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1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill
1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill
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Michael S. Barnhill Obituary
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Dale Yee
June 13, 2024
1st. Sgt., just wanted to know I was thinking about you today. You never know why a memory of someone pops into your mind sometimes, but you did and I had to tell you some how. You left a lasting impression on me, even if you didn't know it at the time. Semper Fi.
Sgt. Yee
Bill Denton Sgt USMC/ C/O Mcsp
May 23, 2024
Brother Friend and Partner.Semper Fi
chris vassar
November 9, 2023
Happy Marine Corps birthday brother. I think about you everyday. I miss your leadership and your honesty. You made an immediate impact in my life. One that will last a lifetime. We´re doing the Marine corps birthday tomorrow and will remember you in thought and words. Rest easy and Godspeed Marine.
Q Madp
November 7, 2023
Thank you for your service and sacrifice. Not forgotten here!
https://iraqwarheroes.org/barnhillm.htm
Q
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Thomas Bear
November 10, 2020
Mike this is Tom Bear I truly miss you I think about you almost every day we had great times on SERT at Mule Creek State Prison:
Steve Richardson
November 9, 2020
Thank you for your service 1st Sgt Barnhill. May god bless you and your family, I thank you for your sacrifice to our nation and freedom. I just moved to Northern CA part as an Air Force assignment and I’m honored to frequent an area where a true hero is from. Thank you! God bless. Steve
Kimberly
May 25, 2020
Thinking of you, Mike, Joanna and your kids all grown now on Memorial Day and just a few days shy of 15 years since your passing. My husband Dave served at MTM Sacramento until 2001 with Mike whos service and sacrifice has stayed with us both these 15 years. You are not forgotten.
Tammy Schuster (Chapman)
May 24, 2015
Thinking of you and Joanna today; I will never forget when I saw your name in the newspaper that day. (I used to work with Joanna at the YMCA in Lakewood) I will never forget either of you, and pray for Joanna and your kids often.
Joanna Barnhill
May 19, 2015
To my love here it is another year gone by and I am still so missing you so much I wish that I could just hold you love you just once again you are a wonderful husband father and friend I love you so very much ❤
Joanna Barnhill
August 20, 2013
To my soul mate I miss you so very much I love you with all my heart
Joanna barnhill
Peggy Childers
May 28, 2013
To the family and friends of 1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill:
It has truly been my honor to sign Michael's guest book these past few years. Unfortunately, due to complications from my Multiple Sclerosis, this may be the last message I'm able to write. Please forgive me and know that Michael will always be remembered in my home.
With love and respect ~ Peggy
Andrew Wollam
January 1, 2013
You were bringing us mail to our FOB. You cared about us more than anyone else. You worked tirelessly for us. For that and so much more we love you forever. Always in our minds RIP Anvil.
Amanda gregor
December 20, 2012
To the best role model I have ever met. U would be so proud of your kids they are my inspiration now. I miss u mike but I will see u again. I know its been 7 years but it feels like just yesterday u were here keeping my brother in check. Or u where in our 6th grade class sharing pics of Afghanistan. I miss u R.I.P. MIKE
Thomas Bear
May 29, 2012
You will always be missed and never forgotten. Much love my brother, please allow me admittance when I arrive at the pearly gates. See you there.
Peggy Childers
May 27, 2012
May 28, 2012
To the family and friends of 1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill:
Always remembering Michael. "Some gave all."
May 15, 2012
As the 7th anniversary of his passing approaches, please be aware that he is still honored and respected even by those who did not know him personally.
Thomas Bear
June 10, 2011
I just found this site and I finally can say good bye to a Marine brother and a co operator on SERT at Mule Creek State Prison. Thank you for your ultimate price in keeping us all safe. Semper fi my brother, Semper fi.
Bruce Riggs
May 31, 2011
Mike, I miss you my old friend. Semper Fi.
Peggy Childers
May 28, 2011
To the family and friends of 1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill:
Please accept my remembrance of Michael on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Elizabeth Raab
January 15, 2011
Your legacy will forever live on in the hearts of those who knew you and shared in your struggle to protect our country and the ultimate sacrifice you gave so that we can be grateful for what we have. Your family, friends, loved ones and fellow soldiers will stay in my thoughts and prayers.
A Proud Military Mom.
Peggy Childers
May 29, 2010
To the family and friends of 1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill:
Remembering Michael on the anniversary of his passing. May our fallen heroes never be forgotten!
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Steven Benson
May 28, 2010
Thanks Mike! You taught me a lot about what it is to be a Marine. You also showed me that it's OK to be a goofball off duty and a defender of our Nation on duty. You'll always be missed and remembered Brother. Ooh RAH! Semper Fi.
Bruce Riggs
November 5, 2009
MIke and I were stationed in Sacramento together for a couple years, then we were together again in 4th Force Recon. The last time I saw him was at Camp Pendleton a day or so before we deployed to Kuwait. We had just enough time to catch up on families growing up, our personal lives, and to wish each other safe passage during our tour. I really regret not spending time with him after our return. I wish I could have been with him on his second tour.
God bless you my brother, and may god always protect you. Semper Fi
Kenna Larra
June 23, 2009
”Honor and Remember” - “Project Compassion” We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families of our fallen heroes. War does not discriminate – It breaks our hearts to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,600 portraits have been completed and shipped to the parents and or spouse - at no cost as this is a gift from one American to another!
Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com . If you have already had a portrait completed, we pray that you are enjoying the portrait and God Bless You.
Sincerely and Respectfully,
Kenna
brandon sexton
June 8, 2009
knowing him was a honor he was a seocnd father teaching me about soccer my first year never playing before i thank him very much and know he watching over everyone right now mike i never told you but i love you and thank you!
Peggy Childers
May 28, 2009
To the family of 1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill:
Michael gave the ultimate sacrifice and will be held in the hearts of Americans forever. I cannot and will not let our fallen heroes be forgotten. My deepest sympathy to you. "Some gave all."
Peggy Childers
"Don't Let The Memory Of Them Drift Away"
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Sgt. Dan Groff
May 25, 2009
I served with Mike at the Sacramento Reserve unit from 89' to 98'. He ran a tight ship. He came to us as a Corporal and left a GySgt. Very impressive. On this Memorial Day I remember all of my fallen friends.
Safely Home
Michael Iezzi
November 5, 2008
Michael,
Happy belated birthday in Heaven. May God hold you in the palm of His hand.
In Memory of Michael ~ (Debra Estep)
May 28, 2008
Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers.
The Wind on The Downs
“I like to think of you as brown and tall,
As strong and living as you used to be,
In khaki tunic, Sam Brown belt and all,
And standing there and laughing down at me.
Because they tell me, dear, that you are dead,
Because I can no longer see your face,
You have not died, it is not true, instead
You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe;
I hear you laughing as you used to do,
Yet loving all the things I think of you;
And knowing you are happy, should I grieve?
You follow and are watchful where I go.”
(Written by Marian Allen during World War l )
Two lines that I wish you to keep near your heart…….
“You seek adventure in some other place.
That you are round about me, I believe”
I did not know Michael, but I am remembering
his service. He is my hero. !
~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~
The Other Side
i'm over on the other side
where life and death softly divide.
left my skin and bones behind
now i'm over on the other side.
can you feel me there with you?
my breath is gone but i'm not through.
loved you then and i still do
from over on the other side.
i can fly. really fly.
below the earth ... all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
it's good here on the other side.
the sweetest songs...the bluest skies.
thank you for the tears you cried
but it's good here on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth...all through the sky.
tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side
the world is smaller than a needle's eye.
where life and death softly divide.
when you leave your skin and bones behind
i'll be waiting on the other side.
i can fly. really fly. below the earth ... all through the sky.
go tell em all i did not die.
i'm just over on the other side.
Song lyrics by Don Conoscenti
C Desert Muse/SESAC
www.donconoscenti.com
(Used with permission)
“I hope it brings great comfort to any and all.
Peace on you. DonCon” 4-2008
Visit this link to hear the song.
The Other Side –
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol
Sincerely,
Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL
Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55
Angel and soldier drawing I have shared here.
http://tinyurl.com/6gey8b
the Buck family
May 19, 2008
To the family and friends of 1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill, our thoughts and prayers are with you in your loss. What he has done for our freedom will not be forgotten. May God bless and comfort your family.
May 4, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you 1st Sgt Barnhill!
Former SGT Chris Vassar
March 12, 2008
i served with 1st sgt barnhill on our first tour to iraq. i remember when he came to our unit. we were pretty locked on as far as our honor, pride and family of marines at our unit was concerened. but he brought something with him that we lacked and that was the old corps way. an attitude that only marines who haven't been affected by bueracracy and politics. he trained our unit in the new hand to hand combat. i was 25 then. and ill tell you what i havent worked that hard since my days of playing high school football or even bootcamp for that matter.
He was trully a marines marine. willing to lend an ear or words of advice. he would push you down and pick you back up.
I will always respect 1st sgt barnhill and i will never forget him.
Semper fidelis brother marine.
Michael iezzi
November 5, 2007
Michael,
Happy Belated Birthday in Heaven. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
August 11, 2007
My heart aches for your loss..
God Bless the Barnhill family!
He will be sadly and forever missed! He is a HERO!
Hugs~ Jamie ( Navy wife)
marinecomfortquilts.us
Tony Hughes
August 11, 2007
Mike,
While we were working side-by-side at our karate school you helped me with more than our martial arts material; you taught me more about life and how to live it to the fullest than anyone ever has and ever will. You always made a joke about the most irritating moments. For example, one time one of your exercise bands broke, and you said "It BWOKE!" For that, and so much more you will be remembered always.
Henryk Zaleski (USN-Ret)
August 11, 2007
Rest in peace among the stars so far away.
SHIRLEY DONEY
August 10, 2007
REST IN PEACE MICHAEL, TO YOUR FAMILY AND FRIENDS MAY THE MEMORIES OF THIS WONDERFUL SOLDIERS LIFE FILL YOUR HEARTS WITH BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES
GOD BLESS YOU
Michael iezzi
August 10, 2007
Father we entrust our brother Michael to your mercy. You loved him greatly in this life: now that he is freed from all its cares, give him happiness and peace forever. Welcome him now into paradise where there will be no more sorrow, no more weeping or pain, but only peace and joy with Jesus your Son, and the Holy Spirit forever and ever.
May God hold Michael in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family. My deepest sympathy.
August 10, 2007
There is nothing that I can say or do to take away the pain or bring you peace in your time of sorrow, but I will offer you and your family my heart felt condolences. I also offer you my prayers that in time the pain will easy and the memories of your HERO will carry you through each day and night. I want to thank your HERO, for his/her selfless act of becoming a member of the armed forces, his/her willingness to defend the United States of America, all that we hold sacred and for the sacrifice that will forever be etched in the memories of all those who knew him/her. Though tears can never bring him/her back, we hope that our tears express our gratitude for the sacrifice that he/she made and our sorrow at his/her passing. I believe for every fallen HERO there is a star shining brightly up above to remind us of the precious gift we were given.
Your mission on earth is complete and you are now a member of GOD’’s Heavenly armed forces. Stand down brave warrior and take your rightful place in Heaven with all the HEROES who have passed before.
I made a special promise to LE RON A. WILSON, a family friend (KIA on 07/06/07) on the day he was laid to rest as I touched his coffin, that I would never forget him nor would I forget those that gave their lives for our country before him, with him and after him and so when I came across www.legacy.com, I thought what a great way to keep my promise to Le Ron, so I will continue to leave tributes in each guest book until the day there is no longer the need to leave these tributes to a FALLEN HERO.
REST IN PEACE, HERO, YOU WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)
August 9, 2007
First Sgt Barnhill is a beautiful Angel in heaven walking the golden streets with my brother Tommy....
RIP Devil Dog
T.
Sister of a fallen Marine
July 17, 2007
Thank you for the sacrifice made by 1st Sgt Barnhill and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
Aunt of a Marine deploying soon
Garnet Jenkins
May 27, 2007
May the Peace of God and your memories of 1st Sgt. Michael S. Barnhill, remain in your heart always. A Multitude of Thanks, for his Courage, Dedication and Service to our Country and for Freedom. Please know how deeply sorry I was, to learn of the loss of this Brave Marine.
Those who Made this Ultimate Sacrifice, So Many and So Young, shall Never Be Forgotten, my brother among them. Killed in action in Vietnam in 1967.
"Greater love hath no man than this, that he lay down his life for his friends." - John 15:13
You are in my thoughts and prayers on this Memorial Day weekend.
David H. Barnhill
September 24, 2006
My son Cpl.David Barnhill and 1st SGT Barnhill met and visited fot a short while at Pendleton just before their 2003 deployment to Kuwait/Iraq. His 5th Great-grandfather fought in the Revolutionary War.
ROBYN GARSIDE
August 5, 2006
MAY GOD BLESS YOU AND YOURS. I HAVE JUST LEARNED OF YOUR GREAT LOSS AND WISH TO EXPRESS MY DEEPEST CONDOLENCES. PLEASE KNOW THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE OUT HERE WHO DO CARE AND YOUR HERO WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN. HOLD TIGHT TO YOUR TREASURED MEMORIES THAT HIS SPECIAL SMILE MAY CONTINUE TO SHINE ON FOR YOUR CHILDREN. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. STAY STRONG AND GODSPEED. SEMPER FI
A PROUD MARINE MOM
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
March 4, 2006
My heartfelt sympathy to the Barnhill family in the loss of Michael. I did not know Michael, but my heart is broken and I am saddened for your loss of such a fine young person and hero. May God bring you peace in your heart as you reflect on all the wonderful memories you hold so close. Please know that you are in my heart and prayers. Michael soon it will be 10 months since you were taken. You are a hero and you will never be forgotten.
I send each of you a hug from the most inner part of my heart.
Love and Peace
Tom
To live in the hearts
of those you leave behind
is never to die"
~Robert Orr~
Vangi & McKaLyne Lunsford
January 12, 2006
Psalm 23
1
The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not be in want.
2
He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside quiet waters,
3
He restores my soul. He guides me in paths of righteousness for his name's sake.
4
Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.
5
You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies. You anoint my head with oil; my cup overflows.
6
Surely goodness and love will follow me all the days of my life, and I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.
This is a verse that I have found to be comforting to me during my husbands death. Remember that when it seems that no one else is round, God is still there with you! And he will be your rock!
My daughter,McKaLyne, and I send our heartfelt sympathy for your loss! God Bless this warrior, God Bless those whom serve freedom's cause! They are our true HERO's!!!!
If you need anything, please feel free to contact me!!!
Wife & Daughter of the Late
Sgt. Audrey Daron Lunsford
KIA May 23, 2005
Don Lloyd
June 30, 2005
Dear Mrs Barnhill and children
I am so sorry for the loss of your husband and father. His work and dedication will not be in vain and he will be remembered, always. My son Jeff is in your husbands unit and obviously he and the entire unit were devastated. When Jeff called us from Al Asad to let us know about your husband we could tell that he will be missed in the unit but that they were resolved in there task at hand and would not let Michael's passing stop them from completing there mission. My wife and I count the days when Jeff will return and we know that these guys are making a difference for us back home..as Michael has. Peace be with you and if there is anything any of us can do for you please ask!
Don Lloyd
June 29, 2005
I am deeply sorry for your loss. 1st Sgt Barhill was in the unit that replaced mine during his last tour at Al Asad. The brief time that I knew him, I grew to respect him for his leadership. I know his Marines did as well. He died serving his country and his corps and for a good cause.
Semper Fi.
A Sgt in 6th ESB from Peoria, IL
Shannon Valenzuela
June 14, 2005
Mrs. Barnhill,
As a wife of an Army 1SG serving in Baghdad, I felt compelled to reach out to you and tell you my heart is breaking for you. Please know that your military community is behind you and we love and support you and stand behind all that Michael believed in as a Marine. We all carry the same last name, "USA" so if there is ever anything you need, you are family and the invitation is open. Warm Regards, Shannon.
Erin Hale
June 11, 2005
Joanna, Mike, Michelle and Ashlee,
Our family was saddened to hear of Mike's passing. We will remember him as a loving husband and father, a great soccer coach and, most of all, a hero who unselfishly made the ultimate sacrifice for our continued freedom. God bless you and keep you and while this may sound strange, thank you too for your sacrifice. We have the utmost respect for your unselfishness.
Erin Hale and Brendt Wallace
Linda Ellis
June 10, 2005
Dear Joanna, Michael, Michelle and Ashlee,
I, along, with many others, was saddened to learn of Mike's death.
I first knew Mike when he was 13-1/2 years old, when I first met his mother, Donna, who became a longtime, dear and treasured friend. Through the years, she talked about Mike and his accomplishments and was so proud of him! I remember when he entered the Marines. I know his parents were very proud of him, but like all loving parents, hated to see him go. As time moved along, I remember when Donna told me he was dating a lovely gal, named Joanna, and then they got married!! Later I heard about each baby as she gained each new grandchild!!! She loved telling me about her grandchildren and their activities. She loved you all very, very much and felt badly that Jim wasn't here to enjoy them with her. That was very hard on her.
All through the years, she proudly talked about all of you!! She loved having her 3 grandchildren closeby so that she could see you all often! She was so very, very thankful for the love shown to her by all of you. She talked about how nice you were to her, Joanna, in your willingness to help her in shopping, and in the house projects you and Mike helped her with when she needed help. She was so thankful for the help and love shown to her when she was in poor health and needed your help. She loved you all very, very much.
In knowing Donna and the wonderful, oranized, well-disciplined and hard-working lady she was, I can see that these same traits were passed on to Mike!!! I know that Mike felt very loved by his family and was very proud of all of you.
As I sat at the memorial service and listened to one person after the other talk about Mike and his accomplishments, with his strong leadership and discipline skills, I also heard he had humor and tenderness too! I can see that he truly was a wonderful man, a brave and courageous soldier, a devoted and well-respected employee, a great coach, a loving father and a wonderful, loving husband. I can see that he truly touched a lot of people's lives. He gave sacrificially for his country and he served his country and his fellowman in a way that will be always remembered!!
Poems can be comforting and so can words from the Bible. I know from my own experience, that God loves each of us and He wants to comfort us when we are lonely and need a friend. Here is a poem that I pray will comfort you.
There's one who knows why you are sad,
There's one who cares for you--
Just look to Him, and trust in Him,
And He will see you through.
He knows your loss and your sorrow,
He hears your prayer above--
Each day He freely gives to you,
The strength of His great love.
by J. Harold Gwynne
May God be with all of you and may He help comfort you.
Love, Linda Ellis, Folsom, CA
916-983-3864
Sgt. Eric G. Humphreys
June 10, 2005
Barnhill & Family,
We are are so sorry to hear of your loss. Our deepest condolences to you and your family. I had to the oppurtunity to work with Michael at the prision and serving over sea's. Your in our thoughts and prayers.
Mae Waller-Turner
June 9, 2005
My heart weeps for you all. But, know that it is ok to cry. Tears are God's way of cleansing the soul. Remember your departed father, husband , and friend often. It may bring tears to your eyes, but remembering will also bring a smile to your heart. Speak of him with love and fondness. Know that every time you say his name his soul will rejoice in heaven.
Having grown up in a Marine Corps family, I understand your pain, grief and shock of loosing a loved family member in combat. Working in the prison system, I understand the loss of a brother officer. Know that my thoughts and prayers are with you all.
Simnper Fi.
Lt. Mae Waller-Turner
South Carolna Department of Corrections
Training Academy
KIM TODD
June 8, 2005
Joanna & Family,
We are so very sorry for your loss. We have many wonderful memories of Mike. He was a great guy, coach, and friend! I will always remember how much he loved his wife and children. I will always remember him out on the field truly enjoying the game of soccer. Shelby really enjoyed the many years he was around giving her good advice and making her laugh. We know that he is playing soccer in heaven, right along side Jesus. While Mike’s passing is a tragedy, we are proud to have known him and respect the valor Mike displayed in protecting the freedom we so often take for granted. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
Rich, Kim, Dustin & Shelby.
John & Karen Pflasterer
June 8, 2005
Mrs. Barnhill - we did not personally know your brave husband, but we want to extend our prayers for you and your wonderful children & thank you for your great love for your husband & country. We pray that God sustains & strengthens you & surrounds you with His love. We pray for our service men & women, their families, & President Bush every day. Thank you - you have given so much & we pray God Blesses you beyond measure.
Mattice's
June 8, 2005
We would like to express our sincerest condolences to the Barnhill family during this time of loss. SGT Michael will never be forgotten for his great unselfish sacrifices to serve and defend. May you each find comfort in days ahead knowing we keep you in thoughts and prayers.
Cindy Owens
June 8, 2005
Dear Barnhill Family,
Mike was the soccer coach, along with Aaron, for my daughter's (Brooke Owens) soccer team two years ago, the Hot Chicks. Our deepest sympathy for the sacrifice your family has made in honor of country and 9/11 victims. God bless you all. Driving past the memorial yesterday the flags were waiving high and I am sure he was there watching. My yellow ribbon and flag wave for all who serve, past, present, and future. Godspeed Mike. You will forever be in our hearts.
GySgt John Stofiel
June 7, 2005
Semper Fidelis in the truest sense.
We thank you Marine for taking care of our Marines in harms way. You will never be forgotten. My bride and I recieved a letter from you the day after you joined the Supreme Commandant, which hit us hard, but you were taking the time to give thanks to us for our support of you and our Marines over there. The thanks goes to you Marine as you gave us the freedoms we enjoy every day and you gave the ulitmate price for that freedom. You will never be forgotten!
Joanna and family our thoughts and prayers are with you always.
Semper Fi
John ~n~ Paulie Stofiel
Carl Pierce
June 7, 2005
I would like to express my sincerest condolences to the Barnhill family during this time of loss. Mike "Barney" was a friend and a correctional brother. He will be greatly missed by our community of officers, not just for the person he was but also for the professionalism he personified. A void has been felt at the institution since the announcement of his passing. He will be missed by all of us.
Like those who have gone before him, his sacrifice will never be forgotten and our memories of him will remain forever.
Peace be with you and your family. Our prayers are with you always.
C/O Carl Pierce
CERTOps.com Membership
June 6, 2005
A community of CERT Operator Brothers and Sister are with you during this time.
Thank you for all that you have done. Rest Now Operator. God Bless You and your Family
"One Team One Fight"
Debbie Brock
June 5, 2005
Dear Barnhill Family,
Words just cannot express the tremendous loss you have suffered. Just know that our love and prayers are with you. May time offer you comfort and peace and love carry you though.
Jared Ferreirae
Stephanie Staeger
June 5, 2005
Dear Barnhill Family,
Mike was one of my favorite instructors. He was steady and kind and always had something encouraging to say to everyone around him. He was a dynamic man and a brave soldier. He was a wonderful friend. I will miss him greatly.
Paul Moses
June 5, 2005
You will be missed by everyone who had the honor to have known you. Semper Fi Marine
Paul Moses
Supervising Correctional Cook
Sierra Conservation Center
Linda Vierling
June 5, 2005
Dear Joanna,
We have never met, but our husbands served together at the 2nd Contact Maintenance Reserve Unit in Sacramento until Michael transferred to Eugene and my husband transferred to Hawaii.
When I saw the news story on your husband, I asked my husband if he knew him. He told me how they worked together at the Reserve unit and then I told him of Michael's death. He was shocked and started checking the web to be sure I had the right person. Immediately stories of their working together at the Reserve unit started rolling off his tongue as he searched, hoping it was not the Sgt. Barnhill he knew. When he saw Michael's picture I could see the devistation on his fact. The phone calls began to and from fellow Marines. Calls began going out and coming in to our home from all over Sacramento, Oregon, Washington, Hawaii, Reno, Redding, and Roseville. Marines from all over the country were remembering your husband for his service and dedication to his country and his Corp. If prayers and good thoughts get a person into heaven, Michael was there very quickly.
Your loss is tremendous, and I hope you and your children will find solice in remembering what a decent, honorable man your husband was. There are thousands of us reserve wife's out here who have no base community to support us at times like these, but we our out there; we understand, we grieve for you and your family, and wish you and your children the best for the future.
Jordan Cox
June 4, 2005
Dear Barnhill family,
I'm sorry about the accident with Mike I miss him alot and I'm praying for you all every night. Ashley we all miss you at school.
I hope I can go to the funeral service support you guys about the loss.
love always your friend
Jordan cox
Tony Hughes
June 4, 2005
Joanna and family,
I know I already signed this, but Mike is the kind of guy who deserves at least two notes from each person, in my very humble opinion.
Anyway, Mike was a very honorable man-always on the ball, not afraid to ask for help when he needed it, even if it was from someone younger and at a lower belt than he was. When the instructors were busy, he was the one who took charge of the class, even when he wasn't asked. Everyone thinks that I am a natural born leader, however I actually learned HOW to lead from him. I swear that I will dedicate each and every class that I am in to him.
Gary Close
June 4, 2005
Dear Barnhill Family,
My heart and prayers go out to Mike and his family. I have very fond memories of Mike and his zeal for life in our childhood. I wrestled against Mike in school and he always beat me badly. Mike never rubbed it in though. He was a true friend. I can only imagine that he was the kind of person that America was built upon. We can never repay you for the personal sacrifice that Mike and his family have made for our country. I do know that from our childhood relationship that he must have served our country with the utmost integrity and courage. My deepest gratitude and respect to Mike and the Barnhill family. He will be sorely missed.
Gary Close
Childhood Friend, Folsom CA
Bob and Marilyn Close
June 3, 2005
To Mike's family:
It is with great distress that we read about Mike's passing. He and our son, Gary, were close buddies in pre-school and Sunday School. Gary wrestled against Mike in Junior High School. Gary even received many of Mike's hand-me-down clothes because Mike was almost a year older. We enjoyed the Barnhill family very much during the years we knew them and I can't imagine losing a son, husband, father, especially at his age. Our hearts go out to all of you.
Bob and Marilyn Close,
El Dorado Hills, CA
John Manzo
June 3, 2005
Mike emanated strength and confidence when we trained together at Kovar's. He lead by example and always had a kind way of making corrections. I am deeply moved and saddened by his loss. I send my best wishes to his family and friends and know that Mike's strength will help carry you through this.
J.A. Social Worker
June 3, 2005
It is with great sadness and respect that I write down this message. Having never known you, I was deeply touched by your sacrifice. You are a true hero because you served in the Marines and also in Corrections, always keeping us safe. I am forever grateful to you and your family for the magnitude of your exemplary life. And to other soldiers and officers, I salute you. God Bless.
AMANDA LAUBINGER
June 3, 2005
JOHANNA AND FAMILY
THINKING OF YOU AND YOUR FAMILY. GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
WITH MY DEEPEST SYMPATHY,
AMANDA. CLASS OF 1983 FOLSOM HIGH.
Patty Ballou
June 3, 2005
Mike your love for your family and the Marines was always so inspiring. You leave a large emptiness in our hearts but so many memories of your love and kindness. Heaven will welcome this "Proud Marine. Your goodness will live on through your children and Joanna always. Love always Bob, Patty and Michael.
Arne, Tina & Taylor Eastlund
June 3, 2005
Dear Barnhill Family:
Our heart goes out to you and your family. Not only was Mike Taylor's trainer in soccer, he was a dear friend to our family. Taylor looked up to him, as did all the girls on the team. He had a big heart and was loved by all. He gave up a lot to fight for our country and for that we thank you! He will be so dearly missed by us!
Chris Baker
June 3, 2005
SEMPER FI and godspeed!
Laura McIntyre
June 3, 2005
Mike you will be surely missed by all your family and friends. This country lost a great son when you died. You were someone that I always admired in high school and never told you how I felt and now it is to late. Love you Mike.
Laura, Toby and Sabrina
Rebecca Welch
June 2, 2005
Dear Joanna,
My deepest sympathy to you and all your family. Mike was a great man. Not only did he give his life to protect his own country, but to give freedom to another as well. Hero is not even a big enough word to describe him or the many others that have made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure what so many take for granted everyday. I am proud to have known him even if only for a short time. He will be missed. I will keep you all in my prayers. God Bless you and all of your family.
Love ya,
Becky and Mike Welch
James Haley
Robert and Matthew Welch
Rebecca Welch
June 2, 2005
Dear Joanna,
My deepest sympathy to you and all your family. Mike was a great man. Not only did he give his life to protect his own country, but to give freedom to another as well. Hero is not even a big enough word to describe him or the many others that have made the ultimate sacrifice to ensure what so many take for granted everyday. He will be missed. I will keep you all in my prayers. God Bless you and all of your family.
Love ya,
Becky and Mike Welch
James Haley
Robert and Matthew Welch
Tony Hughes
June 2, 2005
Words cannot accurately express how much I loved you as a friend, student, instructor, even a brother. You were a real inspiration to me. No matter how hard things got for you, you ALWAYS got through them. You will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Jack Valk
June 1, 2005
Mike,
You are a great friend and one of the best Marines I have ever had the honor of serving with. When I got to Sacramento as the I&I Training Chief, you were my counterpart and taught me well. We became a very good team and always accomplished our mission. You are a Marines Marine. Thank you for your friendship. You and your family will always be in my thoughts and prayers.
Semper Fi my friend.
Jack
GySgt Ret.
Susan Johnson
June 1, 2005
Thank you brave soldier for your selfless sacrifice for the freedom of others. I am deeply grateful and profoundly humbled by your courageous service to our great nation and those others in need. May God bless your family and bring them peace and comfort.
First Sergeant Barnhill
June 1, 2005
John Baker
June 1, 2005
Mike was a Marine's Marine. He will be deeply missed by all. Former SGT John Baker, LTJG USNR.
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