Bristol post office renamed for First Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna

Large crowd of loved ones and dignitaries recognize the late Master Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna

By Manuel C. "Manny" Correira, Photos by Richard W Dionne Jr
Posted 9/18/18

Warm, late-summer temperatures greeted a large turnout of relatives, friends and local, state and Congressional dignitaries who gathered Sunday afternoon during dedication ceremonies at the Bristol …

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Bristol post office renamed for First Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna

Large crowd of loved ones and dignitaries recognize the late Master Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna

Posted

Warm, late-summer temperatures greeted a large turnout of relatives, friends and local, state and Congressional dignitaries who gathered Sunday afternoon during dedication ceremonies at the Bristol Post Office, which was renamed in honor of hometown war hero, the late First Sgt. P. Andrew McKenna. Master Sgt. McKenna, 35, was killed in action on Aug. 7, 2015, in Kabul, Afghanistan.

The congressional delegation introduced legislation to rename the Bristol Post Office as “an enduring tribute to a young man who gave so much for his country and community.” Master Sgt. McKenna was a 17-year Army veteran and Green Beret, who served six tours in Afghanistan and Iraq. He was awarded the Bronze Star with V device for heroism in combat.

Program master of ceremonies was Bristol Postmaster Sabir Salih, who introduced David Mastroianni Jr., USPS district manager.

“We’re here to honor a young man who always wanted to join the military,” he said.  “It’s nice to see his military partners here in support.”

Indeed, many of Sgt. McKenna’s personal friends and fellow soldiers were present to mark this auspicious occasion, among them, Sgt. Major Calvin Boersma.

“Drew was a very special person and friend,” he reflected. “He always wanted the best for his friends. He was fiercely loyal. He would always be there for you. He’d do anything for us. He loved his town and he loved his country.”

The program featured the Rhode Island Army National Guard Color Guard and opened with the National Anthem by LuAnn Harris. That was followed by the Pledge of Allegiance, led by local mail employees Tommy Vaccaro, Mike Marthers, Denise Betz, and Deb Taylor. Invocation was given by Father Douglas Grant of St. Mary of the Bay Church.

Remarks were also given by U.S. Sen. Jack Reed, U.S. Sen. Sheldon Whitehouse, U.S. Congressmen Jim Langevin and David Cicilline, Gov. Gina Raimondo, and Town Administrator Steven Contente.

Senator Reed, who did much to help make the renaming of the Bristol Post Office possible, said Sgt. McKenna was a very unique individual.

“He laid down his life to serve our country,” he noted. “I remember presenting the American flag to Andrew on July 4, 2015, at Patriotic Exercises (as the farthest traveler). I thanked him personally for his service. Sgt. McKenna continues to inspire us. For that, we are eternally grateful.”

 Sen. Whitehouse also spoke fondly of Bristol’s latest war hero.

“It’s appropriate that we’re all here today on the most patriotic street in America honoring a true American hero,” he said.

Congressman Cicilline echoed the same sentiments.

“There’s no question that Bristol loves Andrew,” he said. “This is an important day for us. He exemplified the very best of this town and his country. It’s very clear he always wanted to be a soldier and a Green Beret. He was very determined, brave, and selfless.”

Governor Raimondo thanked everyone for coming out in force on this very special occasion to honor a hometown hero and his dedicated parents.

“Peter and Carol are extraordinary,” she explained. “They are both strong and dignified. Any parents who would raise a son like Andrew deserve our respect and honor.” With that, the crowd applauded loudly.

Town Administrator Steve Contente drew a parallel between the Postal Service and Sgt. McKenna.

“Like the Postal Service, trust, stability, professionalism, duty, safety, dedication and dependability were all qualities of Sgt. Andrew McKenna,” he noted. “Be sure that Sgt. McKenna’s message of devotion and service will motivate others to serve their nation and communities in other ways. It’s the right thing.”

Guest speaker on the program was Gen. James McConville, U.S. Army Vice Chief of Staff.

“His legacy will live on,” said the General. “This is what America is about. Andrew was a great soldier, leader, and a great man.”

Andrew’s 7th Special Forces Group Commander, Col. Patrick Colloton, knew Master Sgt. McKenna about as well as anyone.

“Drew never liked standing still,” he said. “He is a part of our legacy. Drew wasn’t going to let things hold him back. He was always moving forward.”

Following the unveiling of the commemorative plaque honoring Master Sgt. McKenna by Carol and Peter McKenna, benediction was given by the Rev. Henry P. Zinno, Jr., pastor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church. David Mastroianni Jr. offered closing remarks.    

Andrew’s mother summed it up nicely.

“Andrew was strong, brave, and selfless,” she said, “exemplifying what it is to be an American soldier.”

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