Flags across Missouri are being flown at half-staff Saturday to honor a fallen Army officer.
Rusten Radford Smith, 32, of St. James was one of two Missouri soldiers killed in a helicopter crash last month in Kentucky. Also killed was 36-year-old Zachary Esparza of Jackson, who will be honored at a later date. Smith was an instructor pilot for the 101st Airborne Division.
"Rusten's life was cut tragically short, but he gave it in patriotic service to our nation, which he so loved, and we are forever grateful for that service," said Missouri Governor Mike Parson. "Rusten was a loving husband, proud father, and devoted friend, and our hearts go out to all who knew and loved him throughout his life."
Smith and Esparza were among nine people who died March 29 when two UH-60 Blackhawk medical evacuation helicopters collided mid-air near Fort Campbell, Ky., during a nighttime training mission.
