[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 41 (Thursday, March 17, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E518]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




             IN HONOR OF PRIVATE FIRST CLASS ANDREW HARPER

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. DAVID B. McKINLEY

                            of west virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, March 17, 2011

  Mr. McKINLEY. Mr. Speaker, this past week, all of West Virginia 
experienced a tremendous loss. 19-year-old Private First Class Andrew 
Harper died from injuries he sustained while serving our country in 
Afghanistan. It deeply saddens me to see anyone hurt while serving our 
country, let alone lose their life such as Private First Class Harper 
did. Andrew was a dedicated hero who defended our country with the 
utmost dignity and I am proud to call him a West Virginian.
  Andrew, a graduate from University High School, was stationed in 
Kandahar province when he sustained his fatal injuries during a non-
combat incident. This brave young man enrolled in the Army to protect 
our freedom and our country's fundamental beliefs. The true heroes of 
our time will be these brave men and women who have stood up for 
America and defended our freedom.
  This young man who was from Maidsville, West Virginia served our 
country with pride and dignity. He represented our community in that 
same manner. The admiration our community felt for this young man and 
his service are immense. Andrew's passing has left so many shocked and 
distraught. This brave young man's life was so very promising. There is 
no question that Andrew left a great legacy and his memory should be 
honored.
  Andrew serves as a great example of the American spirit. My thoughts 
and prayers are with Andrew's mother, Deanna Wells of Middleburg, 
Florida, his father, Steven Harper of Maidsville, West Virginia, his 
extended family, friends, and his entire unit, the 3rd Squadron, 2nd 
Stryker Cavalry Regiment as they continue to protect our freedom in 
Afghanistan.

                          ____________________