Andrew Patten

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Byron, IL

Branch of Service: U.S. Marine Corps

Rank: Lance Corporal

Lance Corporal Andrew Patten joined the Marine Corps at age 18, right after high school. He attended boot camp in San Diego, California graduating in October 2004. From there he went to 29 Palms. His MOS was infantry rifleman. Patten deployed to Iraq in July 2005. He made the ultimate sacrifice while serving in Fallujah, Iraq.

Andy was musically talented and played several instruments and had a nice singing voice. He always had a smile on his face and would do anything to help a friend. Andy loved anything adventurous: snow camping, riding four-wheelers, anything to do with the outdoors. He was an all-around good guy.

Andy had a deep and abiding faith in God and was not afraid to make that known. “We have the peace and assurance that Andy is now in his heavenly home. Now he serves God alone,” remembers his mother, Gayle Naschansky.

Age: 19

Date of Death: December 01, 2005