The years following were market by increased Soviet repression and brutality. In 1976. the oldest son. Sasha. was imprisoned. Finally. in June of 1978. the Vashchenko family received the necessary invitation to emigrate to the United States. They went to three Soviet visa offices but were refused the necessary papers. In order to report this newest injustice and to get advice. they again turned to the American Embassy. They were accompanied by Maria and Timofei Chmykhalov. who had also been subjected to repression for many years. They never intended to stage a sitin or to remain at the Embassy. But when they arrived at the Embassy gates carrying the necessary passes. the Soviet guards tried to stop them from entering.
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emigrate visa