Two soldiers from Rhode Island remembered after giving the ultimate sacrifice
By Bianca Buono
bbuono@abc6.com
@BBuonoABC6
Two of Rhode Island’s fallen soldiers are now permanently etched into the state’s history. The names of First Sergeant P. Andrew McKenna and Staff Sergeant Timothy McGill were engraved on a monument in the Garden of Heroes outside of the State House in a ceremony Saturday. They are the 28th and 29th Rhode Islanders to give the ultimate sacrifice since 9/11.
"It’s very emotional. As a mother I can’t imagine how these mothers feel losing their sons. As a governor I’m incredibly proud of them that they would serve in the armed forces and make the ultimate sacrifice so that we can be free,” said Governor Gina Raimondo.
First Sergeant P. Andrew McKenna of Bristol died on August 7th last year in Afghanistan. His family was overcome with emotion at Saturday’s ceremony.
"He was undeniable sociability and a sharp quick wit and he knew how to blend those to really lead people and make them do what they were supposed to do,” said his uncle Robert McKenna.
Staff Sergeant Timothy McGill was from New Jersey but was serving with the Rhode Island National Guard when he passed away on September 21, 2013. He was also in Afghanistan.
"He got along with everybody. I first met Tim when we were on the training team together so we were together for about four years,” said Sergeant First Class Fabio Becker.
The names of the two brave soldiers are now alongside 27 others on the monument inside the Garden of Heroes. Every single name represents a Rhode Islander who gave their life for our country.
"For me it’s just incredibly prideful to have known Tim,” said Becker.
"We know him as Andrew and now the citizens of Rhode Island will know him as a hero,” Robert McKenna said.
The garden is on the southwest lawn of the State House. It was created back in 2005.
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