In Memory of 2nd Lieutenant Andrew Jacob Torres
August 1,1980 - April 3, 2004

2nd Lt. Andrew Jacob Torres, USMC, died on April 3, 2004, at USC Norris Comprehensive Cancer Center in Los Angeles, California, following a courageous battle with cancer. His parents, Leonard and Anita (Brenner) Torres; sister Rachel Torres, and girlfriend, Ens. Ana Ortiz, USN, were at his bedside. Andrew was 23 years old.

Born at Huntington Memorial Hospital in Pasadena, California on August 1, 1980, Andrew became interested in military service because his father served as a Marine officer with Force Recon in Vietnam and his great-uncle, also a Marine, fought in the Battle of Iwo Jima during WW II.

Andrew attended local schools beginning with Pacific Oaks Childrens School through kindergarten, followed by La Canada and Palm Crest Elementary Schools. He participated in AYSO, LC Junior Baseball and Cub Scouts, and studied piano and violin.

Andrew attended Flintridge Preparatory School from 7th through 12th grades. He earned varsity letters in football, soccer and track and was a goalkeeper for El Club Deportivo de Morazon, an adult Central American League soccer team, based in Los Angeles. Andrew was an active member of Boy Scout Troop 398, and achieved the rank of Eagle and was a lifetime member of the National Eagle Scout Association. He was also a member of the Order of the Arrow.

In his Senior year at Prep, Andrew received a Congressional appointment to the United States Naval Academy from former Congressman James Rogan. While at the United States Naval Academy, Andrew played intramural sports, including soccer, field ball and rugby. He was assigned to 11th Company for the first two years and to 23rd Company for the last two. Andrew graduated with the Class of 2002, with a B.S. in History. He roomed with LtJG Daniel "Gunny" Floyd, USN and LtJG Kurt "Nick" Fredland, USN for all four years.

At graduation, Andrew was commissioned into the United States Marine Corps as a Second Lieutenant. For the remainder of his life, Andrew served as an assistant to the Senior Marine at the Naval Academy. "Lt. Torres was an inspiration to all those who came in contact with him," said Major Greg Boll, USMC, United States Naval Academy. "He loved being a Lieutenant in the Marine Corps and although only commissioned for two years, he had an extraordinary impact on the personnel he was stationed with. His loss will be felt by all those here at the Naval Academy."

On 9 April 2004, Andrew was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

Known for his charm, wit, and positive attitude, Andrew made a lasting impression on all who met him. He was devoted to his family and friends. In addition to his parents and sister, all La Canada residents, Andrew is survived by his paternal grandmother, Charlotte Torres of Santa Paula, California, numerous aunts, uncles, cousins and countless friends, including his classmates from the Naval Academy and Flintridge Preparatory School.

A memorial service was held at the United States Navy Chapel on 8 April 2004. Andrew was buried at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale, California on 9 April 2004.