Nov 02 2007
Andy Dancaster, 1976-2007
At 1500 on 1 November 2007, I received word that one of my RLTs had been hit by an IED. The devastating results were 1 KIA and 2 WIA. The lead vehicle apparently drove over a pressure detonated IED buried in the road. The blast blew through the bottom of the vehicle directly under the front passenger seat. That is where Andy was sitting. He was the Team Leader for this RLT; a man that I and everyone else that knew him greatly admired. His team had just completed reconnaissance of some of my project sites and was on its way back to the FOB. They were about 10 kilometers south of Mosul when they hit the IED. Smudge, the Assistant Team Leader, took charge immediately, secured the area, and called in the QRF from the supporting US Army unit. After the blast, there was no other attack. Apparently the IED had been left to indiscriminately kill whomever happened by. Andy and the 2 WIAs were evacuated by helicopter to the Combat Support Hospital on FOB Diamondback; their vehicle was completely destroyed by the IED.
At 0300 this morning, I participated in a Ramp Ceremony for Andy along with all of the other security detachment personnel and the leadership from MAO (MAJ Rick Biddle and MSG Curt Kaseman). The attendees formed two lines coming out from the ramp at the back of the waiting C130 Hercules aircraft. At the front of the line, I waited along with a Chaplain and Billy, Andy’s supervisor. When the ambulance pulled up, 4 personnel from the security detachment served as pallbearers and removed Andy’s casket. Those assembled saluted while we led the pallbearers to the ramp of the C130. At the foot of the ramp, the Chaplain said some words. I was so numb at the time that I can’t remember what he said. Then a member of Andy’s team said a few words as well. That was the end of our short ceremony.
Later this afternoon, I sat at my computer to put together a few thoughts for a condolence letter. Andy is survived by his Mother and Father who live in Chesire, UK. As I finished putting my thoughts in an email to send to my boss, the numbness started to wear off. I walked back to my trailer and called Mugs to ask for prayer. I spent some time crying for Andy. Mugs’ words comforted me and allowed me to not be overcome by grief.
This evening at 1830, I conducted a memorial service for Andy. Everyone from MAO attended along with all of Andy’s colleagues from the personal security detachment teams. I started off by reading Ecclesiastes 9:10-12, which says:
Whatever your hand finds to do, do it with your might; for there is no work or device or knowledge or wisdom in the grave where you are going.
I returned and saw under the sun that the race is not to the swift, nor the battle to the strong, nor bread to the wise, nor riches to men of understanding, nor favor to men of skill; but time and chance happen to them all.
For man also does not know his time; like fish taken in a cruel net, like birds caught in a snare, so the sons of men are snared in an evil time, when it falls suddenly upon them.
A few people shared thoughts about Andy, then we honored him with a minute of silence. Margaret, the senior USACE engineer in Mosul, closed the service with a prayer.
Andy believed in what we are doing. He cared for the Iraqis and felt strongly about developing personal relationships with the locals. On every project visit he made, Andy would grab his interpreter and talk to the local residents. He knew that these relationships are the key to success. I believe in Andy’s vision. In Ecclesiastes 9, the Preacher goes on to say in verse 18:
Wisdom is better than weapons of war; but one sinner destroys much good.
Rest in Peace, Andy Dancaster.
Dale, i’m so glad you can console his family in some form.
i’m praying for you.
love you,
Dale & Margaret,
Words alone cannot ease the grief that occurs with the loss of a friend, my thoughts and prayers are with you and the family, colleagues and friends of Andy, may he rest in peace.
I continue to pray for you and your family and hope that the verse below brings you in some small measure the same comfort that your prays and support gave me earlier in the year.
2 Corinthians 1:3-7
Praise be to the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of compassion and the God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God. For just as the sufferings of Christ flow over into our lives, so also through Christ our comfort overflows. If we are distressed, it is for your comfort and salvation; if we are comforted, it is for your comfort, which produces in you patient endurance of the same sufferings we suffer. And our hope for you is firm, because we know that just as you share in our sufferings, so also you share in our comfort.
Love you guys,
Julie
Julie,
Thanks! Mugs just shared that same scripture with me. Your prayers and words mean a lot to me.
Dale
Sorry mate,
Love, thoughts & prayers
Mikey
I can’t think of anyone better to conduct a memorial service, Dale.
Love and prayers to Andy’s family, as they are bound to visit here, (eventually)
I joined the Royal Marines at the same time as Andy; I have many fond memories and am greatly saddened by his death. He was a natural high flyer and an exceptional Marine.
I’d like to wish all my love and support his family. If possible I would like to forward some pictures of Andy that were taken during training which I’m sure his family would like to have.
God bless Andy
Thank you for your blog…knowing a little more about what happened brings some comfort to those who hold Drew (Andy) in their hearts.
Words cannot begin to describe a man who touched so many lives. To describe what he meant to people would not do him justice nor would it take away the emptiness that now resides. He was a source of wisdom and the voice of reason to all who knew him. You might not always hear what you wanted to hear but he would always tell you what you needed to hear. He was a guardian angel to many, never expecting or accepting anything in return.
My thoughts and prayers are with his family and everyone else who knew him.
May God keep you safe now.
My thoughts and prayers are with Andys Family. Andy was somebody who everyone was proud to know.
Rest In Peace Andy Dancaster.
Alan Jones
K Company 42 Commando Royal Marines.
I have just found this site and would like to express my thanks to all who cared for and admired Andy. I am his brother-in-law in all but paper. Belinda (Andy’s sister) and I have a two and a half year old daughter (Alysha) who will miss her uncle Drew immensely.
I found this quotation the other day whilst writing about Andy for the local press.
I would certainly like to use this quotation to describe all of you out there trying to make a difference in our world, especially but not limited to all those that served and worked along side Andy and shared his vision.
“The bravest are surely those who have the clearest vision of what is before them, glory and danger alike, and yet notwithstanding, go out and meet it”.
Thanks to you all.
Steve, Belinda and Alysha
we are both devasted ! and will for the rest of lives, however long it may be remember andy. he was the epitome of a perfect nephew. may he rest in peace…. thank you all (faces we will probably
never see ) for your care and devotion you gave to our andy. may god go with you all. our thoughts are with you dick and josie , and of course bindy, we love you all …
I will always miss my cousin Andrew. He was always in my thoughts, wondering where and what he might be doing in his work. I was so proud of him.
I have some wonderful memories of us playing together as kids round nanny Bunjys! These will stay with me forever.
May you rest in peace, love to Uncle Dicky, Aunt Josie, Cousin Belinda, Steve and Alysha x
I didn’t know Andy but I work with his cousin and my thoughts are with her and other members of his family at this very tragic time. What a waste of young life. May he rest in peace.
Father
we ask for your comfort for this family and for
protection over our soldiers.
Bless the many that love and knew Andy
and we ask you Jesus to give wisdom
and direction in our lives
help us to live each day for you alone
in Jesus name, Amen
Danky was my best friend since we were 13 we even shared the same birth date, he was due to be my best man at my wedding to Nicola next September. Every time i get sad and upset i always remember the high jinx’s we have got upto whilst growing up(and belive me there was alot!!). I will remember what such a positive person he was and how much he had an impact on peoples lives. I have spoken to alot of his other close friends through this unhappy period and everyone is in agreement that it was a great honour to have made his aquaintance and to be touch by someone so remarkably special. He has helped me through some very dark days of my life and i was glad to repay him by being there for him as he need me. He will be missed so very very much by all whom had the pleasure of knowing him.
He would not like us to be sad or to say such things as “what if” or “if only”. He was doing something inwhich he loved and belived in. And he new the consequences and that he was a true professional and did his job with great dedication and enthusiasm.
When ever you feel sad please remember him like me, with his cheeky smile and that he was great at giving such sound positive advice but was totally crap at taking any himself(you all know what i mean).
Mine and Nicola’s love goes to anyone who knew him and will miss him greatly especially to his family, Mum & Dad whom have been more like parents to my self than my own. Also to Belinda and family. You know where i am if you ever need anything at all.
If Andrew could of chosen any parents in the world he would have chosen Josie and Richard , they ARE the Best Parents any one could have.
He also was very choosey of his friends so you no who you are and know that you were very highly reguarded as good people.
Thank you to the person that set this up and thanks for reasuring us all that all that could of been done for Drew was. And no cover up had taken place as we know these things are regularly done.
He was my Best Man and Always will be
I love now and always will you were one of the good guys! xxxxxxxxxxxxx
(It’s ur turn to get the wets in next time we meet!)
Andrew was more like a son to Cliff and I and a brother to Paul and Christian. We have known Richard and Josie for over 23 years now and Andrew and Belinda have grown up as an extension of our family. To loose Andrew is like loosing our own son. We have fond memories of him on our numerous trips to Scotland, where Andrew would wander off in his combat clothes (his floppy combat hat, always on his head was a must) with his various fishing rods in hand, to catch another BIG FISH, which he usually did. Andrew was always furious when Belinda would catch that bigger fish, after he had sat so long, dangling his rod in the water.
He never took any notice of what anyone said – he always did his own thing, whether right or wrong.
Those are the memories that I will always hold dear of Andrew.
Also, when our son Christian had a brain bleed and was later released from hospital, Andrew was his carer for a short while, whilst waiting to hear from the Agency to go to Iraq. He made Christian do excersises like he was training him for the Royal Marines. He always insisted that he did his stretching, before and after excercises. We always laughed about the way he made him work out and stretch (which Christian still does to this day). Oh sweet memories which we will never forget.
Andrew enjoyed life to the full and life enjoyed Andrew.
He leaves a gaping hole, in all our lives, but non so large, as that he will leave in Richard’s, Josie’s, Belinda’s, Steve’s & little Alysha’s hearts. He will be sadly missed by all his friends and colleagues.
Goodnight Andrew, till we meet again in another place and time………………..it was a pleasure knowing you.
Cliff, Pauline, Paul and Christian xxx
Andrew, You were taken much too soon but your achievements in your short life were monumental. From a young age you new what you wanted to be and do when you grew up. “You died doing what you loved doing”. God bless and may you now have eternal peace. Our thoughts also remain with Dicky, Josie, Belinda and family.
Having known Drew for over ten years, he was a good friend and never missed calling into see me at work, just to say I’m home safe and sound!
I may have lost a wonderful friend here, but there is one extra angel in heaven!
‘Farewell not goodbye until we meet again’
Mo x
Thank you Dale for setting up the blog for Drew – he so well deserves all the many tributes – always knew he was special !
Thanks Drew for being a good caring and thoughtful friend and above
all a true gentleman – will miss your cheery smile at our door
Eric and Annette
Reading these beautiful messages about Andy has brought a huge tear to my eye and a big smile to my lips. Andy was a wonderful cousin. He was a fantastic son and loving brother who made his whole family very proud.
If I could choose a man to be my daughter’s future husband, he would be just like Andy. If he only had half of his qualities he would be a good match.
I have very fond memories of our youth, especially Andy’s ability to please. He had been staying with us helping out in the ‘garage’ (my mum and dad’s Petrol Station) and my mum had mentioned how hard it was keeping the carpet clean with our black dog lying about. When mum and I returned from a shopping trip a few hours later, Andy had cleaned the whole of the living room carpet (which was a big room) using just a small hand held clothes brush !!
Andy may you rest in peace and have lots of fun on the other side.
Our love to Uncle Dicky, Aunty Josie, Bindy Steve, Alysha and all those close to his heart xx
Andrew “My Boy” We will miss you lots, but have some lovely memories, one when you were little, you used to love going to Nanny Bunjy who lived at the seaside.
The most recent memory was on one of your visits home, and we met you at the airport. Seeing your little cheeky face was great. So I will keep that special memory close to my heart when I am down.
You will be sadly missed,
Love,
Libby and Dave
XX
Danky and i have been friends for about 10 years since he worked with me at the salamanca. i remember his dedication to physical training when he was waiting to get into the marines, we used to go out in congleton on a weekend and arrange to meet later to head back to smallwood. me wobbling along on a push bike and andy running along side! his achievements since then have never surprised me but always made me proud to be his friend. i think there was nothing that he would have been unable to do once he’d made his mind up to do it. i was greatly saddened to hear of his death and my thoughts go out to his family, and to his best friend, wayne.
R.I.P DANKY
I worked, lived and shared a lift up the line with Andy “”rat catcher”" as i called him when he was based at 42 cdo when he was in the marines, I had only been out of training a few months when we went out to Iraq for the first time. He was my section 2ic or “”2 ice cream”" as he put it. I looked up to him as he was an awesome bloke on a personal level as well as a professional one. I learnt alot from Andy when i was a junior marine, im still in the marines and still use the things Andy showed me, id like to think some of them helped me pass my junior command course.
My thoughts go out to all his family and all that knew him.
R.I.P mate.
We briefly ran the Salamanca inn at smallwood in 1998, Andrew (Danky) was a welcome regular before becoming a part-time barman.
His wonderful warmth of character and humour endeared him to us, we have been so affected by his death, our hearts go out to his family.
Drew worked with Pete about 10 years ago at Smithy Garage and built up a very special friendship over the years. He was a very special young man and no matter how busy he was always found time to visit us when he was home. Drews tragic death has left us stunned and our thoughts and prayers go out to his Mum, Dad, sister and family.
We will never forget you Drew
Pete, Gill, Ross, Lewis & Hollie xx
Where do we start !!
What an amazing human being Danky was.
We knew Danky from the Bulls Head, Smallwood days when Roz worked there as a waitress back in the early 90′s.
A friendship soon blossomed and numerous excursions on a Saturday took us to places like Blackpool and Buxton for a beverage or three.
We all had ‘other halves’ in tow albeit no one was married at this stage.
We all went on holiday to Malia in Crete about twelve years ago and had a fantastic holiday.
Just wanted to share a memory with everyone to bring a smile to your faces.
Danky had disappeared for the day fishing. Unbeknown to us he had trod on a sea urchin and seemed to be in a little discomfort as he returned to the apartment.
We can see him now…..he spent a couple of hours by the edge of the pool with his penknife trying to get all these splinters out of the sole of his foot…..and there were hundreds but he was getting nowhere.
A day later he went to the chemist and they gave him some cream and they all fell out quickly !!!
Reading previous messages it becomes apparent that Danky was a loyal and trusted friend to many people.
We too shall miss Danky coming to see us as he always did at this time of year and having deep and meaningful conversations over dinner.
We have had the privilege over the years to be part of Danky’s life but more importantly Danky has been part of our life for which we will never forget.
Rest in Peace Danky !
Tim, Roz and Gabriel Nicklin xxx
There is nothing that we can add to which has already been said and we are as devastated as everyone.
R.I.P Danky u will never be forgotten
Love the ‘Fords’ x x x x x x x x x
Thank you to Dale for enabling us to pay our tributes – very will deserved
Drew worked for Smithy Garage from1993 to 1997, but we always new that he was destined for greater and better things. We will miss him, as he always visited when he was home. Drew was very thoughtful, he always asked about our children, what they were doing, how they were doing with rugby/school etc.
Our thoughts are with all his family, at this very sad time. Drew was very special, may he rest in peace.
Richard, Lesley, Harry and Peter
Having known Danky from School (Heathfield) I was devestated to hear the news. My thoughts and prayers go out to his Mum, Dad, sister and family, he was one of the best and I will always remember him for being so outgoing.
Rest in Peace Danky
Jo Webb (nee: Ravenscroft) X
Andrew and I started primary school together on the same day, i can see us now sat on our little chairs next to mrs shoreton. Andrew’s sister Belinda is my best friend. I have loads of fond memories of when we were all kids – camping out and working on my mum and dads farm for some pocket money.
Andrew has got to be the nicest guy i could ever have wished to have known.
My heart goes out to Richard, Josie, Bel, Steve & Alysha, and all who knew him and will miss him terribly like i do.
I cannot begin to describe the feelings of numbness and disbelief and Andy’s death. I have happy and fond memories of the times Andy and I spent together as children, along with his sister Belinda. Admiring his shiny sparkly boots before parade as a cadet, driving his XR2 along a country lane trying desperately to frighten him, and failing miserably. More recently he visited us in Norfolk and we spent time together chatting about his plans for the future and completing his MSc, he had such fine plans. I managed to talk him into helping me fix the brakes on our car (actually he did most of it, he was much better at it than me) I had forgotten until after his death that he had fixed the handbrake and instead of the old 12 ‘clicks’ it now worked at a more reasonable 3. It is amazing that the act of applying a handbrake can bring about so many memories, so many great memories. Andy was a great boy and he grew, with the guidance and support of his family, into a great man. I am so incredibly proud of his achievements throughout his life particularly in the Royal Marines, and for the past two years his belief in what he and his colleagues were trying (and largely succeeding) to achieve in Iraq.
I will miss him greatly, the world is a poorer place without his presence, but richer for his having been here.
“And in the end, it’s not the years in your life that count, it’s the life in your years”
Abraham Lincoln
I knew Andrew from Heathfied High School. He was in the same class as me. Has was such a lovely person. Very kind and warm hearted
My thoughts and prayers go out to all his family.
At school all Danky ever talked about was the army. His eyes lit up when he talked, it was his dream, his goal, his passion.
Not many of us can say we fulfilled one of our goals or dreams that we set ourselves. But Danky did. He knew what he wanted out of life and went with it. Setting new goals and not stopping till he achieved them. He showed so much care and compassion. And always put the feelings of others before himself. He is an inspiration to us all.
God bless him.
I worked with Andy for a while, and i know that he will be missed by all those he worked with. his family and friends.
My thoughts and prayers go out to all who knew you
R.I.P Andy
Gone but not forgotten
I worked with Andy during his time here in Iraq. His personality was amazing, never negative, always upbeat with a smile on his face. What a hole his absence will leave… But what fond memories he has left. We all come over here knowing the dangers, the risks that we take, yet somehow, people like Andy come along and remind us of WHY we are here. He loved his work and took great pride in it. We have lost a comrade, a “mate”, a friend. May his family find peace in knowing that he was loved by all who had the honor of meeting and knowing him.
May you be with God Andy, rest in peace…
Shane
Hi Dale. Praying for you and for Andy’s family. God bless you. Meg in Virginia
I went to Heathfield High School with Andy, we didn’t hang out or move in the same circles but he was (on more than 1 occasion) my hero, he spoke up against bullying when others watched on or passed by.
He taught me that there are people out there who don’t follow the crowd, who stand up for what they believe, who work hard and do the best they can at what ever the choose to do.
He wanted to make the world a better place, we are all proud and privileged to have had a moment with him.
I never asked him, but I bet he was an avid recycler.
My thoughts and sympathies stretch to all of his family and dearest friends.
“some people make the world more special just by being in it” you’ll be greatly missed Andrew
Dear all,
There have been many articles in the local newspapers about Andy, but one paper in particular may be of interest. The Sentinel have set up a lasting tribute site where you can also leave your messages. The web address is http://lastingtribute.thisisthesentinel.co.uk/famousperson/dancaster/2671204.
Thank you all for your kind messages, it’s amazing just how many lives Andy touched.
Steve, Belinda and Alysha
Apologies the link should read
http://lastingtribute.thisisthesentinel.co.uk/famousperson/dancaster/2671204
Andy was my first boyfriend and I think I was his first girlfriend, a memory that will last forever.
I was 16 and he was 19 and he was a gentleman, caring, thoughtful and so much fun.
He’d pick me up in his bright yellow car and when we’d go out to the pub he would do everything possible to stop someone stealing it, I used to joke and ask him why he hadn’t taken out the engine as well.
I remember a great weekend spent in York for my 16th birthday when he produced a cup cake with a candle in it.
I remember a lovely time in Wales on a very hot day.
I remember our first holiday abroad to Crete with Dave and Helen, Roz and Tim we hired out mopeds and cruised around the island.
I remember when he took me to Norfolk (I’m pretty sure it was Norfolk) to see his Granny who he absolutely adored and I think his cousins were there too, his family was so special to him.
I remember him always beating me at pool.
I remember him doing the ironing for his Mum.
I remember him loving his Dog.
I remember him writing me a beautiful poem which I later realized were the lyrics to a Roxette song…he had me going for a while.
I remember him making fun of his Dad for being so organized when he ate, leaving just enough of everything on the plate until last.
I remember him picking me up and telling me to close my eyes as he was taking me somewhere special, we drove around for what seemed like ages and when we finally stopped and I could open my eyes again…we were back at my house! I don’t think I took that one too well, but I can laugh now.
I remember the time he came to see me and told me he was going to Australia for a year, he broke my heart but it was something he was passionate about and he sent me letters and postcards all the time…I still have them!
I remember him meeting my Granny for the first time and he gave her a big hug and kiss.
I remember him loving his Sister.
I remember him loving his parents.
I remember him loving his mates.
I remember him laughing…always.
I remember him always caring.
I will always remember him…….
Louise x
I also worked with Drew at Smithy Garage about ten years ago for two years before he set off on his travels to Australia. He was a great guy to work with, always messing about and having a laugh.(eg. Disconnecting the lights or screenwashers on my car or one Christmas filling Petes car with old exhausts so that he had to empty it when he returned for it on Boxing day.)
It’s these things and his ‘Lust for Life’ that I’ll always remember and how he managed to fit so many experiences and people into a very short life. He had a positive effect on so many people all over the world.
Our thoughts go out to his family at this very difficult time.
Phil and Nikki
I worked with Andy a few times, and the thing that always put him above others was the way he always had time for other people, and would go out off his way to help them. On his last leave in August i was stood drinking in the bar in Jordan. I didnt see him come in, but he saw me. He made a point off coming accross to say hello.
That was the type of person he was.
R.I.P Andy. My thoughts are with your family.
Drew will be so sadly missed, its unbelievable that he has passed away! Having been his neighbour since he moved in, its strange to think that he won’t be Returning To Home (RTH!) Today, on the eve of his funeral I not allowing myself to wallow in misery, but to hold my head up high like the great man would have wanted. Actually that should read demanded, thinking about it!
There are so many occasions of merriment and mirth to share that i could go on forever. So i’ll spare you the time and get straight to one i’d like to share.
Not long after moving in we decided to have a party, I say we. As it involved nos 39, 41 and 43 (Drew, myself and Dom). We removed the adjoining fence panels and set up a marquee, dj, lights and filled my fridge with beer! The party was a storm with approx 70 – 100 people turning up in total, it was that good even the police made an appearance! At approx 2:00am, Dom and I were wondering where all the ladies had disappeared to?
Only to peer into to Drew’s house to find him being the perfect host pouring white wine into crystal cut glasses with soothing music and dimmed lighting.
God that guys cool we thought sipping from our tinnys and decided sod it we’ll go and join him!!!
To Drew probably the best neighbour in the world (sorry Dom) make sure those angels are pulling their weight and not slacking!
Love Noel
The first time I met Andrew it was raining, he was on his bike and just finished work (Congleton), I had a van and Andy asked if I would be so good and give him and his bike a lift home, I said yes mate, just put the bike in the back and off we went. The next night it was raining, so again Andy asked for a lift, again off we went, when we got to his home he offered me some money he said that it was his bus fare, incase I wasn’t able to give him and his bike another lift. I just laughed and drove off, that was the start of a long lasting friendship, one that will always be remembered. See you on the other side Andy and you can give me a lift.
I have known Drew since he used to service my car at Smithy garage. Then he came to see me about starting Karate. That is when I really got to know him.
As with everything he put his all into it, was alwys questioning and trying ‘harder’ to get it right.
We spoke when he joined the marines and again when he decided to take up his current work.
In conversations with him since there is no doubt that he was satisfied with what he was doing, such a pity that the outcome is as it is.
He was a ‘mate’ and one you would always be pleased to see, where ever your were.
We will miss you.
The thoughts of all the Club are with you and your family.
It is difficult to express our feelings, we are both devastated at the loss of Andy, but we are lucky enough to have a very recent happy memory of a visit from Andy and Jo on Gerald’s birthday in August, when we went out for a meal together. Mary remembers how interested Andy was in her collection of Morse Keys. It was a lovely sunny day and we took some photographs in the garden.
Our thoughts are with Jo, Richard, Belinda, Steve and the rest of the family at this very sad time.
Andy was a very special, warm, caring and brave young man, whose life was tragically cut short doing what he believed in. We are very proud to have known him.
Rest in peace Andy.
It is lovely to read such heart-warming messages about Andy. He was a lovely person and we were all proud of his achievements. He will be greatly missed. Our thoughts are with Uncle Dicky, Aunt Josie, Cousin Belinda, Steve and Alysha at this time.
I was so privileged & humbled to read about Andrew, from your messages I felt that I knew this man, who before was just a name to me. I would like to share this poem:
Love’s Argument
I took love to task. Behold I said
How many a weary one hath only straw to lye upon.
“There will I lay my head”, said love “’tis straw I ask”.
I took love to task. Behold I said
How many thorns there be to rend and pierce with treachery,
our lives.
Love bent him down and took the thorns
and made of them a crown.
I took love to task. Behold I said
Yon gibbet with it’s burden dread
Hate reigns.
Love answered me, “I found a throne like that on Calvary”.
I said to love thy law is much too hard
I cannot follow thee, love stretched forth mighty arms and said
“come child, I’ll carry thee”.
Fr Andrew, SDC. (written during WWII)
I knew Drew through Smithy Garage i always found him to be pleasant, charming and an all round cheeky chappie. He always had a twinkle in his eye, you were never sure whether he had just done something to someone or was just about to. Keep on twinkling Drew.
You will be sadly missed
Julee and David (former Brown)
Just come back from Drew’s funeral.
It was a very moving experience, with the ‘Honour Guard’ and Bugler in attendance. Well done lads – you made it very special for all who came & there were a lot of us!
With so many there I did not want to bother Drew’s family, but would take this chance to offer sincere condolences.
Also I would pass on the appreciation of many friends who have read and been moved by the notes on this site.
John
I was in royal marine training with andy in the mighty 769 troop . He was a great bloke to have around in training and was always there for us when we were down . I was gutted when i heard about the death of a great man . I will miss seeing him around the bizzares but my thoughts go out to his family and friends , will miss u andy love smudge.
I just heard of Andrew’s tragic death today, and I was stunned! I remember him from Brereton Green Cubs & Scouts as a child. When I was told, I must admit that I vaguely remembered the name, but it was when I saw his picture, I knew him straight away. His distinctive face is one no one could forget! And then the memories of that time in Cubs came flooding back. Whenever we needed to be in teams to play a game, I knew if Andrew was on our side we would win!
It is really sad because, during the that time of innocence as children we don’t think of what is going to happen to us in the future, we tend to live for the moment. When I read what Andrew went on to achieve with his life, it really inspired me. I feel he was a very special person, he will be remember with great respect and dignity!
Although many years have passed since that time in childhood, I have become very aware that we live in a really small world, for people I know very well and who have lost touch with years ago, it turns out Andrew knew the same people, its good to know that he had some very good friends in his life.
I am really happy that Andrew was given a funeral he truly deserved, and although I only found out today. ‘Andrew mate you are in my thoughts! And you really did go on to do some good in the world we live! You did Good! Blessed Be’
Robb
I’ve known Drew for many years, and i think he was my 1st ever crush, i must have only been 10 or 12 years old! He was the one who made me laugh and made me feel like ‘one of the guys’.
I really can’t believe he’s gone, even at his funeral it didn’t feel real.
I’m going to miss living across the road from him, and knowing that he was safe and sound when i saw his little car parked across the road. My mum is going to miss him, he never failed to drop in to her work just to let her know he was home! That’s the sort of thing Drew did and the sort of thing I’m going to miss about him.
It’s such a waste of a life and I’m going to miss him soo much!
All my love to the family
At this time we know that there is another angel looking down on us and protecting us. I’ll love you forever and you’ll always be in my heart.
Bev X
Danky was a fantastic guy and a pure gentleman he will be so very missed by myself and so many more, i find some consolation in that he will meet with my brother Garry Bratt and also Andy Clayton on the other side, 3 amazing men who are sorely missed and have left such large holes in so many lives. My heart goes out to the family in this very sad time, my thoughts are with you all. The service at his funeral was a fitting tribute to a truly fine gentleman R.I.P Danky you were one of a kind. Till we meet again one day Mandy Bratt x
After attending Andy’s funeral yesterday, I wanted to express my sincere condolences to Andy’s family.
As a former team mate in Iraq, I had the honour to work alongside Andy and gain from his wealth of experience.
He was always there, covering our six as the rear gunner, always a calm and extremely professional person who gained the respect of everyone he came in contact with.
The sheer amount of Andy’s friends and work colleagues that were in attendance to pay their respects was a fitting tribute to a man that had achieved so much and would have gone on to do so many more good things in his life.
My thoughts are with Andy’s family at this difficult time, but please take comfort in knowing that in every avenue that his life took, Andy was loved and respected by all that knew him.
He will never be forgotten.
I’ll miss you mate.
Mark(Echo 7)
sadly missed. very nice friendly bloke when i was there with him in j coy 42 cdo. . well liked and loved by everyone
condolences with his family and all who knew him
take care friend, i`ll see you up there
R.I.P
I have read and re read these messages over the past two weeks.Andy was, and still is, much loved and respected by all who knew him. I have cried many tears for our dear friends Jose and Rich who have coped with such dignity,Andy is looking down and must be so proud of them,as they are of him. Much Love God Bless
andy was a true inspiration and after living with him for a year and serving in sierra leone with him he always taught me to smile in the face of adversity. was always a welth of knowledge and never looked down on the less inteligent of us !! he was a “top lad” . rip mate.
I worked with Andy to some degree at GRS, Tallil – Andy was a true gentlemen and just a plain sweetheart – God always takes the good first and Andy is definitely in this catagory — he is now watching out for all of the RLT across Iraq and doing his best to keep them safe but remember if God wants you – you must go as Andy did – God bless you Andy — watch over all of us – thanks for being our Angel. With love, Edmay
Only just found this site so sorry i’m late.
I heard about Andy through the grapevine and I must say it hit hard. I met Andy whilst in training in the Marines, we then went to our first unit together and became good friends. He was a true professional, an honest and genuine man and had a knack for coming out smelling of roses. he always did well in everything he did. I have met many people in my life, I class myself as one of the boys, someone who you meet in all walks of life, but Andy, he wasn’t one of the boys as such, he was better! He was someone who you will never find another of! And that it why the loss is so great!
He was the man I relied on for intelligent conversation and I will miss him!
I met his parents one day in passing and they were very kind people (they let me use the toilet), but in that brief meeting I knew they loved Andy but most of all I could tell how proud they were.
I could probably write forever here but I won’t.
My thoughts are with all his family and those who knew him.
Love ya mate R.I.P
Mick
What a good mate.
In fact a great bloke to work with.
I first met Andy when he came to Tallil in Iraq to work in the RLT.Later when RLT 14 was formed he was my 2i/c or as he would say my 2 ice cream!
We had some good times some hard times but always a good laugh between us all.
First and foremost we were all friends within the team with enough experience to know how to live, work and survive in Iraq.
Once on a mission to a town of noted animosity towards any form of reconstruction effort Andy was in the lead vehicle.We picked up an arranged Iraqi Police escort to take us to the site we needed to visit but on the way the escort deviated from the route. After a short time Andy realised that we were being led down a dead end road with the potential to be trapped and ambushed. With speed and calmness Andy managed to get the team turned around and bugged out across the desert and with skillful navigation we negotiated difficult ground for many miles. Those of us that were there to this day believe that his actions saved us.
I was on leave when I heard of Andys death and I was stunned we were all stunned. Andy was such a careful operator.
I came to Andys funeral and it was a testiment to him and his life displayed by the amount of people who attended.
I have been robbed as I have never stood at a bar having a beer with Andy but I know from our long conversations maybe we will meet in the Elysian Fields some day.
You are my friend.
Dom.
I am immensely proud and in awe of what Andrew achived with his life, we grew up together and his sparkling personality as a chlid will remain with me forever. I regret we never got to catch up as adults, but I hope I can hounour his memory by living my life by his example – to the full with no regrets.
See ya bud
I have been so touched by all the comments everyone has written on this site about my brother Andrew. I was overwelmed by the amont of people who attended his funeral and the support my family and I have received over the past few weeks has been heart warming and although I haven’t been able to thank you all we are truely grateful.
I was always very proud of Andrew and what he had achieved, although I now wish I had made it known a bit more. He was so outgoing and ‘full of beans’ even as a child. He never seemed to sit still for more than a few seconds before he’d be running off and doing something else! I always remember mum saying ‘Andrew walk – don’t run..!!’. He was always falling over or bumping into things because of this! Mum, Dad & I all knew he would end up in the forces. All his toys revolved around ‘Army stuff’. His favourite outfit was a camouflaged pair of trousers and t-shirt! Even his bedroom looked like the middle of a jungle- his curtains, bedding and furniture were all ‘Camouflaged!’ It was so dark in his bedroom when his curtains were shut, it was like being in a black hole!!
When I found out why he was in Iraq and what he was trying to achieve there, I was so humbled. He did this job because that was the kind of person he was. He was always putting other people first and wanting to help. He was so caring and such a perfect gentleman. He touched so many lives, even only meeting some people once, he made an lasting impression on them. He truely was a saint. It is only now that I realise just how popular he was. Although he was only home for 3 weeks at a time, he crammed so much into them! Every time he saw my daughter Alysha, he couldn’t believe how much she’d grown and how she’d changed. He was her ‘Uncle Drew’ and I know he thought the world of her. (thought she was a bit noisy though!)
The things I will remember about Andrew the most are his broad smile and (seemingly gleeming) white teeth! And every time he’d give me a hug – nearly crushing me! He always called me ‘Bel’, and Steve he called Stevenage’. (he had quite a few knick-names for people)
It has taken me a few weeks to find the strength to write this. I have found great comfort in reading all the tributes on this web site and will continue to do so. I cannot thank you ‘Dale’ enough for allowing us all to express our feelings and thoughts on this website, about a very special and unforgettable person.
Til we meet again Andrew, dear brother you will be sadly missed….xxxxx
After reading about Andrew and all the good things that people have said about him, we feel sorry never to have had the chance to meet him. We met his parents Josie and Richard whilst on holiday the year before last and formed a solid friendship with the nicest couple that you could ever meet. We would like to offer our heartfelt sorrow for the tragic loss of a lovely lad.
God bless
well i am leaving 2007 behind me, but will take my memories into 2008! so wherever any of you are on new years eve, at midnight, join me in a toast to Drew, our absent friend! love Maureen x
i worked closely with andy in the same section at 42 during telic we were very close and got upto quite a bit of mischeif!! andy was on of this worlds good guys.
i have many fond memories and some good photos of andy if his family want to see them i will send them or come up and pay my respects as sadly i could not make the funeral.
andy will be sadly missed
r.i.p andy
joe noble joe22rm@aol.com
forever in our thoughts, and always in our hearts.
A true Diamond whos influences live strong in the the young men he turned into soldiers. Respect x RIP Andy x
In a little under 3 weeks it will be a year since my brother was killed in Iraq. In some ways it seems like yesterday when I heard the dreadful news, in other ways it seems like a lifetime….
Everyday that passes I wake up still not wanting to believe he’s gone. Hoping that this past year has just been a nightmare and when I wake up it will be how it used to be. Everyone happy. Everthing normal.
His passing has left a gaping hole, wich can never be filled. It seems so unfair. A person so kind, thoughtful and the perfect gentleman had to be taken away from us. I miss him more than words can say…
I tell Alysha (my daugher) every day, that her ‘uncle drew’ loves her very much and hope she still remembers him.
I wear his hero bracelet with pride. Knowing what he did for his country and Iraq.
I will probably wear it for the rest of my life.
He was killed on ‘all saints day’ – November 1st. He truly was and still is a saint.
In a little under 3 weeks, it will be 365 days since my brother was killed.
x x till we meet again dear brother x x
x x bel x x
a year on and your still so loved and missed,
forever thinking of you, and keeping your family in my heart and thoughts
Carrie
x
We often think of Andrew and wonder how his family are doing, we hope the pain is easing a little……
November 1st,All saints day is a big national holiday in Spain, where we live, it will always be the day we especially remember Andrew, it really is difficult to think of him without a smile as well as a tear.
At no time was I ever in his company without him making me laugh out loud.
xx
I went to see a production of ‘Oh! what a lovely war’ at Sandbach Boys school on 11-11, last Tuesday, which was Brilliant.
Couldn’t help but think of our mate Andy while I was there.
To say he is Missed – does not come near it.
Thinking about you matey.
John and all the Scott family.
More than a year since you have been gone,
Forever in our hearts and always in our thoughts,
R.I.P Andy
I served with Andy in the Royal Marines and first met him in training as his troop and mine both shared block K accomodation at Lympstone, we soon met again when I joined 42 commando shortly after him. After a couple of years we ended up in the same company (K then later J). We shared some good times together and became good oppoes. I lost touch with Andy after leaving the corps in late 2003, It saddened me deeply to learn about Andy’s passing and I think the world will miss a man like him.
Rest in peace Andy next time i supp a guiness I’ll spare you a thought.
I first saw Drew in 1997 either at Manchester Airport or on the plane to Australia, can’t really remember which. I was going to Australia with My Cousin Michael for a working holiday. Did not talk to Drew until I saw him again at a hostel in Sydney 2 days later but recognised him from the plane and got talking. I liked him immediately. He was young and I thought a little naive but an obvious warm heart and a good laugh. We struck up an immediate friendship and I soon persuaded him to come down to Coogee Bay where I had read about a cool hostel to live in. Drew and I worked and travelled together in Sydney and around Australia for about the next 6 months. We finally split up when I went back to Sydney to meet Åsa a girl we met along the way (Åsa and I are still together have 2 children and live in Sweden). I met Drew again when he came back to Sydney before he left for New Zealand and then again we travelled briefly together in New Zealand. When I describe the times I had together with Drew, working as Driver guides on Fraser Island, working together as farm hands for 3 – 4 months on sheep and cattle stations in the outback , I always say that they were the best times of my life. We were 2 young men on the biggest adventure of our lives, care free and loving life. My big adventure ended when I came back to 9 – 5 work and a normal life. It seems that Drews adventure kept on continuing and in some ways I envy him that he managed to do that. I last saw Drew when he came to visit Åsa and I, at our apartment in Newcastle, just as he was starting his training in the Marines. I tried to get in touch a few times after that, looking him up on Friends Reunited, more recently looked for him on Facebook and I once called his mother in Cheshire but he was of course away somewhere dangerous at the time. Finally today I googled him again to try and get in touch and bam, I find this… I am so sorry for all of you that loved him. I have read many things that describe him well. A gentleman, adventurer, willing to try anything and he certainly wanted to do things his own way, its all true and I sit here in despair this morning 2 years after the fact but grieving all the same. Drew shared with me the greatest adventure of my life and he was the perfect companion for the trip. A man that touched my life in a way that only a handful over others have managed. I only wish I had know earlier so I could have come to say goodbye to my friend.
MESSAGE for Andy Gill if you want to e-mail me I was a friend of Drew’s i would be happy to send you some of the newspaper cutings I have, sorry you didnt get to know earlier, it might just help to ease your sadness. [email address sent directly to Andy Gill]
Another birthday away from us all, R.I.P. Drew, missing you always
Hey – great website, just looking around some blogs, seems a really nice platform you are using. I’m currently using WordPress for a few of my sites but looking to change one of them over to a platform similar to yours as a trial run. Anything in particular you would recommend about it?
Three years have gone and not a week goes by that we don’t think about you, especially now.
R.I.P xxx
Another Christmas without you!! God Bless Maureen
Sending my best regards to Andrews family and his friends all over the world that still think of him.