SSG John Russell, U.S. Army
On May 11, 2009, SSG John Russell gunned down five of his fellow comrades at a mental health clinic at Camp Liberty in Iraq with his M-16. It was revealed that he had an argument with someone at the clinic, left, and came back with his gun. His crimes were determined to be premeditated. He was arrested and subsequently charged with murder and aggravated assault of another soldier that was seriously injured. Days before the killings witnesses noticed that he was distant and having suicidal thoughts. He was also scheduled to leave Iraq in a few days. He was tried for the murders of his fellow comrades and found guilty. He was sentenced to life in prison. But his family feels that the Army should also take responsibility for their actions. The family believes that John was broken and not treated for the injuries he sustained in combat, in the line of duty. SSG Russell was being treated for symptoms associated with Post Traumatic Stress with medications but it is believed that the psychotropics the military psychiatrists prescribed to him may have played a role in his actions. He was described as a kind, caring man up until the day he committed the unforeseen murders against his fellow soldiers.
Honoring the Victims:
- Major Matthew Houseal, 54, U.S. Army
- Commander Keith Springle, 52, U.S. Navy
- Sergeant Christian Bueno-Galdos, 25, U.S. Army
- Specialist Jacob Barton, 20, U.S. Army
- Private First Class Michael Yates, 19, U.S. Army
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MILITARY JUSTICE FOR ALL 