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ANDREW N. PRATT

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United States Naval Academy

ANDREW PRATT Obituary

PRATT ~A Mighty Oak has Fallen ~ ANDREW NICHOLS PRATT "Nick" Colonel, USMC (Ret.) Andrew Nichols "Nick" Pratt, Colonel, USMC (Ret.) passed away on December 28, 2013, at the age of 65. Nick passed peacefully, surrounded by his loving wife and adoring daughters, cancer-free and like he lived his entire life, with tremendous courage and dignity. Born in Bethesda, Maryland to Captain William V. Pratt II and Jean H. Pratt, Nick joined a long line of distinguished military service men and women. He graduated from the United States Naval Academy in 1970, and was commissioned as a Second Lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps. Nick quickly came into his own as a natural-born leader, Marine and scholar. In 1979 he was awarded the Navy and Marine Corps medal for Heroism, risking his own life to save two badly wounded Lebanese civilians. Among many, his career highlights include service with the CIA Special Operations Group, Battalion Commander of 1/9 and Director of the Command and Staff College in Quantico, Virginia. Following his retirement from the Marine Corps in 1996, Nick continued to dedicate his life to the protection of innocents when he became a professor of strategy and international politics at the George C. Marshall Center in Garmisch, Germany. His professional passion culminated in the "Program on Terrorism and Security Studies', a course he founded and directed for nearly two decades. Some ten thousand students have passed through the PTSS; their knowledge and understanding gained under Nick's tutelage is shaping the future of their countries in combating terrorism. Nick took tremendous pride in both his students, and the course's global impact. In 2008, Nick took a brief leave to serve as the U.S. Special Envoy for Middle East Regional Security in Jerusalem and the West Bank, supporting U.S. efforts to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Nick taught and lived his life with unshakeable conviction and commanded great respect from his students, Marines, friends and family. Even greater than his outstanding mind was the genius of his heart. He saw potential in all those he instructed, and leading by example, pushed those around him to achieve success with the belief that you can do anything to which you set your mind. Nick will forever be remembered for his profound love of family, his faith, his patriotism, his brilliant mind, his handsome stature and his welcoming, twinkling eyes. He is survived by his best friend and wife of 34 years, Marianna M. Pratt; his four beloved daughters, Abigail V. Pratt, Sarah M.P. Fink, Susannah N. Pratt and Louisa V. Pratt; his sister Mary P. Holcomb; and adoring sons-in-law, nieces and nephews. His interment at Arlington National Cemetery will be held on Friday, April 4, 2014 at 11 a.m. In lieu of flowers, the Pratt family asks that you make donations to the Travis Manion Foundation, an organization whose mission Nick embodied: the fostering of strength of mind and body to create a generation of future leaders, devoted to selfless service, strong leadership, and courage.

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Published by The Washington Post on Mar. 30, 2014.

Memories and Condolences
for ANDREW PRATT

33 Entries

Derek Cooper

September 4, 2024

The last time I saw Nick was when he visited my mother Naomi (known to Nick and Mary as "Nono" I believe) many decades ago. Sadly, as both my mother and Capt and Mrs Pratt aged and passed we have lost contact with the family, but I have many fond memories of the stories my mother used to tell of her life with three Pratts and how she enjoyed her time with Nick and Mary.

John James Chapman III

March 24, 2023

I still remember the last time I saw him. We were in civilian clothes. It was a weekend at Matt Kane's Little Bit Of Ireland in Washington D.C. It was a popular place for Marines at MCB Quantico. I recognized him immediately even though I hadn't seen him in over three years. I introduced myself to him. I was a sergeant by then and he was a Captain. He had been a Second Lieutenant Platoon Commander in Hotel Company 2/9 at Camp Schwab in 1971 when I first saw him. I was a Pfc in Weapons Platoon and was frequently farmed out to his platoon. He was one of the finest officers that I ever had the privilege of serving with. He was highly respected by all the Marines that I knew. I cried like a baby when I saw a post on Facebook announcing his death. I have your family in my thoughts and prayers. Semper Fidelis.

Cpl Ron Hael

November 1, 2021

I served with Rambo, and knew Nick as Lt. Col. Back in the mid 1980's to 1990. The Colonel was a warrior, he reminded me of James Gardner the actor, but he was the real deal. Rip sir.

Carlos Arturo Flórez Gómez

March 24, 2020

Great officer and gentlemen!

John Chapman

March 25, 2019

I'm remembering him as I first met him; a second lieutenant platoon commander with Hotel Company 2nd Battalion 9th Marines, 3rd Marine Division on Okinawa in 1971. I was an 18 year old Pfc at the time I first met him. I would sometimes be assigned to his platoon with our rocket squad from weapons platoon. I remember how he cared for his Marines. That has left a lasting impression on me. I ran into him again between 1972-74 in D.C. I was stationed at TBS, Quantico and he was at 8th and I Street. I bumped into him at Matt Kane's Little Bit of Ireland, a popular Irish pub at 12th & M St. I believe he was a Captain by that time because I recall his promotion to 1st Lieutenant in 2/9. He was the kind of Marine officer that I would love to have served with at other duty stations. I stated in another post that I would follow him anywhere and that still holds true. Rest in peace Sir. Praying for your family and remembering you. Semper Fidelis.

Albion Bergstrom

April 9, 2014

It was truly an honor to get to know and serve with Nick and as one of those Army types we felt truly blessed that he was part of our lives. Our country has been strengthened by his service and he will be missed in so many ways. Our prayers are with Nick's family at this tough time and we give our thanks for their sharing of Nick with us. With great respect, Al Bergstrom

SGT T.M. jacobs

April 8, 2014

I knew him as 1st Lt at 8th and I. He was my platoon commander. He was a great guy and the leading example of professionalism in all respects. I would have thought he would go on forever. Semper Fi, Nick. They lost a great one in you.

John Reim, USMC

April 8, 2014

To The Pratt Family. Please accept my sincere and heartfelt condolences on the passing of Col. Andrew N. Pratt. He will be truly missed by all who knew and loved him! During his USMC career, Col. Pratt had been assigned to the Ceremonial Guard Company, Marine Barracks, 8th & I Sts., Wash., DC (the oldest post in the Corps). To learn more about that assignment, please visit our website, www.8thandi.com. Rest in peace, Col. Pratt! Well done, Marine!!!! John T. Reim, 8th & I, Silent Drill Platoon, 1958-1961 "Semper Fi"

My re-enlistment with The Colonel, 1996

Mike Yannutz

April 7, 2014

To the Pratt Family:
I was the Col's driver at Command & Staff College in 1994-95. The Col always treated me with respect and always sat up front when we drove. I remember he always used to ask me for a joke to tell if he was a guest speaker somewhere and then later tell me how it went. I will never forget his bike rides to many miles away, his Daihatsu Charade car that he had to warm up for 15 minutes before driving, and for the fact that he inspired me to stay in the Corps and go into the intel field. He re-enlisted me on top of a T-62 tank and we kept in touch since 1995 after I left Quantico. I also had the pleasure of his nephew, Croft, re-enlist me as well when he was one of our students going through intel school in VA Beach. It was a beautiful ceremony at Arlington and I am blessed that I was here in VA to attend. The old man was my Marine Corps father and I respected him as that. I was excited for his return this year so I could tell him my experiences. Two weeks after he passed, I remember clearly that he came to me in a dream. He was dressed in a full black suit and was pulling a small suitcase on roller wheels. I was showing him around where I worked and I think the premises of the dream was that I had to drive him somewhere one last time because we were scrambling... before I knew it he had already left. I believe it was him letting me show my experiences before he finally passed. If it wasn't for Nick, I truly know that I would not have been the Marine I am today, retiring after 21 years.

Parvaneh Koman

April 7, 2014

I interpreted Dari/English for a few PTSS courses and Colonel Pratt was incredibly good to work for. He appreciated the effort put into the job and I truly am thankful for his ecouraging remarks and his charming manner. I am very saddened that he passed away at such an early age. May his soul rest in peace. I will always remember him.

USMC 0311

April 7, 2014

GOD BLESS AND SEMPER FI.

Richard, Madeleine, Karl & Kenny Jaehne

April 6, 2014

Marianna and daughters
When our work on earth is finished God calls us home for our eternal rest.
May perpetual light shine upon him. God bless you all

Judy Sherman

April 5, 2014

I sat on many a chairlift with Nick as the Pratt women would speed past us down the mountain. An insightful, intelligent and oh so handsome Nick, he made those lift ride so enjoyable. He loved his family, adored my dear friend Mare and had such an amazing spirit. He is loved, he is missed, he is the unforgettable Nick Pratt. Much love and prayers, Judy

Mel Woliner

April 5, 2014

G-D rest your soul, and thank you for your service. I did not know you, Sir, but have the highest respect. May your family be blessed.

John Chapman

April 4, 2014

I am very sorry for your loss. I saw Col Pratt's picture on Facebook this evening and recognized him immediately. I served with him in H 2/9 on Okinawa in 1971. I remember his as a natural leader. He impressed me as a second lieutenant because no one had any cause to snicker about him behind his back. He was a good man and a good Marine. His 34 year marriage and helping raise four daughters speak volumes to his integrity and service. I would follow him anywhere. Words fall short. However hopefully you can take comfort in knowing that a Marine who knew him 43 years ago remembered him and still respects him. My deepest sympathies to you all. Semper Fi.

Ann Coakley Anderson

April 4, 2014

Marianna dear,
We only met Nick briefly but his loving heart and spirited presence left an indelible impression. I am so sorry for your loss. It is a great one indeed and please know that your family on earth is large and just as loving as Nick..we will all be there for you in the hard days ahead...amen

Anthony Milanes

April 3, 2014

Dear Pratt Family,

Colonel Pratt was a great leader who will not be forgotten by all of us. You are in my thoughts and prayers.

Very Respectfully & Semper Fidelis,
Anthony P. Milanes
SSgt USMC 1992-2004

July 26, 1995 MCCDC Quantico, CA

April 3, 2014

COL Tracy Roou

April 3, 2014

Nick Pratt will be missed by so many. He was a great American with much to be proud of, especially his amazing family of strong women.

David Litt

April 2, 2014

Nick's legacy is deep, wide and long-lasting. He inspired by example: his integrity, courage, faith, and honesty were on display for all to see. Always. In our fondest memories of our time at the Marshall Center, Nick is always there. Beatrice and I join the many other who offer you, Marianna and your daughters, our deepest condolences.

Ginny Macaulay

April 2, 2014

Dear Pratt Family,
Our hearts go out to you during this difficult time. Nick was such a great guy.
You are in our thoughts and prayers.
Love, David, Ginny and Casey

John Jordan

April 1, 2014

Marianna and daughters. Anna and I are thinking of you at this most difficult time.

John

Heather Warren

March 31, 2014

Marianna and daughters, so sorry for you loss. I remember the first time I met Nick and turned to my companion and said " He is a retired marine? He is exactly what I think of when I picture a Marine". Semper Fi.

March 31, 2014

Marianna and Daughters,
You father was a special friend to Ann and me and a great leader of Marines. I will always remember the times serving with him in 1st Marines. He made those senior to him and junior to him better leaders of men. He will be remembered.
With the warmest regards,
Jim and Ann McClung

Bill Moore

March 31, 2014

A great friend, prank partner, and leader at school, a wonderful father and brother-in-law, a devoted husband, and a true patriot and defender of freedom. You were a model of courage and strength in the midst of trials. You are sorely missed by all the family.

a studly Marine major, somewhere in the vic of the Afghan-Pak border, sometime in the 1980s . . .

Bob Mathers

March 31, 2014

You were an inspiration for how to live, love and work - from when we first met in 2001 until working together these past years, and will always remain so.
RIP and Semper Fi, Nick
COL Bob Mathers

Steve Monaco

March 31, 2014

I first met Nick when I interviewed for a faculty position at the Marshall Center. We briefly worked together after I started at the center and ended up sitting in the office next door to Nick. I am grateful that I had enough time with Nick to learn from his passion for both the PTSS program and the Marshall Center; while at the same time deeply saddened at his passing. A good American, a true patriot, a gifted counterpart to all--domestic and international. Rest in Peace.

Daryl DeSimone

March 31, 2014

Nick will always be sorely missed by his PTSS Team. We will continue your great work in the best way we know. You made me a better person and a better Marine... Semper Fidelis and rest easy.

March 30, 2014

I am so sorry for your loss. May you find comfort in family, friends and prayer (Psalm 65:2) during this difficult time.

Bill Parrish

March 30, 2014

One of the best in every measurable standard. A great Marine and true friend who will never be forgotten. Semper Fi Nick

Dick Vercauteren

March 30, 2014

A great Marine and a superb person. Nick exemplified the meaning of courage,commitment and dedication to duty. You have made a great impact on Marines, and students in your PTSS program. Rest in peace, my friend. Dick Vercauteren, Brigadier General, USMC ret.

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