FROM STAFF AND WIRE REPORTS
The soldier charged in the deaths of fellow troops in Baghdad is on his third tour of duty in Iraq, according to his service record.
Excerpts of the record, obtained by The Associated Press, show that Army Sgt. John M. Russell previously did two one-year tours of duty there, one starting in April 2003 and another beginning November 2005.
Russell listed his hometown as Sherman when he enlisted.
Russell is charged in the deaths of five troops following a shooting in a stress clinic Monday in Baghdad.
The stress of repeat and extended tours is considered a main contributor to mental health problems among troops serving in Iraq and Afghanistan.
Russell is the son of Wilburn and Beth Russell, who live near Luella, southeast of Sherman. He has three sisters still living in this area, as well as an ex-wife. His son is a graduate of Denison schools.
Russell entered the Army National Guard in 1988 and served in the Guard until 1994, Russell became an active duty soldier in 1994, the record shows.
The military record also states that Russell served in Serbia through the last half of 1996 and Bosnia and Herzegovina in the last half of 1998.
Russell received several medals and commendations, which the official described as typical for Russell's rank and time in the military. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because he wasn't authorized to speak on the record.