It is with deep sadness that I share some devastating news from the USGLC family.

Andrew Kraus, who served as Director of Veterans Outreach at USGLC, died in the U.S. Army Special Operations helicopter crash late last week with three other servicemembers near Joint Base Lewis-McChord in Washington State.

This tragic loss is beyond heartbreaking for Andrew’s family and is a deep loss of one our nation’s finest.

Andrew’s professionalism, commitment to service, and his love of country shone through every aspect of his life and work. His confidence and dedication came from an unmatched depth of character and patriotism.

As we worked to build USGLC’s Veteran for Smart Power initiative in its early days a decade ago, it was clear that Andrew was the next and right leader to take the helm of our veteran program in 2016. The trust that he held with servicemembers and veterans was apparent in every relationship and connection he built all across our country.

His commitment to help protect our nation was demonstrated through every aspect of his work – whether making the case for diplomacy and development or the need for supporting our nation’s servicemembers and veterans.

I also knew that as USGLC we couldn’t keep him forever as he heeded the call to serve our country once again back in 2017, as he joined the Army after previously serving in the Marines prior to his time with USGLC.

As we all grieve the loss of Andrew, our nation is safer and stronger because of his service and ultimate sacrifice. May his memory be a blessing.

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