brother. We will always love him."
Sgt. John M. Russell was taken into custody outside the mental health clinic at Camp Livberty following Monday's shooting. He's charged with five counts of murder and one of aggravated assault.
(© 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Associated Press contributed to this report.)
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