Flags Lowered, Services Planned for RI Green Beret Killed in Afghanistan

Flags in Rhode Island are flying at half staff this Victory Day to honor the life of Army Special Forces 1st Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna, a Bristol native who was killed in a suicide bombing attack outside Camp Integrity in Kabul, Afghanistan, on Friday.

Rhode Island Governor Gina Raimondo ordered flags to be lowered on Sunday and said that “McKenna served our nation with distinction

“All Rhode Islanders are grateful for his service, and our prayers are with his family and loved ones. We have lost a patriot and a hero.”

Services for McKenna will be held later this week at St. Mary of the Bay in Warren, beginning with a wake on Sunday and a funeral Mass on Monday.

His body arrived at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware this morning.

McKenna, the son of Peter and Carol McKenna, entered the Army on July 24, 1998 as an infantryman.

He completed the Special Forces Qualification Course in 2002 and began his career as a Green Beret when he was assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group as communications sergeant in May of 2003.

McKenna’s military awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal with V device, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Army Commendation Medal, the Army Achievement Medal, the Army Good Conduct Medal, the National Defense Service Medal, the Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Non-Commissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO medal, the Combat Infantryman Badge, the Master Free Fall Parachutist Badge, the Master Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault Badge and the Special Forces Tab.

Over the weekend, Rhode Islanders offered outpourings of grief, respect and admiration for McKenna upon learning of his death. He was serving his sixth tour of duty overseas.

“‎We are forever indebted to Sgt. McKenna for his service and sacrifice,” Said U.S. Sen. Jack Reed. “America has lost a true patriot and I offer my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and fellow soldiers. Andrew’s life was cut short, but his service will not be forgotten.”

Congressman Jim Langevin said McKenna was ”truly a hero.”

“Andrew McKenna was a brave young man and a dedicated soldier, and my heart is full of grief for the unimaginable loss felt by his family and friends, and by the State of Rhode Island. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire McKenna family; Andrew was truly a hero,” Langevin said. ““It is a tragedy whenever an American soldier dies in service to his or her country, and this devastating loss is particularly acute. Andrew’s sacrifice will never be forgotten, and as we pray for his loved ones, let us also pray for the courageous men and women who continue to serve and selflessly protect this nation.”

Congressman David N. Cicilline said that McKenna “embodied all of the best values of our state” and feels fortunate to have met McKenna last month at the Bristol Fourth of July Parade.

McKenna was home for a brief stay and was recognized for crossing the planet to be at the parade. Sen. Reed presented him with a flag that has flown over the U.S. Capitol.

“My thoughts are with Sgt. McKenna’s parents, his entire family, and all of his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time,” Cicilline said. “It is my hope that the heartfelt gratitude of our entire nation will be a source of comfort to his family.”

McKenna earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Strategic Studies from Norwich University in 2015 and is a graduate of the Warrior Leader Course, Advanced Leader Course and Senior Leader Course.