The Free Press, Mankato, MN

Local News

September 1, 2007

Minn. soldier killed in Iraq

A soldier from Moorhead was killed while serving his third tour of duty in Iraq, a family spokesman said.

Army Sgt. Andrew Nelson, 22, died Wednesday and his family received the news from the military that night, said Todd Taylor, a family spokesman.

Nelson, who was with the 82nd Airborne Division based at Fort Bragg, N.C., was on patrol outside of Tikrit when he was killed, Taylor said. Further details were not immediately available.

Nelson enlisted in the Army immediately after high school. He also served one tour of duty in Afghanistan. He graduated from Shanley High School in Fargo, N.D., in 2003 and also attended St. Joseph’s Catholic School in Moorhead.

Valerie Ritland, principal of St. Joseph’s and Nelson’s cousin, said she was shocked after hearing of his death.

“It was so hard to believe,” she said. “I just totally miss him.”

Ritland said she remembered Nelson as being compassionate and dedicated to Boy Scouts, where he earned the rank of Eagle Scout, and to his church activities.

“He was such a person of character who showed respect for others,” she said. “His mom did a good job of raising him.”

Nelson was an altar server at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Moorhead, where Monsignor Mike Foltz remembered him as a young man with a big heart who was dedicated to serving others, his community, his country and his church.

Ron Schneider, his scoutmaster, remembered Nelson for his “constant smirk” and his talent for leadership.

“It’s hard not to be real proud,” he said.

Nelson is survived by his mother, Suzanne Nelson, and sister, Jessica, both of Moorhead.

Funeral arrangements at St. Joseph’s were pending.

Nelson’s death brought the number of people with strong Minnesota ties who have died in connection with the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan to 63.

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