House Passes Joyce Bill Honoring Local Hero

WASHINGTON – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed H.R. 3275, legislation introduced by Congressman Dave Joyce(OH-14) to rename the United States Post Office in Grand River after the late Lance Corporal Andrew Nowacki. Lance Corporal Nowacki – known as Andy or Ace to those in the Grand River community – was killed in action on February 26, 2005 while protecting his fellow Marines during his second tour of duty in Iraq. He was 24 years old.

“Andy’s commitment to community, dedication to service and desire to help others is something we should forever honor, and his sacrifice is something we should never forget,” said Joyce. “By renaming the Grand River Post Office after him, we can help ensure Andy will forever be remembered by the community he cared so deeply for and contributed so much to. I thank my colleagues here in the House for helping me preserve the legacy of a true American patriot and urge my colleagues in the Senate to do the same.”

Andy graduated from Brush High School in 1998 and joined the Marine Corps Reserve shortly thereafter. He later attended the Cleveland Heights Police Academy, joining the Grand River Police Department in 2001. Always looking to protect and serve his community, Andy was a dedicated member of the Ready Response Team, the Honor Guard and the Bike Patrol. Andy’s enlistment was almost over when his unit was recalled for a second tour in Iraq. Despite not having to, Andy reupped without hesitation. Following his death, Andy’s family and friends created the Andy Nowacki Foundation, which provides scholarships for those seeking to serve in the fields of public safety or nursing. To this day, the foundation continues to honor Andy’s commitment to community, dedication to service and desire to help others by aiding those who wish to do the same.

To watch Joyce’s remarks about Andy prior to the vote, click here.

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