Tragedy has once again struck a Bristol, R.I., couple, whose eldest child, a decorated U.S. Army Green Beret killed Friday in combat in Afghanistan, became the second son they’ve lost in the past decade.
Advertisement
“I join all Rhode Islanders in mourning the loss of Andrew McKenna”.
Governor Raimondo was among those who honored the 35-year-old Special Forces soldier who served his country for 17 years.
Reed says he had met McKenna and his family and he found McKenna to be “an extraordinary young man with a big heart and a dedicated, distinguished soldier”. “McKenna for his service and sacrifice”, Said U.S. Sen. “Andrew McKenna, a truly great citizen, soldier, person and patriot”, Sen. In a brief statement, the Defense Department said that McKenna died “of wounds suffered when he was attacked by enemy small arms fire”.
The Bristol native was honored this Fourth of July in his hometown during a parade.
Over the weekend, Rhode Islanders offered outpourings of grief, respect and admiration for McKenna upon learning of his death. His family has not release any information on when or where there services will take place. “It is my hope that the heartfelt gratitude of our entire nation will be a source of comfort to his family”.
Gov. Gina Raimondo has ordered state flags lowered to half staff starting Tuesday, when McKenna will be returned to Rhode Island. “Sgt. McKenna embodied all of the best values of our state”, Cicilline said in a statement.
“I am deeply saddened to learn of the death of First Sgt”.
Advertisement
McKenna was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 7th Special Forces Group, at Eglin AFB.
