Cpl. Andrew West, 22, of Van Horne, Iowa died in a motorcycle crash outside of Camp Pendleton in Riverside on Sunday, August 20th.
The Central Iowa Sea Cadets posted the following on Facebook:
“It is with enormous sadness that we announce the death of CPL Andrew West, USMC. CPL West was a fine Marine and Cadet Chief Petty Officer alumnus of the Central Iowa Division of the Naval Sea Cadet Corps. CPL West was an infantryman and a MCIWS (Marine Corps Instructor of Water Survival). CPL West sustained severe injuries during a motorcycle accident in California Sunday. Heroic efforts to revive him and sustain life at the scene were not successful.
This tragedy is a moment to reflect on the great wonder of life and in particular of Andrew’s.
A heartbreaking event like this touches all members of our cadet and alumni community, and we encourage people to find the support needed. We encourage all who knew CPL West to reach out to one another at this difficult time and to continue to share condolences and show support for CPL West’s family and friends. You may also find it helpful to be in touch with your loved ones outside the cadet community; they can be of great support. Clergy, chaplains, friends, family, and mental health specialists can be great sources of comfort and support as well.
CPL West’s family is in the midst of making celebration of life arrangements. Messages for the family can be left on Andrew’s Facebook page (profile name: Andrew West). Cards for the family may be sent to The Family of Andrew West, 107 2nd St, Van Horne, IA, 52346.
On behalf of the Central Iowa Division, we extend our deepest sympathies and condolences. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family and friends of CPL Andrew West at this difficult time.
Sincerely,
LCDR Eric Goslinga, NSCC
