Posted by Joan Maas on June 3, 2002:

I was Andy's senior English teacher at Stuttgart American High School in Germany. Andy was an excellent student - bright, responsible, cooperative, positive, well-organized, energetic. It was so easy to write letters of recommendation for him because he was such a winner. I remember how determined he was about West Point. His plan was to join the Rangers and excel to the point that West Point couldn't possible refuse him. Sure enough! One day, a year or so after his HS graduation, he was TDY in the Stuttgart area and visited school to tell us that his dream was being realized. He was headed for West Point. Occasionally, during the following years, I received an update from Andy. In his West Point graduation notice, he included a note thanking me for help and support while he was in HS. That was Andy! In his proudest moment, he was reaching back to say thank you to a former HS teacher. Last night when I heard the tragic news, I dug out the anthology of writing done by his class and reread Andy's essays. Both pieces show a young man reflecting deeply on people, places, decisions, and influences in his life - past, present, future. Both show a young man about to spread his wings, ready for challenges, eager to make a difference in the world. I know that is exactly what he did. Nicole, you and your children, and Andy's parents are in my thoughts and prayers as you struggle with your deep loss. May Andy REST IN PEACE! Sincerely, Joan Maas Andy's Senior English Teacher, 1984-85 Stuttgart HS, Germany

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