"Today, is a day when we remember all of our Nation's heroes who have given their lives defending freedom and democracy," said Andrews.  "This year Memorial Day has an extra special meaning in light of the heroic acts of many on September 11 and the subsequent war against terror.  I am extremely proud and honored to stand next to a living hero, Sgt. David Smith, to honor the memory of all the heroes who have made the ultimate sacrifice for their country."

Sgt. David Smith, a former resident of Mantua, is currently a member of the United States Army's Tenth Mountain Division.  He was injured as a result of a mortar blast during an 18 hour firefight with remaining Taliban and Al Qaeda holdouts on the first night of Operation Anaconda.  Smith and 80 men from the Tenth Mountain division were pinned on a ridge in the mountains of Afghanistan where they dodged heavy mortar and machine gun fire throughout the night.

Sgt. Smith married his current wife, Ellie Smith, on base at Fort Drum, NY following the attacks of September 11.  They currently reside on base in Fort Drum, NY.

Rep. Andrews began his Memorial Day by participating in the Annual Audubon Memorial Breakfast at the American Legion Hall in Audubon, N.J.  There he joined with veterans and their families to thank these brave men and women for their service to their country. 

"This is a special event that I look forward to every year," said Andrews.  "It allows several generations of Americans to interact with the war heroes of our Country's past conflicts and to learn about the sacrifices made by these individuals.  It is one of the best lessons that a young man or woman can learn about their Country's history."

Rep. Andrews concluded his day by participating in an Annual Memorial Day Ceremony at the Foreign Wars Memorial in Haddon Heights.  He joined with a former Haddon Heights High School graduate and current United States Marine Capt. Logan DePue, and the Mayor of Haddon Heights to address those in attendance on the importance of continued service to the Country.  Congressman Andrews pointed to Capt. Depue's outstanding record as a Untied States Marine Corp Officer as a model of a true American hero.  Capt. Depue is due to earn the rank of Major this July and has been assigned to the elite HMX1 squadron that is responsible for flying the President aboard Marine One.

"Following the attacks of September 11, our men and women of the United States Military were called to service to use their training and skill to defend freedom half a world a way.  Their service to their country comes as a result of a tremendous dedication, selfless-spirit and call to duty," commented Andrews.  "Capt. Depue exhibits all of these qualities and I am particularly proud to stand with this outstanding young man who serves as a role model for this entire community."