Andrew Lofton, 23, an Oak Harbor resident, died of injuries suffered in an automobile accident Nov. 14, 2004. He was born in Princeton, Ind., and enlisted in the Navy right after graduation from high school in July 1999.

He first attended Recruit Training at Great Lakes, followed by NATTC Pensacola, orders to USS Enterprise (CVN 65) from October 1999 to October 2002 and NATTC Pensacola for Aviation Electronics Technician “A” School from November 2002 to May 2003.

He then reported to NAMTRAU Whidbey, earning Naval Enlisted Classification 6633.

He reported to AIMD Whidbey Island as a member of the Sea Operational Detachment in September 2003. He deployed on the USS Enterprise again from May to July of this year.

Among his awards were Enlisted Aviation Warfare Specialist, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Navy Unit Commendation, Enterprise Operations Blue Jacket of the Quarter for August 2001 and Enterprise AIMD Sailor of the Month for June 2002.

Andy loved to spend hours casting his line for salmon and four-wheeling with his friends. A dedicated Sailor, he kept a mission first attitude. His shipmates will miss him.

Surviving him are his mother, Catherine Stricklin, and father, Gary Lofton, both of Hazelton, Ind.