CPT Andrew P. Ross, U.S. Army
January 26, 1989 – November 27, 2018
Drew grew up in Lexington, Virginia, and graduated from Rockbridge County High School in 2007. A gifted multi-sport athlete, he especially loved soccer and served as team captain. At the United States Military Academy at West Point, he continued his academic and athletic career. He played soccer during his plebe year before joining the strength team, where he discovered a passion for weightlifting. He quickly excelled, often exceeding the perfect score on the Army Physical Fitness Test. His dedication to fitness extended beyond personal goals; he regularly helped fellow cadet-athletes improve their strength and conditioning.
After graduating from West Point in 2011, Drew completed the Armor Basic Officer Leaders Course, the Army Reconnaissance Course, and Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia. He was then assigned to 3rd Platoon, Bravo Troop, 6-8 Cavalry Squadron at Fort Stewart, Georgia. Following a nine-month deployment to Logar, Afghanistan, in 2013, he completed the Special Forces Qualification Course. He went on to serve as a team leader in Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group at Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and deployed to Afghanistan with his team in August 2018. On November 27, while conducting combat operations in Ghazni Province, Drew and two of his soldiers were killed when their vehicle struck an improvised explosive device.
His legacy lives on through his wife, Felicia, and the many family members, friends, and comrades who honor his memory. The Drew Ross Memorial Foundation was established in his honor. Drew and his friend, Chase Prasnicki—also a graduate of Rockbridge County High School and West Point—were both killed in Afghanistan by improvised explosive devices. In tribute, their high school renamed its field Prasnicki–Ross Field at Veterans Stadium.
