Decorated Chicopee Soldier Dies

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By Matthew Campbell

Story Published: Jun 17, 2009 at 11:24 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jun 17, 2009 at 11:24 PM EDT

52 year old Sergeant First Class, Kevin Dupont has died from his burns after an improvised explosive device detonated while on tour in Afghanistan.

The American flag waves at half-staff at the Dupont home. Once a symbol of military pride, now, a symbol of military mourning.

Wednesday, their son and brother, Kevin Dupont, the decorated war veteran, died from injuries of an improvised explosive blast. The 52 year old Sergeant First Class, was hit with an IED in March, sustaining burns to 65 percent of his body. He spent his last months in a coma, being treated in San Antonio.

Kevin died Wednesday morning and was decorated with one last medal. A bronze star.

"Kevin was a military man from the get-go there was no question," his brother Mark says.

8 years in the Marines, 20 in the National Guard, a lifetime in the military ends in the most tragic way. The Duponts say Kevin's mission in Afghanistan was meant to be his last.

"He wanted to end his career on the highest note possible and that was in action," Dupont says.

It was a move his family questioned.

"We didn't want him to go. Yeah. But, ultimately, we understood," Mark says.

They understood the dangers involved. Kevin was often on the front lines. The experienced veteran leading his troops. Now, leaving them and his family behind.

"I have a quiet anger. I'm angry with my brother for going, but I understand and respect and understand why he had to do it," Mark says.

A funeral date is still being decided. The location will be at Kevin's former alma mater, Holy Name School in Chicopee.

Mark and his father will go to San Antonio to bring their brother and son home.

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mary e said on Friday, Jun 26 at 2:10 PM

we lost 3 celebrities this week and although I have deep sympathy for their families. Please know that you, Sgt Dupont are the only hero. To your family please received my thanks and sympathy.

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