American Legion Post 117 is named for Captain Andrew Pearson US Army who was killed in action April 30, 2008. Andrew “Drew” was a graduate of Billings Senior High School Billings, Montana.

Drew began his Army career at Fort Lewis Washington. With a lot of hard work and endorsements by his base commander and Montana Senator Max Baucus, he received an appointment to West Point Military Academy and graduated in 2001. Shortly after his graduation Drew married Jon Marie and they with their three children moved to his next duty station in Hawaii. While there, Drew and Jon were blessed by the birth of a son Kristopher James.

Drew served One tour of duty in Afghanistan and two tours in Iraq. On his second tour in Iraq Drew was Company Commander of the H&H Company, 1st Battalion, 22nd Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division from Fort Hood Texas. His mission was to educate and support the Iraqi forces. While part of a convoy Drew's vehicle was hit by an improvised explosive device and he and Spc. Ronald J. Tucker were killed.

Drew loved Montana. Hunting, fishing and bike riding were a few of his favorite pastimes. He lived life to the fullest and was a true patriot and hero. The founders of American Legion Post 117 are honored to name our post after Captain Andrew Pearson.