LCDR Andrew D. LaMorie, US Navy

Last Chance Ranch Memorial Fund

             On February 21, 2007, LCDR Andrew Denis LaMorie died while stationed overseas serving as the Port Operations Officer, Commander, Fleet Activities, Yokosuka, Japan.  LCDR LaMorie was a graduate of the United States Naval Academy, Class of 1993.  He had an avid love for animals, especially those who were abused, abandoned and neglected.  While growing up in various parts of the West Coast and finally settling in Phoenix, Arizona LCDR LaMorie often accompanied his family to horse auctions, bidding on the most unfortunate horses who appeared to be “lost causes”.  These horses seemed to then thrive under LCDR LaMorie’s care once given love and medical attention. Being of Native American background, LCDR LaMorie embraced the role, spiritual connection and respect of animals expressed throughout the Native American culture.

            LCDR LaMorie had an overall altruism to animals.  While stationed in Norfolk, Virginia, as a young Navy Ensign, LCDR LaMorie and his wife rescued two dogs, one from the local pound and one from the street, who was a stray.  The dogs were appropriately and affectionately named “Captain” (yellow lab/shepherd mix) and “Middie” (black beagle mix, name short for “Midshipman”).  The two dogs were quickly indoctrinated into the family.  Three days after the birth of The LaMorie’s second child, LCDR LaMorie faced the difficult and heart-wrenching decision to euthanize their beloved Captain, only after six short years.  Captain battled chronic renal failure bravely for 7 months and upon his return from the veterinarian, LCDR cried as if he had lost a child.    

            LCDR Andrew D. LaMorie was buried at Arlington National Cemetery with Full Military Honors on March 15, 2007.   He is survived by his wife, Jill A. LaMorie and his children, Madeline (10) and Alexander (6) of Flourtown, PA.  LCDR LaMorie passed his love and care of animals onto both of his children.  His daughter, Madeline, has a special love of horses, and is currently a volunteer at Last Chance Ranch.  This Memorial Fund was opened up by his children in tribute to their father’s memory and service to our country and earth’s animals.