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Michael Koch Obituary
Michael Eugene Koch VIRGINIA BEACH - Michael Eugene Koch was born in Offutt Air Force Base, Neb., May 12, 1978, and died Feb. 4, 2008 from wounds sustained from small arms fire during combat operations in Iraq. John 15:13. "Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends." Chief Petty Officer Mike Koch paid the ultimate sacrifice for his country. He died doing what he loved. Mike was an extraordinarily brave SEAL, honored teammate and great American. He was loved and will be missed by family and friends. "Be strong and courageous, do not be afraid or tremble at them, for the Lord your God is the one who goes with you. He will not fail you or forsake you." Deuteronomy 31:6. Mike graduated from McDonough High School in May of 1996. He enlisted in the U.S. Navy July 9, 1998, and graduated from boot camp at Recruit Training Command, Great Lakes, Ill., in September of 1998. Mike entered Basic Underwater Demolition/SEAL (BUD/S) training in Coronado, Calif., Class 224 in January 1999 and graduated in August. He served his entire career with East Coast-based SEAL teams. His awards and decorations include two Bronze Stars with Valor, Purple Heart, Joint Service Commendation Medal, three Navy and Marine Corps Achievement medals, three Good Conduct medals, two National Defense Service medals, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Kosovo Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, five Sea Service deployment ribbons, NATO Medal, and the Expert Rifle Medal, Expert Pistol Medal. Mike is survived by his fiancee and her son, mother, father, brother and sister. "Call upon me in the day of trouble: I will deliver thee ." Psalms 50:15. H.D. Oliver Funeral Apts., Laskin Road Chapel, is handling arrangements.
Memories and Condolences
for Michael Koch
123 Entries
Tami Plumer
May 29, 2022
You are so missed today as you were the day we lost you.
How does one thank you for sacrificing your life so that I and my beloved family can live free and peacefully?
I miss you, terribly.
This will be the last Memorial Day I'm able to say goodbye.
I miss you, terribly, but in God's arms for eternity.
All my love
Tami Plumer
November 1, 2021
You are often in my thoughts which I draw wonderful memories. You are greatly loved and missed, terribly.
God must hold you tightly in His arms.
Love you,
Tami Plumer
Tami Plumer
July 4, 2021
On this 4th day of July, 2021, I miss you, terribly.
As Americans celebrate this 245th year of independence, we have you to be thankful for our freedom.
My heart aches for your love of the USA & your ultimate sacrifice.
May God hold you close is His arms, for eternity.
All my love,
Tami Plumer
May 30, 2021
Mike continues to be loved, cherished & missed, terribly. When remembering Mike, every day is Memorial Day.
Rest in eternal peace brave and honorable warrior, USN SEAL Team 6.
Tami Plumer
May 27, 2017
Dearest Mike:
You are missed more than words can express.
I value your ultimate service so that I and my loved-ones can remain living in peace.
On this Memorial Day, 2017, we honor your exceptional life, sacrifice and love of family and country.
May God hold you close and continue peace, for eternity.
All my love, always,
Tami
P.S. You are still the cutest SEAL I've ever known!
Tami
May 24, 2015
On this Memorial Day Mike, you are again honored and cherished for your bravery, and ultimate sacrifice, so that my family and hundreds of millions in America may continue to live in freedom and peace.
These few words don't begin to speak of what an honor it was to be loved by you and to call you my dear friend.
I miss you terribly......
May God bless you for eternity,
February 9, 2015
Yet another year passes since God took you in His arms, but it still feels like yesterday. Our love and memories never cease, our laughter continues when telling, ''Mike stories.''
Please ask St. Peter to hold open those pearly gates so I can easily slip thru to join you when called.
All my love for eternity,
Tami
Charlie Gili
May 12, 2013
Hello,
We would like to express our deepest condolences and also let the Koch Family know that we recently sent Care Packages to American troops in the war zones. Each box carried a dedication sheet that includes the name, service information and a photo of your loved one. We recognize that this is a humble tribute, but we wanted you to know that it is heartfelt and made possible by thousands of like-minded individuals in the youth hockey community and beyond. We will not forget. May God Bless you and keep you strong.
Sincerely,
Charlie Gili & Family
On Behalf of the US Hockey Players Support Our Troops Campaign
Lynne Neibert
March 20, 2013
Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers ([email protected]) is an organization with groups throughout the country who work to send handmade prayer shawls and/or lap robes to families who have lost a loved one while serving our country. Members of Trindle Spring Lutheran Church would like to extend our sincere sympathy and to honor your loved one's sacrifice and memory by sending our prayers and comfort through a prayer gift which will be mailed to you. If you are interested, please contact me at [email protected] with the names and addresses of those who would like to receive one and which gift they would like to receive. We will send our gift as soon as possible. Also, if you know of any other families who are grieving the loss of a loved on who died while serving our country, please pass along my e-mail address. May God bless you and comfort you in the days ahead. Sincerely, Lynne
Tami Plumer
February 7, 2013
At the onset of Super Bowl XLVII, 02.03.2013, memories of your mission with Nate during S.B. XLII were overwhelming. By the half, I thanked God you & Nate were safe in God's arms.
We honor your life, service to our great nation & your ultimate sacrifice for our continued ability to live in freedom.
Love and God bless you for eternity.
Peggy Childers
February 4, 2013
To the family and friends of Chief Petty Officer Michael E. Koch:
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
Tami & Michael Plumer
February 15, 2012
We continue to honor your life and bravery while missing you, terribly. May God bless you for eternity.
Marcie Zelenski Hubbard
February 5, 2012
Thought of you Mike and your life and how amazing you were.... Won't forget.
Peggy Childers
February 4, 2012
To the family and friends of Chief Petty Officer Michael E. Koch:
Always remembering Michael. "Some gave all."
Tami Plumer
May 11, 2011
12 May, 2011
On this 33rd year of your birth, may you know God's eternal peace and love.
On 01 May, 2011, - an historic day for America - my thoughts immediately were of you and Nate, hoping God delivered the news of the successful mission.
You remain in my heart and prayers.
God bless you, always,
Peggy Childers
February 4, 2011
To the family and friends of Chief Petty Officer Michael E. Koch:
Please accept my remembrance of Michael on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
Tami Plumer
May 11, 2010
12 May, 2010
You brightened our world 32 years ago today. Now your light shines down upon us for eternity.
I miss you terribly.
God bless you, always
Peggy Childers
February 4, 2010
To the family and friends of Chief Petty Officer Michael E. Koch:
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
Tami Plumer
January 31, 2010
04 February, 2010
God took you in His arms 2 years ago and although we miss you terribly, we know you have eternal love and peace.
God bless you and your precious family.
P.S. You're still the cutest SEAL I've ever known!
December 14, 2009
Our Heart felt condolences and prayers go out to you in your time of grief.
We are thinking of you.
There is a special place beside God for those who have served this great Nation.
God Bless.
Your Comrades at Chapter 20 Disabled American Veterans
Chaplain Reynolds, Chapter 20 DAV
Anthony Bush
August 15, 2009
It is a great honor to sign the book of this American hero.
Virginia Mccormick
July 8, 2009
Iam so sorry----I didnt'know you or your family , but being a navy wife
for 34 years he made it back but pass away a few yars later. so the navy is near and dear to my heart.I will pray
that God will give you peace that pass
all understandingI am sure Your son is
sitting at the feet of Jesus. God Bless you I have two grandson (navy)
Eileen Suggs
May 25, 2009
Not forgotten. Thank you.
Tami Plumer
May 9, 2009
12 May, 2009
Happy 31st birthday in heaven, dearest Mike. You are missed, terribly. Please hold a place for us.
May Gob Bless You Always,
Tami Plumer
April 18, 2009
My thoughts and prayers are with your family, daily.
I miss Mike so much....
May God Bless You All, Always
(Note: Updated e-mail)
Michael Iezzi
February 4, 2009
Michael,
Thinking and praying for you on the 1st anniversary of your passing into eternal glory. May God hold you in the palm of His hand. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends", John 15:13.
Peggy Childers
February 4, 2009
To the family of Chief Petty Officer Michael E. Koch:
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
Tami Plumer
February 2, 2009
04 February, 2009
To Mike's Precious Family, Dear Friends and to All That Love Him:
As the New Year approached, I thought I didn't want to go forward as I felt I was leaving Mike behind. Now, how can it be that one year has passed since God called him home? As his many, beloved friends have told me, they feel as I that he remains with us in our daily thoughts and prayers. I reserve time each day to privately celebrate and honor his life. I never think of Mike without thoughts of his buddy, Nate, their service and ultimate sacrifice so my beloved family and all Americans can maintain our daily freedom. May God hold them in His arms with eternal love. God bless you all for your sacrifice. With eternal appreciation,
T Starman
January 17, 2009
I offer my deepest condolences for your loss
Kenna Larra
December 1, 2008
FREE OIL ON CANVAS PAINTING OF THIS HERO. COMPLETE FORM AT WWW.HEROPAINTINGS.COM
We love our Soldiers! This is a Nonprofit Organization to honor are Soldiers!
Please contact us! Contact us directly at [email protected] or go to www.heropaintings.com. If you have already had a portrait completed, God Bless You and we hope that your portrait is bringing you some peace!
Sincerely,
Kenna
Kim Smith
August 28, 2008
Although I did not know Chief Petty Officer Michael R. Koch, I hold him and his family in my heart and prayers.
Remember when times get tough that he is looking down from heaven smiling and protecting you.
Thank You for serving to keep our country safe.
May you rest in Peace with the Lord, and your hearts heal in time.
"Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends" John 15:13
Proud Wife-to-Be of a Marine in Iraq
Tami Plumer
August 4, 2008
04 August, 2008
It's been 6 months today since God took you into His arms to hold you in eternal peace and love. Never does a day pass that I don't pray for you and remember our times together. You are one of the greatest men I've been honored to know and love. I miss you, terribly. May God bless you, always.
July 9, 2008
Thank you for the sacrifice made by Chief Petty Officer Koch and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!
July 9, 2008
You are remembered and respected. Thank you Chief Petty Officer Koch!
RIP PFC Aaron J. Ward 4/28/89 - 5/608 (KIA)
Gary Tolle
July 1, 2008
Michael, God bless you sailor and thank you for your brave and honorable service to a grateful nation and for paying the ultimate price for our freedom.. You are now in great company with God and so many other fallen hero's before and after you. On 5/6/08 my nephew PFC Aaron J. Ward was killed in action in Iraq and my final promise to him was to never forget him and our fallen hero’s, we will never forget their commitment and sacrifice. Koch family, words cannot express the pain we now share, but our families will forever have a bond and we will be thinking of Michael and your family and will keep you in our thoughts & prayers. Please accept my heart felt condolences and my prayer that god help you cope with this tragic loss and may the memories of your HERO carry you through each day. From one Gold Star family to another!
Tami Plumer
May 15, 2008
12 May, 2008
I so wish you were here with us to celebrate your 30th birthday on this date, dearest Mike. I hope God was able to forward you my text message wishing you a loving birthday.
Your love, your life and your ultimate sacrifice for our freedom will never be forgotten by my beloved family.
Until we meet again........
May God grant you eternal peace.
All My Love, Always
Justin Plumer
May 14, 2008
I miss you, bud. I hate that we haven't seen each other in over 2 years because of our work schedules. Now that you are at Arlington, you are closer to me than you have been in a long time.
I always knew you would make it in the teams mentally, but I never thought your body would hold up. I am glad I was wrong. I miss you so much. I looked up to you so much and I was so proud when you said that I would have made it through BUD/S if I tried. You are the definition of the "quiet professional". Everytime I come to a point in my life when it gets tough, I think "what would Mikey do in this situation?". I don't know much of what happened to you in the end but I know you were doing what you love and doing it very well, and you were with your friends, teammates. Some of the best times in my life came when we served together.
Nothing bothered you. The hardest time came when I had to leave my friend in a goddamn box in that field. There is so much more I have to say but it is too much to even think of right now. I love you, bud. I hope to see you one day soon.
Plumer
Safely Home
Michael Iezzi
May 14, 2008
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.
Paladin
May 5, 2008
Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life for his friends.
The Buck Family
April 18, 2008
To the family of Chief Petty Officer Michael E. Koch, our prayers are with you for your loss. What he has done for our country and our freedom will not be forgotten.
April 11, 2008
Thank you for all you have done for this country! God bless you and your family.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
March 13, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to the Koch 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. My heart was touched by the many wonderful/beautiful things written about you. Michael you are my hero and you will NEVER be forgotten. I live close to ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY and I visit there frequently. Each time I am at ANC I will visit/honor Michael.
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~
March 12, 2008
To the Family and Friends of this Soldier:
I will stand in grief with this soldier's family to honor him. For every fallen HERO there is a bright star that shines in the evening sky to remind us of the cherished gift we were given – even if for too short a time.
My heart breaks again as I sign yet another guest book of another courageous young soldier who gave their life so selflessly. I wish I never found myself in a position to have to sign another guestbook for the rest of my life, but I promised Brent that neither he nor any like him would be forgotten and so I will continue until the day there is no longer the need.
We lost our son SFC Brent A. Adams on 12/1/05 and it seems like yesterday. I wish so badly there were things I could say to you right now to make the pain you are feeling go away, but I know first hand there simply are no words that will bring you the comfort and peace your heart aches for. Just know that you are not alone. My heart, thoughts, and prayers are with you all as you go through this tragedy moment by moment and as you mourn this loss.
We don't know each other, will probably never meet, but will forever be united in the loss of our Heroes. We have, unfortunately joined a group none of us wanted to join, an ever-growing group of families in this situation. May God grant you peace and strength to get through this and be able once again to smile at a memory rather than have only the tears that flow so easily now. To be so proud of your loved one and so saddened at the same time is a mix of emotions very difficult to deal with as our hearts both burst with pride and pain together.
I am sorry that I never knew your soldier personally. While they can never be replaced, neither will they ever be forgotten. You must trust that sometime, someday the loving memories you have will help to sustain you and help you go on. This courageous soldier will forever be your Angel watching over you all for the rest of your lives. It's what brings me some measure of peace and comfort and I hope it will you as well.
To his family and friends in pain, I offer this comfort: When you find yourself in that dark sorrowful place, think not only of how you will miss him, but instead recall the years, days, hours and minutes gifted to you by his presence. The one thing that cannot be taken from you is your wonderful memories that now will mean more than ever.
If you ever want to talk, I'm only an e:mail away and would love for you to tell me more about your Hero.
God Bless this soldier and family who gave all and God Bless legacy.com for setting up this site where families can so quickly share their condolences and prayers with others like themselves.
Proud Parents of SFC Brent A. Adams, KIA, 12/1/05, Ramadi, Iraq
Pam and Bill Adams, Lancaster, PA
John Motty
March 7, 2008
Dear Family and Friends,
I would like to offer my sincerest condolences. I cannot begin to imagine the loss and pain all are going through. My nephew is a United States Marine and serving in Iraq. We all pray every day for him and his comrade’s safety every day. War is a horrible reality. I salute and I am proud of all of our troops and their bravery to protect our freedom and server their country with honor. Freedom is not free.
With deepest regrets and sympathy
Brain Gerson
March 6, 2008
I pray you will realize that you son died for all of us GOD BLESS
SFC Brian Gerson AZNG
Debra Cappel
March 2, 2008
My deepest sympathy to the family and loved ones of Michael. He is truly one of America's great heroes, and we will NEVER forget his courage, valor, and HONOR in serving the United States of America. Thank you to Michael for protecting the idealogy of FREEDOM so that our future generations may also love in democracy. It is with deepest respect for Michael that I ask God to wrap his loving arms around Michael now that he stands guard at heaven's gate. May he rest in peace forever. His sacrifice will always be remembered as we salute our flag in his honor. God Bless to the family.
Rosemarie Annese
March 2, 2008
Dear Koch Family,
Our sincere prayers and condolences to you as you grieve this tragic loss.
The nation has lost an exemplary warrior. Michael will be remembered as a true American hero and the best the U.S. has to offer.
God bless you,
Blue Star Mothers, MA Chapter 1
LB
February 24, 2008
Thank You and God Bless. We will NEVER forget!
Pat Brennan
February 20, 2008
We have lost a Great Man and Fellow CPO. Having met Mike and worked with him I know he will be missed. My condolences to his family on their loss.
Sharon Koch
February 19, 2008
Mike, my brother, we miss you. I'm here taking care of your little brother as best as I can. He looks up to you so much, as do we all. Life will never be the same for us without you here. You are our hero brother, always were. We love love you!
Mike & Debby Avirom
February 18, 2008
Our deepest sympathy to Mike's family. You are in our thoughts and in our prayers.
Julie Perry
February 17, 2008
My heart is broken for you and your family. You are in my thoughts & prayers. God bless you.
Ashley Smeltzer
February 17, 2008
Mike was not only a great SEAL but he was a great man and an awesome cousin. He was one in a million! He didn't talk about his job but we all knew how much he loved it and he was great at what he did. I couldn't be prouder of him. I love and miss him so much! He lives on in our hearts and memories. I live each day now with his words in my head. "If you don't live life on the edge you'll miss the view." Well I don't want to miss the view and I know with Mike watching over me, anything is possible!
Janice Oswald
February 15, 2008
To the family and friends of CPO Koch...you are in my thoughts and prayers. May God give you peace and comfort during this difficult time. I am so sorry for your loss. God Bless You.
Stephen Smeltzer
February 14, 2008
Mike was the best cousin i have ever had. I'am so proud of him for what he did and of course for the purpose. Everyone respected him, and we always will. He did his job respectfully and very very well. No one in the Navy will ever replace him, He was the best.. "I love you Mike"
February 14, 2008
Mike and I lost contact for about 10 years now, he left for basic and I just left LaPlata. Now, more then ever, I wish I went and found him just to say hi. Mike and I were good buddies for a long while and he had two character traits that I will always remember about him.
The first thing is that no matter what he was doing or what he was involved in he did it the best that he could, he never held back and he never made excuses. Weather he was playing football, or learning how to use the machines in the metal shop, or studying for school: He put everything he had into whatever he was doing. That’s why when he first told me that he was going to be a Navy Seal I never had any doubts. People who didn't know him well would say becoming a Seal is tough, not everyone makes it. I always told them "I don't know about everyone else but Mike will make it".
The second thing I will always remember about him was his ability to have fun and make the people around him have fun. He could say the funniest things at the most random times and everyone would crack up laughing. Or the party would be a blast as it was and Mike would come up with some prop or comment that would just make everyone loose it. We all went skiing one year, probably the winter of 97-98, and the mountain had more grass showing then snow. That didn’t stop mike, he was out there with his T-shirt and sunglasses skiing his heart out. The point is Mike was the definition of “always have fun” and “making the best out of every situation”.
Though I have not seen him for some time I am sure that those of you who have would agree…He was a great guy who always was a pleasure to be around.
Linda Cano
February 14, 2008
To the Koch family, may God comfort you in your time of sorrow. Michael, thank you for your courage, honor and ultimate sacrifice. You will not be forgotten, my American Hero. Rest in the arms of out Lord, Jesus.
Chris Kenney
February 13, 2008
A true american hero! Mike you will be missed. Your memorial was one that will be etched into my memory for the rest of my days. Rest in peace warrior!
Justin B
February 13, 2008
May you rest in peace.
HM2(NAC) JB
Erika Mesenbourg
February 13, 2008
I went to high school with Mike and he was my homecoming date junior year. I have never known a more kind soul. When I heard that Mike had become a navy seal I wasn't suprised. He always demonstrated the tenacity and dedication required to serve with the navy's most elite. I, like many others,am devestated to hear that Mike has passed. I am comforted in knowing that we are so fortunate to have brave soldiers like Mike defending the freedom that we take for granted every day. I thank God that I had the opportunity to meet Mike and I will always hold onto the memories we shared. May his family take comfort in knowing how much their son and brother was adored. God bless.
February 13, 2008
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 dear family friend who joined the Army with three other friends, one of whom is my son (Le Ron was killed in action on 07/06/07 at the age of 18) 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!!
I would also like to tell you about a website, http://groups.msn.com/SSPSoldierPor
traits/homepage,
where some wonderful people will make wood portraits of your fallen Hero for free for the immediate family. I became aware of this site when I wanted to do something special for Le Ron’s mother.
PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett (Queens, NY)
Sharon Sheriff
February 13, 2008
My sincere condolences go out to the family and friends of Mike. Mike was a great friend to my son Patrick. Patrick is feeling the loss of a true Hero. Patrick is also in the Navy and defending our country. May you rest in peace Mike.
Tami Plumer
February 13, 2008
To The Koch Family & Kathy Howell:
I first met Mike while he was at McDonough H.S., played football with Pat Hoiler, and played against my son, Justin, at LaPlata H.S. The 3 guys quickly became best friends. After PSU, Mike returned to Charles County (MD), Justin left FSU and together they ran the roads & hills of Chas. Co., skydived, worked out for numerous months, and prepared to enter the USN. Together they completed basic training & went on to Dam Neck where our families spent precious weekends with our sons.
These 3 young men sustained their friendship and devotion to one another until the end.
Mike lived his life as an absolute American patriot who will live on in our hearts forever.
On behalf of my family and all those who may not be able to let you know......we're terribly sorry for your loss.
May God bless Mike, your family and America.
With Deepest Sympathy & Appreciation,
Tami Plumer & son Michael
Best Friends Mike & Shawn shooting pool at the finnacharo's house. 1996
February 13, 2008
Training beach at BUDS...Night of Family&friends Grad. cookout 1999
February 13, 2008
Obstacle course Mike trained on. BUDS 1999
February 13, 2008
Mike Loved running on the beach...Cornado, Ca. BUDS 1999
February 12, 2008
On of Mike's obstacle training courses....BUDS 1999
February 12, 2008
Mike's arm...Mike taking us on a tour , we got to watch a training in progress. BUDS 1999
February 12, 2008
"The Pavillion" on the training beach at BUDS also where Mikes grad. Class cook out was held for family & friends our first nite in town.
February 12, 2008
Brian Huntley & Wolfman - 2 of Mikes fellow BUDS classmates and friends. Out celebrating with Mike. 1999
February 12, 2008
Mike out on the town celebrating with family & friends. BUDS graduation 1999
February 12, 2008
Chaplain Dan Gates
February 12, 2008
With the deepest regret, I have just learned of the death of Chief Petty Officer Koch. As a Vietnam Veteran and the State Chaplain of the Georgia Society, Sons Of The American Revolution, I speak for our President, Charlie A. Newcomer, III and the more than 1,400 SAR members around the State of Georgia in humbly expressing the condolences of a grateful Society. Wrapped in the integrity of service to our nation and the inestimable values of duty, honor and country, your American hero stood on a wall of freedom for us all. This precious life, lived and lost in love of America, epitomized every attribute of patriotism the Sons Of The American Revolution hold dear. And, as Americans, we could never repay the debt we owe ..!! Nor the debt we owe you… the family of one of America's best ...!!!
Sally Sanu
February 12, 2008
I went to and graduated high school with Mike. So proud that he chose to defend us and what a sacrifice he made for us. I am proud to have known him and extend my deepest sympathy to his family and loved ones. RIP HERO.
henry thomas
February 12, 2008
may the hand of god be with you and yours.
Aimee O'Connor
February 12, 2008
Matt & your family,
I am so sorry to hear about Mike. You are in my thoughts and prayers. I wish I knew him like I know you, I am sure he was a great guy! If you need anything I am here for you buddy. Please call me or email.
Aimee
AZ1(AW/SW) O'Connor
433-4316
Debbie & Jim Zelenski
February 12, 2008
It is with great sadness that we received the news of Mike's death. As a military family, it pains us even more so to lose one of our own. In our hearts we honor this young man who paid the ultimate sacrifice while serving his country so honorably as a member of such an elite brotherhood as the Navy Seals. We are proud to have met him. God Bless Mike and his loved ones.
Mike and his #1 girl (his Mom xo) in downtown Cornado, Ca. day before graduation from BUDS 1999
February 12, 2008
Tiffany , Howie, Mike's Mom & Mike out on the town! The Nite before Graduation from BUDS 1999
February 12, 2008
The Nite before Graduation from BUDS 1999
February 12, 2008
Mike Graduating 1999 BUDS
February 12, 2008
Mike's Graduation From BUDS 1999 San Diego, Ca.
February 12, 2008
Mike Koch - 1998
February 12, 2008
Mike Koch - 1998
February 12, 2008
One of the best friends I ever had one of the best soliders our country ever had. -(Mel,Mike,Katie)Mike's Grad. pic from B.U.D.S. San Diego, Ca. Aug. 1999
February 12, 2008
Melissa Mills
February 11, 2008
God Bless the family of Mike Koch - I am truely sorry for your loss. I new Mike growing up in Port Tobbaco. We had some great times and lots of memories that I will never forget.
Kristina Middleton (Lacasse)
February 11, 2008
I have been friend's with the family since I first moved here to Maryland. I'm best friends with his sister Tiffany and remember many of times that Mike would pick on us. My thoughts and prayers are with all of the family and friends. Just knowing what he has done for this country gives me chills. HE WILL NEVER BE FORGOTTEN!!! We love you and your family Mike. RIP :( Your our American Hero.
Vanessa Roche
February 11, 2008
I was very sad to hear that Mike lost his life fighting for our country. I pray for our troops every day and thank them when I see them. They make the ultimate sacrifice that so many are unwilling to make. Mike and I went to high school together at McDonough. We weren't very close but I knew who he was and he seemed like a very nice guy. I will continue to pray for your family so that God will help relieve your pain and sorrow. God Bless Mike and all of our troops.
Jean Mariano
February 11, 2008
To the family of CPO Michael Koch - I am so sorry for your loss. Words are so inadequate at this time but know that there are many here across the country praying for you and strength for your family as you honor Michael. He was an honorable and extroardinary person who accepted the risks involved in his job. Thank you for having a son who stood tall for what he believed. He is a hero. Thank you - Jean Mariano - Connecticut
Justin Cady
February 11, 2008
You are in my thoughts and prayers.
Shawna Conway
February 11, 2008
My you find peace during this time of saddness.
Shawna Conway
In Memory of CPL. Rhett Butler
KIA July 20, 2007 Iraq
Lita & Corey and Family
February 11, 2008
"To leave the world a bit better . . . whether by a redeemed social condition; to know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived. This is to have succeeded." ~ Ralph Waldo Emerson
Our thoughts, prayers, and love to you Kathy and to all of Mike's family. It is truly humbling to have known a man of such immense generosity, loyalty, and commitment.
7th grade Louisburg Middle School
February 11, 2008
We care and share your sorrow and pride.
Mary Motley
February 11, 2008
I did not know Mike,but I am part of the Little Creek family. I have a heavy heart for his fiancee & family.
Be strong, my prayers are with you.
Kelly Golden
February 11, 2008
Our thoughts are with you and your family at this time.
Debbie , Kenny Coffey
February 10, 2008
Our thoughts and prayers out to the KOCH family.Knowing now what they have always known is one of many reasons that our HERO[S] shall NEVER be forgotten.Rest well brother as prommissed that star spangled banner shall FOREVER wave.Your name stamped in steel shall be FOREVER clutched in the tallons,as your spirit FOREVER soars high in the skies in the symbol of our great nation..THANK..YOU..You have and always will be a HERO to those you have pulled from the valley of death...T/Q/M...All Hard Chargers..If you are wonded I will carry you**If you are captured I will come for you**If you are K.I.A. I will FOREVER reamber you**COME by NORTH**COME by SOUTH**COME by EAST**COME by WEST.We were all gathered and united on that great day as strangers.As we stood and upon those last [4] spoken words we are...FOREVER..BROTHERS....SEMPER..FI......B.V.C.
Shelley Buter
February 10, 2008
My deepest sympathies go out to the family and friends of Michael Koch. I went to high school with Mike and we were very close friends. He was a great guy and I am sad to say we lost touch after graduation. I will always remember his smile and his kind mannerisms. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.
VFW POST 9959 Comm. R.H.Hansen
February 10, 2008
You are in our prayers.
Mary Ann Gastiger
February 10, 2008
Don,
I heard about Mike's death on the news. I was so hoping this was not
your son, Don. I know how much you loved your children. May you some day find peace in your life again.
My thoughts are with Matt as well. Please let me know if I can help in anyway.
Sincerely,
Mary Ann
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