When Andrew Quasnitschka hurt his shoulder during his junior season on the Lake Region High School football team, he could have called it quits, could have packed up his things and waited to heal for his senior year.
But instead, said his coach, Chuck Hamaty, Quasnitschka stayed with the team as a manager, a testament to his dedication to the team and his friends.
“There was a two-way starter, lugging balls and doing laundry. He did that with the enthusiasm that he played,” said Hamaty.
Quasnitschka, a 2006 graduate from Bridgton, died unexpectedly in Texas on April 1, 2009 in a single-car accident just outside of San Antonio, Texas, where he was receiving treatment for injuries suffered in Iraq. A lance corporal and machine gunner in the U.S. Marine Corps, Quasnitschka was 21.
Andrew was born in Hartford, Conn., on Jan. 26, 1988, and raised in East Lyme, Conn. and Bridgton. He graduated from Lake Region High School in 2006 and enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He proudly served his country in Iraq as a machine gunner. Andrew is survived by his mother, Linda Quasnitschka Grinnell and step-father, Gregory Grinnell of Bridgton; his four siblings, Julie Quasnitschka and her fiancé Mitchell Wark of Old Town, Edward Quasnitschka, Nicholas Quasnitschka and Greg Grinnell of Bridgton.
Andrew joined the service after the events of September 11. This is how he lived his life. He always looked after those who were picked on or bullied. He joined the Marine Corps because they were âBadassâ and âFirst to Fightâ
Andrew lived hard and fast. He didnât know the word quit. He would try things even at his own peril. It seemed fortunate that his family lived just a ÂŒ mile from the local hospital.
Andrews Stone was found at Montauk Beach in New York. Andrew loved the ocean and fishing. He would spend hours on end during family vacations fishing on the piers with the locals.
Andrew was loved and respected by all who knew him.
Watch this video to learn more about Andrew and prepare yourself to carry his stone for the hike and story for a lifetime and ensure Maine Heroes are NOT Forgotten.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_MTcT5WW2U&rel=0
37 Comments
Dear Linda, Greg, Julie, Edward, Nicholas, Greg, and all who knew and loved Andrew,
First, let me say BLESS you and THANK you! What an honor it was to get to know Andrew while running the first annual SFC Aaron Henderson 5K on 8/8/15 in Houlton and feel the weight of his stone as a symbol of the sacrifice he made for our freedom . During this experience, Andrew’s living stone was carried through 3.1 miles of ATV trail where water lied and roots crawled out of the muddy ground and together, we wove through some hilly and flat terrain. I was mindful of Andrews love of nature as I ran through the trees covered in lush green leaves. As we neared the finish line, a fellow runner who had completed the course and was coming past us to cheer other runners on said “there’s three coming up on your back.” I don’t run competitively but with his stone in my hand, I thought no way was anyone going to pass Andrew at the finish line, so we took off. My legs let loose and gunned it and with his stone reaching to the ski, we crossed the finish line where the precious United States of America flag awaited, representing everything Andrew fought for. (Thanks Andrew for that last push!) The next morning when I woke, it took a moment to realize why I was oddly sore. Though the light stone felt heavier with distance, it held no comparison to a ruck pack. It was at that moment that my level of respect and gratitude for our soldiers deepened. The two words thank you aren’t enough to express my gratitude but please know that I’m grateful for his sacrifice and for the privilege and honor of getting to know him by the weight of his stone.
Prayerfully,
Martha Bell
Dear Martha,
Thank you so much for sharing your heartfelt reflection and for carrying his stone at the Aaron Henderson 5K! I am certain Andrew was right there with you cheering you on as you crossed the finish line– he was a fun-loving and enthusiastic individual and served as high school mascot on a few occasions! We are extremely proud of Andrew’s service in the Marine Corps and are also grateful and humbled by the outpouring of love and support since his passing. We think of Andrew often and enjoy sharing memories of him. We want to express our gratitude to you Martha for carrying Andrew’s stone and for reflecting on your experience during the race.
Kindly, Julie Quasnitschka Wark and family
Dear Linda, Greg, and the rest of the Quasnitscha family and friends,
I never knew Andrew but throughout this experience I felt like I knew him my whole life. It was an honor to carry his rock and get to know what kind of person Andrew was.
The more I talked to people about Andrew the more I felt like I knew him. Everyone I talked to talked about how he loved football. I started my weekend with Andrew by taking him to Lake Regions Homecoming football game.
The next day was the Tough Mudder. Andrew and I went through 19 obstacles and covered 10.1 miles in about 5 hours. Every time I didn’t think I could make it, I would remember all the stories I was told. About how Andrew was a team player kind of guy and a “bad ass”. It was a life changing experience for me, and an honor to be able to carry Andrews rock. God bless you and your family, you’re in my prayers.
– Katie Throgmorton
Katie , thank you so much for having Andrew’s stone for the weekend. I can’t begin to tell you how heartwarming it was when I saw the picture of his stone at LR homecoming. He played his heart and soul out on that football field and it was so meaningful that his stone was there that night. It brought up all the good good memories our family shared there. And Tough Mudder would have been something he would have had to do. Thank you for carrying his stone with you and believe me when I tell you he was with you and had a lot to do with making that whole weekend happen. God bless you Katie and thank you for being such a caring young lady.
Linda Grinnell and family
Well, how can I start this note to you all when I feel so much for you and Andrew Josef. I honestly did not know what to expect on the day of the hike and being so very busy, did not really allow myself enough time to reflect with worry. I don’t mean to be cavalier at all – I just have a healthy faith that it will all work out beautifully and it did! The day of the hike was not perfect by any means but the end result was exactly as it should have been. In true fashion, I ended up with the ‘wrong’ group, found myself on the most difficult hike of the day and discovered this far too late to do anything but rally and suck it up. This hike was difficult for me and I found myself working hard, sweating and feeling from time to time that some of my steps were of a dangerous nature. Who am I to complain? My work on that day and my effort was nothing compared to that of your son, brother. I can’t even say I sacrificed anything in comparison to how Andrew sacrificed. His own life. Yes it was hard for me but I am alive and he is not. Who the hell am I to complain? I am a mother, daughter, sister, friend, niece, auntie, grand daughter, colleague, significant other and I am a girl, a woman with a kind heart and a fierce love inside of me. Love of life, people, stories, truths. Everyone’s story is important and we need to make room for it all. I made room for Andrew in my heart and carried him with me on that day and I still do. Thank you for sharing him with me and telling his story so that I can do the same. I am so honored to have carried Andrew Josef with me and I love that I now have his story in my mind and heart forever.
Susan, thank you so much for carrying Andrew’s stone and for enduring the challenge . When Andrew returned home from boot camp he shared a lot of stories of situations how he had to suck it up in order to succeed and from that experience he applied it to everyday life and from then on nothing was going to stop him from doing anything!That was such a huge lesson for him and I’m sure he was with you as you were facing your challenge that day.
Thank you for making room for him in your heart.
Can’t even begin to tell you how much what you did means to us.
Your
Dear Quasnitscha family and friends,
First and foremost I would like to express my deepest condolences to you and yours. I recently had the privilege of spending the day with Andrews stone while running in a Veterans Day 4 miler as well as hiking up Blue Hill Mountain on 08NOV2015. I cannot even begin to express the intense emotions I felt in my heart sharing my endeavors and challenges with him that day. Challenges I believe his âno quit â attitude helped push me through. I would like for you to know that I carried his stone with pride and was beyond humbled by the experience. When I found out Andrew was going to be the soldier I honored I read his page repeatedly and I could not help feel a deep bond with him. We have so many similarities, both from CT, injured in high school during a sport we loved, passion for the ocean and a military background, I canât help but think it was meant to be. Andrew seemed like an amazing person and I am grateful to have contributed to his remembrance. I can make a promise that I will always carry a piece of that day in my heart and I will never forget Andrew Quasnitscha and his sacrifices made to this beautiful country.
Very Respectfully,
Jessica Casey
Dear Linda, Greg, Julie, Mitchell, Edward, Nicholas, Greg, and the rest of Andrew’s family, when I was assigned Andrew’s stone and read his story, I couldn’t help but feel as though my son and Andrew were very similar. He is only 5, but loves football (he can’t wait til next year when he can play with a team), and he lives “hard and fast,” just as Andrew is remembered. In fact, when we last went to the hospital, the X-ray technician remembered him by name.
We took Andrew’s stone up Gorham Mountain in Acadia National Park, and were honored to have Andrew there with us. There were many families we passed along the way and at the summit, I couldn’t help but think about the sacrifice Andrew made for all of us. We are able to enjoy visits to such beautiful places and incredible hikes because Andrew and his military brothers and sisters sacrificed themselves to let us keep our freedom.
From our family to yours, thank you all. Andrew’s story is one you can be proud of. I was proud to carry his stone with my family on a day I’ll never forget.
-Lynn Horr
Dear Quasnitscha family and friends,
Today I had the honor of carrying Andews stone for a very short walk to the new display case at the Bangor Public Library. I have read about Andrew and watched your video and couldn’t wait for today to come. I was torn as I was committed to be there for Andrew but also made a promise to my grandmother that when she passes to be the one to bathe her. I know I was a little sidetracked as I left her side to meet the summit project family but was quickly reminded and comforted that family is so important. I am so humbled to be a part of something so big as the summit project and the love and honor of your Marine. My grandmother waited for me to keep my promise to Andrew and then to be with her as she took her last breath. This is a day I will never forget and I will carry Andrews story with me always. Thank you for letting me be a part of Andrews continuing journey of helping others and honoring him in this very special way!
With much love,
Stephanie
That is very moving Stephanie. Sorry for your loss and thank you for honoring Andrew.
My name is GH Bragdon and I had the honor of carrying the stone and story of Lance Corporal Andrew J. Quasnitschka up Cadillac Mountain on October 1st 2016 along with other hikers as part of The Summit Project.
When Dave Cote invited me to take part in the event this year Iâll admit I wasnât sure what I was signing up for. I love being outdoors and I jumped at the opportunity to support a project dedicated to honoring Maineâs fallen heroes. At its face â it seemed like a great way of combining my love of hiking and my wish to provide service to my community. I was not prepared, nor do I think I could have been prepared, for the effect this project has had on me.
When I found out I would be carrying Andrewâs stone I started to learn more about him in order to properly carry his story. I did not choose Andrew Quasnitschkaâs stone, but as many people at The Summit Project have said, âsometimes the stone chooses us.â
I was immediately drawn to Andrew as a person. Listening to Andrewâs family I could feel the magnetism that drew people towards him and the respect that he commanded. I love stories â telling them, reading them, and especially hearing them. Two stories about Andrew stuck out to me as incredible examples of his character, personality, and life.
The first was a story about Andrew was about a vacation he and his family took to North Carolina when he was 12 years old. He was an avid fisherman and would spend all day down at the pier with all of the locals. Later when his family was going over the pictures from the trip Andrew noticed something peculiar about the photographs. Since he had spent so much time fishing with the locals – he wasnât in any of the family pictures!
The second was about Andrewâs high school football team. Andrew injured his shoulder during his junior year and it was enough that he would no longer be able to play. I think a lot of people, honestly myself included, would have taken the season off and waiting until the next year to get back onto the field. Andrew signed on as manager for the team and helped out in any way he could.
Two short stories arenât enough to sum up someone like Andrew Quasnitschka, but I truly believe they can give a glimpse into two important aspects of his character: his captivating personality and his unwavering sense of duty.
As the hike approached I worried a lot about whether I was prepared for the physical aspects of climbing Cadillac Mountain. I had been having issues with shin splints (a persisting problem), had rolled my ankle playing volleyball (probably my own fault), and hadnât been hitting the gym since I had recently lost my entry card (definitely my own fault). I worried about these things up until we started the hike and probably a little after. As we hiked along the trail â those worries faded. I started to think a lot about Andrew and how I could do my part to keep his memory alive. Andrew always fought for those who were bullied and cared those who were picked on â and this was a big part of why he joined the Marine Corps. Andrew also faced any challenge with an unmatched ferocity â sometimes just to prove that he could even if it ended with a trip to the emergency room. Andrew understood that sometimes the biggest obstacle we face is the perception of our own capabilities.
I havenât stopped thinking about Andrew since I left Acadia National Park. Andrew has inspired me to give back more. Heâs motivated me to push myself beyond my comfort zone. Most importantly, Andrewâs memory has provided me a constant reminder to always move forward and to work towards being better each day.
It was an honor and a privilege to carry Andrewâs stone. I will carry his memory and his legacy with me always.
GH
My name is GH Bragdon and I had the honor of carrying the stone and story of Lance Corporal Andrew J. Quasnitschka up Cadillac Mountain on October 1st 2016 along with other hikers as part of The Summit Project.
When Dave Cote invited me to take part in the event this year Iâll admit I wasnât sure what I was signing up for. I love being outdoors and I jumped at the opportunity to support a project dedicated to honoring Maineâs fallen heroes. At its face â it seemed like a great way of combining my love of hiking and my wish to provide service to my community. I was not prepared, nor do I think I could have been prepared, for the effect this project has had on me.
When I found out I would be carrying Andrewâs stone I started to learn more about him in order to properly carry his story. I did not choose Andrew Quasnitschkaâs stone, but as many people at The Summit Project have said, âsometimes the stone chooses us.â
I was immediately drawn to Andrew as a person. Listening to Andrewâs family I could feel the magnetism that drew people towards him and the respect that he commanded. I love stories â telling them, reading them, and especially hearing them. Two stories about Andrew stuck out to me as incredible examples of his character, personality, and life.
The first was a story about Andrew was about a vacation he and his family took to North Carolina when he was 12 years old. He was an avid fisherman and would spend all day down at the pier with all of the locals. Later when his family was going over the pictures from the trip Andrew noticed something peculiar about the photographs. Since he had spent so much time fishing with the locals – he wasnât in any of the family pictures!
The second was about Andrewâs high school football team. Andrew injured his shoulder during his junior year and it was enough that he would no longer be able to play. I think a lot of people, honestly myself included, would have taken the season off and waiting until the next year to get back onto the field. Andrew signed on as manager for the team and helped out in any way he could.
Two short stories arenât enough to sum up someone like Andrew Quasnitschka, but I truly believe they can give a glimpse into two important aspects of his character: his captivating personality and his unwavering sense of duty.
As the hike approached I worried a lot about whether I was prepared for the physical aspects of climbing Cadillac Mountain. I had been having issues with shin splints (a persisting problem), had rolled my ankle playing volleyball (probably my own fault), and hadnât been hitting the gym since I had recently lost my entry card (definitely my own fault). I worried about these things up until we started the hike and probably a little after. As we hiked along the trail â those worries faded. I started to think a lot about Andrew and how I could do my part to keep his memory alive. Andrew always fought for those who were bullied and cared those who were picked on â and this was a big part of why he joined the Marine Corps. Andrew also faced any challenge with an unmatched ferocity â sometimes just to prove that he could even if it ended with a trip to the emergency room. Andrew understood that sometimes the biggest obstacle we face is the perception of our own capabilities.
I havenât stopped thinking about Andrew since I left Acadia National Park. Andrew has inspired me to give back more. Heâs motivated me to push myself beyond my comfort zone. Most importantly, Andrewâs memory has provided me a constant reminder to always move forward and to work towards being better each day.
It was an honor and a privilege to carry Andrewâs stone. I will carry his memory and his legacy with me always.
Thank you so much for caring Andrew,s stone. Your determination is very similar to his!
I appreciate your commitment to TSP
This letter is to the family of U.S.M.C. LCpl Andrew Quasnitschka. I want to start by saying it was an amazing experience and it was an honor to carry Andrewâs stone. After reading Andrewâs story, I knew it was the perfect match. I am a former Marine myself and I just wanted you to know that Andrew was meant to be a Marine, his commitment to his High School football team after being injured, lets me know he was a true team player and that is what the Marine Corps was about.
This happened to be my first experience with the summit project and I didnât know what to expect. I was told that the Owl trail would be like a walk through the woods and there was nothing to it. I can tell you, it was more than just a walk through the woods. There were a couple times that I thought I was going to give up, but I knew that Andrew was with me, helping a fellow Marine complete the mission.
With the help of my hiking team and the drive to finish for Andrew, I was able to complete the hike. Because of Andrew, I have decided that I will be trying my best to participate in every TSP event.
Best regards,
Former SSgt of Marines Brian Brown
It is very special to hear that a former marine carried Andrew’s stone. He was so proud to be a marine!
Thank you for your service
Semper Fi
Dear family of Andrew,
I just finished hiking Table Rock Mountain with campers who all have a parent or sibling currently serving in the military. This is what one child had to say about carrying Andrew
“I liked how when I held the stone it felt like he was there with us. Also how I could feel the weight of the fallen soldier was a humbling experience. The struggle that I had was carrying the stone up the mountain, but now I know how his family felt when Andrew lost his life”.
I would like to personally thank you for sharing your son and his life with us and others who take part in this amazing program.
Dear Blake,
We cannot put into words how it feels that Andrew’s life is remembered.
Thank you for honoring him
I graduated from GHS with Ed. Ed was such an intelligent, kind, and handsome gentleman. I can see Ed’s resemblance in Andrew.
Please find peace knowing Andrew and Ed are together in a perfect place.
My sincere condolences,
Audrey Yellen Quinlan
Dear âQuasnellâ Family,
I hope this note finds you well and enjoying the last few warm days of summer. It has been far too long since Iâve last seen you all in person, but I am sure that Matt and I will find our way to Bridgton again very soon! We had the good fortune of spending time with Andrew and his Montauk beach stone recently. On Monday, September 11, 2017, we honored Maineâs fallen heroes with The Summit Project by doing a 9.4 mile ruck from the University of Southern Maineâs Portland campus to the Gorham campus. The clear skies and warm sun reminded us just how lucky we are to have Andrew and others who paid the ultimate sacrifice for us to enjoy days like that day.
Considering the date of our hike aligned with sixteen year anniversary of the September 11th attacks, the day had an added layer of emotions as we remembered those weâve lost. As each of us shared the stories of the stones we carried, we found that our lives and journeys are intertwined with extremely small degrees of separation. The shared experience created a common language among professors, community members, veterans, and administrators. The language broke down any walls or assumptions that we had about each other or the process, and I could help but think of Andrew and his ability to connect with any group he encountered. He was a magnet; a powerful force of competitive energy, witty comebacks, warm embraces, inside jokes, and belly laughs that drew all of us to him. We all knew him in different ways, but ultimately we knew him as the fun-loving, charismatic, young man who you always wanted on your side.
I marvel at the Lake Region community who consistently rallies around your family. I love that so many people I know still make their way to your home in Bridgton to eat the delicious home cooked meals, watch a Patriots game, do some skeet shooting, or just sit and have coffee. I know that it will continue because your family is so loving and Andrewâs memory is still very much alive in every story we share. Matt and I send our love and we canât wait to see you again!
Warmly,
Samantha Allen
Dear Samantha,
I don’t know if you know why Andrew enlisted in the marine corps but it was because of September 11th. So that you and Matt carried his stone on the anniversary of that day is so very special!
The support that the Lake Region community has displayed is so much more that I could have ever imagined and it means so much that you and Matt and others still come by. I feel his presence when any of you are here and it is a warm ,wonderful feeling !You all are very special to us and are welcome any time.
To Andrew’s Family,
It was a big honor carrying your sons stone. Andrew’s stone was my first stone that I carried for The Summit Project.
When getting to know Andrew, I found that we both had a love of football, fishing and the ocean. It made me think of memories that I shared with my family in Hawaii where I was born.
Andrew was a very brave man and I hope to be as brave as he was and have the qualities that he possessed. Thank you for letting me share Andrew’s story with my scout pack. I hope one day to meet and talk to you.
Thank You,
Xavier Age 10
Dear Xavier,
My family and I thank you so much for taking Andrew’s stone on a hike with your scout pack. He was a boy scout too and that along with football contributed to his love of the outdoors and taught him how to be a team player.
It sounds like you had a great experience with The Summit Project !!!
Thank you from the bottom of our hearts
Dear Quasnitschke Family,
Thank you for letting me learn about your son. I learned that we both love football, oceans and fishing. He was a good person and risked his life for our country. It was nice of him because if he didn’t go, we might not have the freedom that we do now.
We carried you son’s stone on Black Cap Mountain in New Hampshire on a Cub Scout Pack Hike.
Thank You,
Camden Age 10
Dear Camden,
Thank you for taking the time to learn about The Summit Project and Andrew and carrying his stone on your hike. He was a boy scout too where he learned about dedication , honor, and loyalty which is some of the reason why he decided to become a marine and defend our country.
It means so much to our family that you remembered Andrew and thought about him that day on your hike.
Semper Fi
As the marines always say:)
It means ” always faithful”
The Quasnitschka family
My name is Xavier Rowe. I am a sophomore in high school and it was a huge honor carrying the stone for LCpl Andrew J. Quasnitschka. My classmates and I hiked Tumbledown Mountain which is in Franklin County. Tumbledown Mountain had the most beautiful views I have ever seen and Iâm so glad that I was able to do it for Andrew J. Quasnitschka and carry on his legacy.
I’m so glad that I got to learn about him because I like the same things as he does such as football, the ocean, and fishing. When I got a third of the way up the mountain there was a pond and I went fishing. I didn’t catch anything but I thought it was cool carrying his stone up a mountain and doing something he loved to do which was fishing.
During his junior year of high school he hurt his shoulder and wasn’t sure if he was going to be able to play football again so the coaches thought he was going to quit the team but instead he became the team manager. I can relate with injuries because this year during football I tore my ACL and I had to have surgery and as of right not I’m not sure if I’m going to be able to play this year.
The summit project is an awesome way to not forget the people who have fallen. Once again this was a great honor to carry this stone and it was even better to learn about his story and legacy.
Sincerely, Xavier Rowe
My name is Chrissy LaCrosse and I had the honor of carrying the stone and story of Lance Corporal Andrew J. Quasnitschka up Cadillac Mountain on September 29th, 2018, as part of The Summit Project. This was my first hike with The Summit Project and I did not know what to expect. I went to the table and picked up my assigned stone. As other hikers came to pick up their assigned stones I noticed one stone left on the table. I was talking to our team lead when I found out that the person carrying Andrews stone was unable to make it, and she offered to carry a third stone (Andrews). For reasons unknown at the moment, I quickly and enthusiastically offered to carry his stone. Before she had time to really respond I swiped his stone off the table and stowed it away.
While others were preparing their gear and preparing for the journey up the mountain, I grabbed my phone and read as much of Andrews bio that I could find. I listened to the video you shared and read so much that I did not realize I was depleting my phone’s battery. I was only able to take a few pictures up the trail before I had to shut off my phone and save enough of the battery for sharing Andrewâs story at the top. I was saddened that I could not take the momentous pictures of all the places we hiked that day. In the end, I did not really need a camera. Every step with Andrewâs stone is forever engraved in my memory and most certainly will not be forgotten.
The day of the hike was perfect. The sun was shining, the temperature was ideal, and the company was perfect. The only worry was that I am not in the shape I use to be in. I was fearful of being a slowpoke and holding everyone up on the team. To my surprise, I found myself extremely energetic and wanting to go as fast as possible to the top. The only problem was that the ground was overgrown with tree roots that suck out and were quite wet from the recent rain. I lost my footing a few times and chuckled as I remembered the comments in your video about being fortunate that you all lived a ÂŒ mile away from the local hospital. Being on a mountain and miles from the nearest hospital, I found myself telling Andrew it was not a race and to slow it down. I told him I did not want to visit the hospital that day. I also told him I did not want to be committed to the psych ward because the rockâs spirit told me to go faster lol.
Halfway up the mountain and at the front of the group, I found myself slowing a bit. Not because I was tired (I was still full of energy) but because something was telling me to back up a bit. It was only a few minutes later I learned that a teammate was struggling. I overheard a few comments of people wanting to push forward and not wanting to stop so much. I am the type of person that is quiet and not outspoken in the least. All of a sudden I was very defensive and said: âWe all stick together, no man or woman is left behindâ. Another teammate spoke up and stated that we hike at the pace of the slowest person, and we WOULD wait. I remembered reading how he would always look after those who were picked on and bullied. It was in this moment I knew for sure Andrewâs spirit was with us.
Along the trail, there was a stopping point called Featherbed. Though we could not stop long, I found myself thinking Andrew would love it here. I could picture him stopping in his tracks to find the nearest fishing pole and spending hours fishing there. Fishing is one thing we had in common. I too found myself missing out on countless family adventures and photos because I wouldn’t leave my favorite fishing spot. When the company is good, and the fish are biting, I have, and still, do lose time. I am sure Andrew and I would have been great fishing buddies.
I was beyond honored to carry Andrews spirit stone to the top of Cadillac Mountain and am incredibly grateful for this amazing experience. I believe everything happens for a reason and am sure Andrews stone picked me to teach me to come out of my comfort zone and to speak up for what I believe in. Thank you for letting me carry Andrews spirit stone. I will make sure his story and memory are never forgotten and will keep him in my thoughts always.
Chrissy L.
Dear Quasnitschka family and friends,
My name is Selena, and I had the honor of carrying Andrewâs stone. Thank you for allowing me and others to share this honor, over the years and for years to come. This was my first hike with The Summit Project, and I knew that this year would be a little different. However, at the end of the day the most import part of this project and its mission were completed.
Hearing about Andrew and learning about him was a true honor. He was young charismatic and loved by many. Even now watching the video that you made for the project I find myself chuckling. To set the scene it was Sunday Morning. I was enjoying my first coffee of the day, my dog was on the porch sunbathing being a âporch puppyâ, the smell of coffee filled the house, and you could hear our neighbors chickens clucking away and turning over piles of damp leaves looking for bugs. I was smiling as you told different stories about Andrew, but the one that stuck with me the most was the story of him âburning rubberâ in the school parking lot. At the end when you talked about Andrewâs teammates and friends not giving him up to a coach. I laughed so hard; I had an embarrassing moment were I almost choked on my coffee. That story only added to the fact that Andrew was not only loved but respected by many.
Lastly, it warms my heart that some like Andrew, a large man, and âbad a**â Marine also loved Christmas, and cats. Andrew was a generous and caring person, and what better of a holiday, than Christmas, for someone with those traits. Christmas is also one of my familyâs favorite holidays, and we are not afraid to go all out with decorations, gifts, and food. I will be sure to think of him this year.
Selena
Dear Selena,
Thank you for your dedication and participation to TSP and for honoring Andrew . It mens so much to my family and myself.
With much appreciation,
Linda
Andrew’s mom
To the family of LCpl Andrew J. Quasnitschka
My name is Lillian and I am 7 years old. This was my first year with my own stone. I have things that I like that Andrew liked. I like what the ocean did to Andrewâs stone and think it was very neat. I like the ocean too. I like fishing and want to catch one soon. I am a girl scout kinda like Andrew was a boy scout. I donât like the Zoom meetings on the computer. I love going to scout camp. I think Andrew liked camp too. I go four-wheeling with my family. I like to get muddy. I hike a lot with my family. I donât like my friends being bullied either and I donât put up with it. I have a big brother who likes football too. I have a cat that I love very much and I LOVE Christmas! I like Andrew and I would have liked to have met him. He does not sound mean at all.
Love Lillian Schanz
Thank you Lillian for carrying Andrew’s stone and for learning about him. He would be very proud of you for only being 7 years old and carrying his stone!
Sincerely ,
Linda
Andrew’s mom
My name is Michelle Bouley and I had the honor of carrying Andrewâs stone. This was going to be a hike up Cadillac however, the weather was such that we ended up altering our plans and taking a hike out to Echo Lake. It was such a beautiful setting for my first time doing an even with The Summit Project. I am a full time working mother of 2 but still felt a connection to Andrewâs story. I grew up as one of 5 siblings same as he did and I lived in Windham, close to Bridgton.
I have spent a lot of time reflecting since learning about Andrewâs life and story. What he went through as a Marine in Afghanistan and you as a family to have lost him at the young age of 21.
I have brothers in the military and when I was learning about Andrewâs life I reached out to them for help. I felt like I really needed to make this different than the other times his stone had been carried and wanted to find more information. They helped me to realize that I donât have to know every detail about his life but give you a sense that Andrewâs name isnât forgotten.
I have a great deal of respect for Marine Lance Corporal Andrew Quasnitschka and it was my pleasure to share his story and I want you to know that I will continue to do so.
My name is Shalene Kirkley and I had the honor and privilege of carrying the stone and story of Marine Lance Corporal Andrew Quasnitschka. The stone is beautiful, and solid. Heavier and denser than it appears. Yet remarkably smooth – gentle slopes and curves, no jagged edges or sharp corners. Found on a beloved beach, it has been softened by the waves of time. Isnât it interesting how that same smoothness can represent youth? The weight of Andrewâs death too young. Thank you for sharing him with me.
Andrew will not be forgotten.
I am a member of the Veteran Employee Business Resource Group at LL Bean, Inc, Freeport, ME. I was honored to hike with Andrew at Winslow Park in Freeport. We had a glorious day for a hike, at the last moment, one of our carriers couldn’t come and Mark (my assigned stone) and I brought along another Marine’s Stone to remember, Andrew. The weight I carried was nothing compared to what Mark and Andrew’s families must face on a daily basis. While hiking, I took some time to be with others, and then be with only Mark and Andrew. My mantra was, thank you for your service, thank you for your sacrifice. We all have to remember, Freedom isn’t Free.
Dear Linda and Family, I need to thank you for the wonderful gift of getting to know your Andrew through the Summit Project. Their case has been on display at our Elks Lodge in Waterville, Maine for a couple of months, and every Friday two fallen heroes biographies were read. I had the privilege of reading Andrews, and many in the crowd had tears . I also carried his stone from Portland to Millinocket for the hike up the mountain. My friend and I travelled in a convoy of 100 motorcycles, mostly the Elks Riders, but, we were in her truck. It was no ordinary truck, but, a shiny black 1997 Chevy, with a V8, hood scoop, etc. You know, the kind of truck that gets everyones attention. Well, my friend and I talked to our beloved stones on the way to Millinocket, and I think both guys would have loved the truck. Not bad for a couple of grandmas! Seriously tho, this experience has taught me so much about their sacrifices and yours. Thank you for being a part of this fantastic program. What a wonderful way to keep Andrew alive in your hearts, by sharing him with others.
Dear Earlene,
Thank you so much for taking the time to get to know my son Andrew and for caring so much. A funny thing about the truck. Andrew had a 1966 black Chevy pickup which he loved! He called it the Black Dragon ” and we still have it!
I appreciate what you did not only for TSP but also For Andrew.
Keeping his memory alive means so much!
Semper fi
Linda
To the family of LCPL. Andrew J. Quasnitschka,
My name is Lilly and I am 12 years old. Yesterday was the first time I completed the Ruck for the Fallen at Pineland Farms in New Gloucester, Maine. I did this race with my two brothers (14, 10) and my Mom. It was interesting to learn how much Andrew loved fishing. My brother Kaleb loves to fish as well!!
It was an honor to carry the tribute stone throughout the 6.2 miles in remembrance of Andrew. There was a sign along the course where I was able to learn more about Andrew. I carried his stone the entire course and finished the ruck with Andrew.
Thank you for sharing your memories of Andrew with me. I will never forget this experience and I will keep you and your family in my thoughts and prayers forever.
Hi Lilly,
That was a really special thing that you did by carrying Andrew’s stone in the Ruck race and I will forever remember you for doing that!
Semper fi
Linda