United States Army Capt. Andrew Michael Pedersen-Keel was born on June 8, 1984, in South Miami, Florida, and grew up in several Connecticut communities including Wallingford, Canton, and Madison. His early life was marked by remarkable energy, leadership, and compassion. At Avon Old Farms School, where he graduated in 2002, Andrew excelled as a multi-sport athlete (football, lacrosse, and wrestling) and served as editor of the school newspaper. He was remembered by classmates and faculty as charismatic, enthusiastic, and dedicated to fostering community and teamwork in everything he pursued.

After high school, Andrew continued his education and leadership path at the United States Military Academy at West Point, earning a Bachelor of Science in American Legal Studies in 2006 and receiving his commission as an Infantry Officer. His early Army career included the Infantry Officer Basic Course and elite training such as U.S. Army Ranger School at Fort Benning, Georgia, establishing the foundation for his future roles in combat leadership.

Assigned first to the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division (Light) at Fort Hood, Texas, Andrew deployed to Afghanistan in June 2008, serving with A Company, 2nd Battalion, 2nd Infantry Regiment as a platoon leader and later with B Company, where he led his troops through more than 150 combat foot patrols and multiple air assault operations in the fierce terrain and climate of Kandahar Province. His leadership under fire, tactical skill, and commitment to mission and men reflected the highest standards of his profession.

After returning to the United States, Capt. Pedersen-Keel continued his military advancement. He completed the Maneuver Captain’s Career Course, volunteered for and finished the Special Forces Assessment and Selection Course, and then graduated from the Special Forces Qualification Course later in 2011. Following this achievement, he served as a Special Forces Detachment Commander with Company B, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne) based at Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

In August 2012, Andrew began another deployment to Afghanistan in his role as detachment commander of a Special Forces Operational Detachment-Alpha (ODA). On March 11, 2013, while concluding a patrol briefing in Wardak Province, Afghanistan, an individual inside an Afghan security forces vehicle opened fire, mortally wounding Capt. Pedersen-Keel; he lost his life while serving at 28 years old.

Across his career, Capt. Pedersen-Keel earned many military awards and decorations that reflected his dedication and competence, including three Bronze Star Medals, the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal with two campaign stars, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Expert Infantryman Badge, Ranger Tab, Special Forces Tab, Pathfinder Badge, Parachutist Badge, Air Assault Badge, and other honors recognizing both valor and professional excellence.

Beyond his military accomplishments, Andrew was known for his love of challenge and connection — in athletics, academics, travel, friendships, and service. He cherished time with family and friends, took joy in exploration and learning, and approached each task with a blend of humility and intensity that inspired those around him.

To honor his life, service, and sacrifice, Andrew is remembered in many ways:

• Burial with full military honors at Arlington National Cemetery, affirming his place among the nation’s honored service members.
• The Captain Andrew Pedersen-Keel Memorial Highway on Route 79 in Madison, Connecticut, dedicated in his honor.
• Annual community events commemorating his service, including races and ruck marches that support veterans and families through his legacy.

Most notably, his parents established APK Charities, a nonprofit organization created to honor Andrew’s memory and support active, retired, wounded, and fallen service members and their families. Through events such as the APK 5K Road Race & 5K Ruck March, the foundation raises awareness and resources to assist veterans and charitable causes in his name.

Dates:
• Birth: June 8, 1984 — South Miami, Florida (raised in Connecticut)
• Angelversary: March 11, 2013 — Wardak Province, Afghanistan

Service & Achievements:
• United States Army Captain, Company B, 1st Battalion, 3rd Special Forces Group (Airborne)
• Infantry Officer and Special Forces Detachment Commander
• Completed specialized courses including Ranger School, Special Forces Qualification Course, Airborne, Air Assault, and more
• Three Bronze Star Medals, Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Combat & Expert Infantryman Badges, Ranger & Special Forces Tabs, and other decorations

United States Army Capt. Andrew Michael Pedersen-Keel’s life stands as a testament to leadership, sacrifice, and enduring devotion to country and community. His legacy continues to inspire those who serve and those who benefit from the causes he helped shape.

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