Army Pfc. Andrew H. Nelson

Remember Our Heroes

Army Pfc. Andrew H. Nelson, 19, of Saint Johns, Mich.

Pfc. Nelson was assigned to the 9th Engineer Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, Schweinfurt, Germany; died Dec. 26 of wounds sustained Dec. 25 when an improvised explosive device detonated near his vehicle during combat operations in Baghdad. Also killed were: Sgt. John T. Bubeck and Spc. Aaron L. Preston.

Community Honors Local Fallen Soldier

An outpouring of support in Clinton County as a community bands together honoring one of its own. Visitation was held for 19-year-old Andrew Nelson of St. Johns, an Army Private First Class killed in Iraq.

His sacrifice is being felt all across the tight-knit community. It is a moment of tribute for private Andrew Nelson, the first Saint John's soldier killed in combat since Vietnam.

Martha Leavitt, family friend of PFC Andrew Nelson: "Knowing that he sacrificed himself for our freedom is such a statement, he's such a hero."
All across Saint Johns there are signs of tribute, a makeshift memorial downtown, a black ribbon as the city pays its respects, honoring the life of Andrew Nelson, forever marking his name in their history.

Erick Richards, St. Johns VFW Commander: "He wanted to go so that others could come home. He knew the responsibilities. He knew the dangers and he did his job."

To those who knew him best, the 19 year old was a man of unlimited potential, , but in pictures, you can see Private Nelson found his calling very early in life.

Cody Stinnett, best friend of PFC Andrew Nelson: "Ever since the day I knew him, since the day anyone knew him, all he ever wanted to do was go into the Army, and that's what he did."

Friends and family began visitation at the Keck-Coleman Funeral Home saying goodbye to a young man who made his community proud, a Saint Johns soldier finally home. Nelson's survived by his parents, two sisters and his high-school sweetheart who he married last year. Visitation continues from 2-4 and 6-8pm. A funeral service and a full-military burial are planned for Saturday morning.


Army Pfc. Andrew H. Nelson was killed in action on 12/25/06.