My name is Michael, and I proudly served in the United States Army for 22 years. My military career was built on leadership, service, and a commitment to helping others. I enlisted in the Army in 1976 in San Diego, California. Before beginning my military journey, I married my wife and then reported to the Military Entrance Processing Station (MEPS) in Los Angeles. From there, I attended Basic Training at Fort Dix, New Jersey, where I volunteered for Airborne School.
After completing Basic Training, I attended Advanced Individual Training (AIT) at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. Initially, I received orders for Korea, but those orders were corrected because I was scheduled to attend Airborne School. Following Airborne training, I was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg in May 1977.
I began my Army career as a 52B Generator Operator/Mechanic in the communications section of the 1st Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division. From 1977 to 1979, I supported communications operations before transferring to the motor pool, where I took responsibility for generator maintenance. My military occupational specialty later changed to 63B Wheeled Vehicle Mechanic. Through hard work and dedication, I advanced to the position of Motor Sergeant and served in that role until 1986.
From 1986 to 1988, I served with the 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment. Looking for new challenges and overseas experience, I requested an overseas assignment and attended the Noncommissioned Officer Education System before being assigned to the 293rd Engineer Battalion in Baumholder, Germany. There, I served as the Motor Sergeant for Bravo Company and later Headquarters and Headquarters Company from 1988 to 1990.
After my tour in Germany, I attended the Senior Noncommissioned Officer Course and returned to Fort Bragg. I served as Motor Sergeant for Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, until 1994. I was then selected to serve as First Sergeant for Bravo Company, 307th Forward Support Company, a position I held until retiring from the Army in 1998.
While serving on active duty, I also taught collision repair courses part-time at night at Fayetteville Technical Community College from 1982 to 1988. Teaching became a passion of mine, and I enjoyed helping others develop skills that could support their careers.
After retiring from the Army, I continued my education at Fayetteville Technical Community College. I earned a diploma in Collision Repair and Finishing as well as associate degrees in Automotive Technology and Machining Technology. In 2000, I began working for Crown Ford as a diesel technician while continuing to teach at FTCC in the evenings. In 2010, I was recruited by FTCC to become a full-time instructor, giving me the opportunity to continue mentoring students and preparing them for successful careers.
My passion for working on cars began when I was nine years old and has remained with me throughout my life. What started as a childhood interest became both a career and a way to teach and mentor others.
After retiring from the Army, I was diagnosed with several health conditions, including Stage 1 Chronic Kidney Disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, hypothyroidism, and high cholesterol. Over time, my kidney disease progressed and eventually led to kidney failure. I began dialysis in 2021 and ultimately retired from teaching because of my health challenges. While I believe my kidney disease may be connected to my service during the Gulf War, it was never diagnosed while I was on active duty. Despite these challenges, I continue to move forward with determination and gratitude.
Family has always been one of the most important parts of my life. I am the proud father of three children, two daughters and one son, and a loving grandfather. In 2006, my family experienced the heartbreaking loss of my youngest daughter after she returned home from dialysis treatment. Her memory remains close to my heart and continues to inspire me every day.
Throughout my life, whether serving my country, teaching students, working on vehicles, or facing health challenges, I have tried to live by the values of service, perseverance, and dedication. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had, the people I have met along the way, and the family that continues to support me on this journey.
We need you to help us support Michael. Whether through spreading the word on social media or considering becoming a donor, you can make a profound impact!
Living kidney donation has been proven to be safe. There are no long term consequences to the donor. After recovery, donors can live a normal life with one kidney.
DOVE will assist all prospective donors throughout the process and make sure they do not incur any out-of-pocket expenses related to the evaluation or surgery.
Please click on the link below if you would like to learn more OR call (551) 233-1611.