Statement from SPC Andrew Wade's Family

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SPC Andrew Wade

ANTIOCH, IL (03/11/2011)(readMedia)-- Spc. Andrew Wade, 22 of Antioch, died March 9 in Afghanistan as a result of a non-combat related incident. The incident is still under investigation. Andrew was an active duty Soldier assigned to the 1st Battalion, 87th Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division at Fort Drum, N.Y.

Funeral arrangements have not been made at this time.

During this time, Andrew's family politely wishes not to be interviewed. However, they have released the following statement:

Nothing compares to what our family is experiencing at this time, with the loss of Andrew. He was devoted to his friends, family and above all, his country. Andrew joined the Army about a year after he graduated from high school and he was proud of his service in the Army and his commitment to his fellow brothers and sisters in uniform. That service and commitment made us extremely proud of the man Andrew became. He truly is our hero and we will always cherish each moment we have had with him in the last 22 years. Although we appreciate everyone's prayers and support, there have been other Soldiers killed or injured while in combat, and we ask for you to think of them and support their families, along with Andrew, at this time. We thank you for your support during this difficult time and ask the media to respect our wishes to not be interviewed.