PFC Andrew Small, a 2005 graduate of Wiscasset High School, was awarded one of the nation's highest decorations for heroism, the Silver Star, at a graveside service Saturday morning, October 6. His parents, Cindy and Terry Small, wanted to have the presentation of the award at his gravesite, so that members of his company could pay their respects.

Andrew was killed August 11, 2006 when his platoon came in contact with enemy forces using rocket-propelled grenades and small-arms fire during combat operations in Nangalam, Afghanistan.

The Silver Star is awarded to U.S. Army soldiers to recognize gallantry in action against an enemy of the United States while engaged in military operations. Andrew was given the Silver Star for "exceptionally valorous achievement" as a squad automatic weapon gunner with the 10th Mountain Division.

During the ceremony Captain Erik Malmstrom, told of Andrew's heroic actions on that fatal day he gave up his life for his country, his platoon, and his friends.

"PFC Small was a gunner in the lead element of a 22-man patrol. Three hours into the movement the enemy initiated a near ambush on his squad. The enemy waited until the squad's point man passed their concealed positions before they opened fire into the kill zone from 50 to 75 meters away. The ambush caught the entire lead squad in the kill zone resulting in three soldiers killed in action, two wounded in action, and the rest of the platoon being pinned down by the enemy."

"During the initial fire PFC Small and the rest of the squad were pinned down by small arms fire."

"The only cover available was to hug the side of the mountain which did not allow his squad to return fire. His team leader, SGT Smallwood, was then hit, seriously wounding him and leaving him exposed to enemy fire. PFC Small exposed himself and laid down suppressive fire against the well-fortified enemy positions. By doing this, he drew fire to his own position, but he refused to seek cover."

"This action allowed his team leader to drag himself over the cliff to cover. At this time the enemy launched another barrage of rocket propelled grenades into PFC Small's position. This volley severely injured two soldiers who later succumbed to their wounds. PFC Small was struck in the back by shrapnel."

"Even though PFC Small was wounded, he got back up and continued to lay down suppressive fire, refusing to seek cover or medical aid until he was able to facilitate the maneuver of his squad out of the kill zone. PFC Small continued to engage and be engaged by the enemy who outnumbered him by seven to one. This allowed the rest of the platoon and close air support to suppress and kill the enemy."

"When the patrol leader was able to move up to PFC Small's position, he found him lying in the trail, weapon in his hands, oriented towards the enemy and out of ammunition. PFC Small's selfless act directly saved the lives of his three other squad members and denied the enemy the ability to assault his pinned down squad."

"PFC Small's sacrifice was the most significant reason his squad was able to come out of a near ambush without losing all of the squad."

Members of Company B, with whom Andrew served, from the 10 th Mountain Division based in Fort Drum, N.Y., were still in Afghanistan when the service for Andrew was held last year.

Many members of his company expressed their respect by placing flowers at his grave. Some placed small mementos next at his gravesite, including several medals, while others knelt and wept.

"They are a special group of people," his mother said.

Other groups attending included members of the Patriot Guard Riders. This is a national organization of motorcycle riders who want to show their respect for those who risk their lives for America's freedom and security, according to their mission statement. The Guards attend the funeral services of fallen American heroes, as invited guests of the family, and to shield the mourning family and their friends from interruptions created by protestors.

Members of the American Legion who attended were Past National Commander of the American Legion, Anthony Jordan; the state Sergeant-at-Arms Daniel Ayotte; Wiscasset Post Commander James Seigars; along with several post members; and the Bath American Legion Post Color Guard.

"It makes you feel so good to have so many people care, and share our loss with us," Andrew's mother said.

Andrew's parents were presented the Silver Star by First Sergeant Jamie Nakano, of Company B.

PFC Andrew Small graduated from boot camp in October of 2005. He was attached to the First Battalion, 32nd Infantry Regiment, Third Brigade Combat Team, 10 th Mountain Division, stationed at Fort Drum N.Y. He was deployed to Afghanistan in March of 2006. He celebrated his nineteenth birthday on June 20, 2006, less than two months before his death.

Andrew was decorated seven times during his short career in the U.S. Army, which was less than one year. Besides the Silver Star, he received the Bronze Star; Purple Heart; Good Conduct Medal; War on Terrorism Medal; Afghanistan Campaign Medal; and the Combat Infantry Badge.