NEW YORK -- Members of the Russian-American community in New York City gathered in Brooklyn yesterday to honor Russian-American service members.
The Be Proud Foundation, in conjunction with the American War Veterans of Russian Decent Committee (RAS), hosted the event at Brooklyn Borough Hall yesterday evening. They honored more than a dozen soldiers and Marines from Operation Iraqi Freedom.
"This is a nice event for Russians about Russian Americans who are making a significant difference in the world today," said 27-year-old Marine Sgt. Alex Presman, from 6th Communication Battalion in Brooklyn. Originally from Belarus, Presman lost his foot when he stepped on a land mine. He helped the organization track down other Russian-speaking service members.
"It's nice to get recognized," Presman said. He wants to ensure the Russian-American community understands the sacrifices made by Marines and soldiers serving in the Middle East.
"They are the ones making sure this country continues to stand for everything that has made it great."