The uncle of a fallen Iowa soldier called Army Sergeant James Musack “an All-American Iowa boy.” Musack, who was 23, grew up in Riverside and his funeral was held at Highland High School where he graduated in 2002. He was laid to rest in Riverside’s cemetery yesterday. The Defense Department says Musack died November 21st in a “non-combat related incident” and his death is being investigated.
Long-time family friend Mark Gross attended yesterday’s funeral and burial. “I have three daughters and he is totally like a son to me and I know he is up in heaven looking down on us and giving us strength to get through this,” Gross said. Musack was on his second tour of duty in Iraq.