Ming Sun remembered at school memorial

Ming Sun was born in China, but spent most of his life here in the desert. He graduated from Cathedral City High School in 2004. Two years later, he joined the Army, even though he was not a US citizen.

Grief-stricken family and friends say the 20-year-old died doing what he loved -- serving this country.

In a brief, but emotional ceremony, Private First Class Ming Sun was honored for his sacrifice.

Sun's family looked on as Cathedral City High School's junior ROTC unit and the Patriot Guard Riders took part in the patriotic tribute.

On January 9th, Private Sun was killed by small arms fire in Anbar Province. According to the Army, Sun is the first non-US citizen from China to be killed in the Iraq war.

Friends say serving in Iraq is exactly what Sun wanted to be doing.

"He loved it," said Sun's friend, Anthony Brown. "He called me. He was excited. He loved the adrenaline. Brave kid"

Former classmates say they just wanted Sun to come back safe and now, they can't believe he's gone.

"It's like we're brothers . . . We did lose a brother. There's no way around it."

"A hero. My idol. Every day, I think about him."

As flags fly half-staff at CCHS, there's talk of creating a permanent memorial for Ming Sun. There's also a scholarship fund being set up for his little sister.

Sun's parents say their very proud of their son and grateful for the community's support and now, they just hope the war will end soon.

"Please let Iraqi soldiers and police defend their country," said Sun's father, David. "Bring our soldiers back home as soon as possible. Don't damage happy families anymore."

The family tells us Ming Sun's body will be flown back to Palm Springs International this Saturday.

Funeral services in Cathedral City and burial services at Riverside National Cemetery are being planned, as more family members come in from Beijing.

From KESQ 3

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