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Merlin German Obituary
Sgt. Merlin German died April 11 at Brooke Army Medical Center in San Antonio, where he was continuing treatment for the injuries he suffered in combat on Feb. 22, 2005, the Pentagon said Thursday.
The former turret gunner was dubbed the "Miracle Man" for his determination in facing his wounds, which cost the former saxophone player his fingers and rippled his face with scars. He endured more than 40 surgeries, spent 17 months in a hospital and had to learn to walk again.
Meanwhile, he started a charity, Merlin's Miracles, to aid child burn victims and considered college and a career.
"Sometimes I do think I can't do it," he told The Associated Press last year. "Then I think: Why not? I can do whatever I want. ... Nobody has ever been 97 percent dead and survived, and lived to walk."
Born in New York City, German moved to its suburbs as a teenager. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in September 2003, according to his charity's Web site. He was medically retired four years later, the Defense Department said.
German had been stationed at Camp Pendleton, Calif. Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger announced that the state Capitol's flags would be flown at half-staff in German's honor, saying the sergeant's "courage and unfailing loyalty serve as an inspiration to Americans everywhere."
Copyright © 2008 The Associated Press
850 Entries
Sharon Moran
March 29, 2024
I remember reading an article in the newspaper about this wonderful brave soldier. I visit his grave & say a prayer every time I visit my parents at Bushnell National Cemetery in Florida. May God continue to Bless him & his family ❤
Jack Dunbar
July 18, 2022
After a 6 month deployment to Iraq I would visit the injured and recovering military at Brooks Army Hospital. I knew that many of them would appreciate books, magazines, candy or fruit and bringing some gifts made me feel more positive about my own experiences in Iraq. I know I was trying to settle into civilian life again, but I also did not want to forget the experience of war, of being in a war zone of being with people so young, fragile and vulnerable. I wanted the patients at Brooks to feel that they had support after they were discharged.
During one visit, I was introduced to Merlin German. He and I spoke for only a short time. He was adjusting. He was recovering. He was quiet as was I. I would return to Brooks usually on a quiet or a holiday weekend. And I would see Merlin frequently, but he was a quiet person. I left San Antonio in February 2008 and later heard that he had passed away. This is my chance to say good bye to Merlin. There is more that could be said, but I want him and his family to know that Merlin has not been forgotten. He displayed incredible bravery and I wanted to acknowledge his sacrifice for the people of this nation. I vow to remember Merlin until my last day. He was a remarkable Patriot and U.S. Marine
Sally
August 19, 2020
I didn't know him personally but I so remember his story. What a true hero. May he rest in peace. He deserves that.
Carlos Pena
May 28, 2019
My brother we share the same birthday the same branch of service the same culture. I'm very proud of you and look up to you and your attitude towards difficult times. Even an old man like me can learn from the young. God Bless you and Rest in peace my brother.
How you can show support
Jaime
December 7, 2018
I just wanted to write and give my thoughts and prayers to the family of Marine Sgt. Merlin German The story of Merlin in my local newspaper stuck my heart, I cut it out and posted it on my kitchen refrigerator ,as a constant reminder of the sacrifice and strength of our armed forces and their family's. Over time the age and sun turned the paper yellow and started to curl I couldn't just throw it away, knowing that I would be some how throwing part of him away, with the thought that I would forget about him without it . So I hung it up by my garage door, seeing him as I left everyday. Its been over 10 years since his story was in our newspaper, and it stands as a constant reminder to me of the sacrifices made to protect my freedoms and keep my family safe. The story of Merlin written on paper may have aged and curled, but the sacrifice he made will live with me and my family forever!!
Semper Fidelis!!!!!
Juan Garcia
February 2, 2018
I think About you everyday, I miss you so much
Love you
Juancito
Jeff Robinson
April 17, 2017
It is with the utmost respect that I offer my condolences to the family of a true American Hero. Sergeant Merlin German May the memories of your Hero carry you through the days and years to come. May you rest in the knowledge that your duty was well done and you have the gratitude of an entire nation. I salute you. May your family find peace and comfort in the months to come in knowing you served proudly. May you rest in peace, for your mission is now complete. Stand down now and know that we will carry on your legacy of freedom for all our citizens. To your family and friends I ask that God comfort them now in their time of despair and remain with them as they adjust to their loss.
s
July 4, 2014
Never forgotten.
Joy Berends
June 3, 2014
May the Lord continue to comfort the loved ones of this amazing man.
Gary
May 27, 2014
No day shall erase you from the memory of time
May 26, 2014
G-d bless. Rest in peace. Never forgotten. Inspirational true hero.
May 26, 2014
Gods blessings & love
Sandra Makemson (Ohio)
Theresa
May 6, 2014
God Bless You !!!
Cyndi L, Rodriguez
January 21, 2014
I did not meet you in life but I met you in death. Thank you for your service. You touched my life greatly when you passed away. I will never forget you. I have my Merlin's Miracles T shirt, I treasure it.
irene rev.21:4
December 26, 2013
May God bless you and your family in this time of sorrow.
Lynne Neibert
July 1, 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
Joy Berends
June 9, 2013
Thank-you again for Merlin's service to our country, his amazing spirit and your sacrifice.
May the Lord continue to comfort you.
May 19, 2013
Never Ever Forgotten. Rest in peace.
lenore walker
March 26, 2013
thanks God Bless Bless You Always.
Gary
March 18, 2013
Never to be forgotten...a true American hero.
March 17, 2013
Remembering Merlin as the 10th anniversary of this war approaches. I will always be greatful to Merlin for his service and sacrifice for all of us. He was an inspiration to all of us.
MICHELLE
March 13, 2013
MERLIN MY HERO YOU WILL FOREVER BE MISSED
Gary
December 25, 2012
A true American hero.
Patsy Chambless
December 20, 2012
I look at this young man and I cannot but help to remember Ty who suffered such wounds as Merlin German.It saddens my heart to see such a Great Man leave this world so early in life.In return it makes me proud to see such a Hero give so much to this country.God Bless you Merlin German.I may not have known you personally but I do know you are a Great Hero to me.
Kris MICCIO
November 25, 2012
You are a hero for what you did off the battlefield as well as on. May you rest in the arms of the angels.
Collette Stevenson
October 25, 2012
Marine Sgt. Merlin German, You are an American Hero, One of the "Brave" Please would you from Heaven watch over US. Thank you and God bless you.
- collette
michelene clarke
October 25, 2012
God be with you always, your a hero and believe me won't ever forget you. Im a military widow.
henrietta foster
October 24, 2012
Thank you Merlin for protecting our great nation! God bless you and your family. I'm forever grateful! RIP.
July 6, 2012
To the German family,
May the wonderful memories of your loved one provide solace for you during this difficult time; and may God provide you with the assurance that you will see your loved ones again in Paradise. John 17:3
sheila
July 3, 2012
Remembering you everyday but especially approaching July 4. Your story really resonated within me. I am so sorry for the loss. You were truly an awesome inspiration to many. Rest in peace.
Shepherd
May 31, 2012
Thank you for serving our country. God Bless your family.
Gary
May 29, 2012
God bless Merlin and his family,
Millicent askew
May 25, 2012
Thank you.
CAROL MARTINEZ
May 24, 2012
i AM SO GREATFUL TO YOU , ALL YOU DID FOR ME AND MY COUNTRY, MAY YOU REST IN PEACE AND GOD BLESS YOUR FAMILY
Peggy Childers
April 12, 2012
April 11, 2012
To the family and friends of Sgt. Merlin German:
Always remembering Merlin. "Some gave all."
michelene clarke
February 8, 2012
I don't know what to say except you are a hero and thank you for protecting us, Im a military widow and know what your family is going through.
Linda Mack
February 1, 2012
God work was done, now you rest from all the hard work.
Mrs. Mack
E. K.
January 23, 2012
GOD BLESS!
corrinne waterhouse
December 21, 2011
Grief can be so hard during the holidays, but our special memories help us cope. Remembering you and your loved one this holiday season.
Gary
November 10, 2011
Remembering Merlin and the thousands of other heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice.God bless you all.
November 8, 2011
You are a TRUE Hero in every since of the word. My thoughts and prayers go out to his family and friends.. You are truly one in a million (felicia, NJ)
Lauren Acton
October 20, 2011
Remembering your great love story today and always.
sheila
September 25, 2011
I will never forget all I have read about you. May you rest in peace- I am so sorry that I never got the chance to meet you. You truly were one in a million and a great inspiration to all.
Rickie Fowler
September 9, 2011
In Decemeber 2005 I met and briely talked with The Magic Man, at BAMC. I was visiting my son Army Sgt Joseph Fowler. Joseph was hit and burned in Iraq, but has survied his injuries. Merlin was a good man a great Marine, and a true Hero.
sally brockitt
August 19, 2011
may god be with
thank for the great job
you are a special angel now in god hands
Sandi Richardson
August 18, 2011
I did not know SGT. Merlin German, but my thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends. I thank him for serving in our country's military.
Jon Bruce
June 21, 2011
Rest in Peace my Brother. Thank you for being the person you were. You are truly a Man Of Honor. Semper fi
Ari
June 5, 2011
To the German Family,
I am very sorry for the loss of your loved one, Merlin. What a couregous young man. His positive attitude is a lesson to us all. God gave us a promise that soon no one will have to give up thier lives so that others may live Isa 2:4 ...Nation will not lift sword against nation, neither will they learn war anymore... May we all find hope in this promise where God's peace will reside on earth.
May God give your family strength during this very difficult time.
Gary
May 30, 2011
Remembering this great American hero.RIP Merlin
L Greene
May 30, 2011
WOW! What a guy! Family should be real proud. May SGT. MERLIN GERMAN rest in peace and you find comfort in knowing that he is. MERLIN is remembered, especially on this MEMORIAL DAY. GOD BLESS
Sheryl
May 30, 2011
Thank you Merlin for the service that you gave for our freedom. May God bless your family.
Connie Pacifico
May 30, 2011
Thank you for your service and sacrifice that gave me freedom. It is appreciated and honored.
EILEEN MILLER
May 30, 2011
In memory of Sgt German who sacrificed his life for our freedom. May he R.I.P.
sheila
May 29, 2011
Stopping by here to let you know I think about Sgt German quite often. I remember the optimism during his long battle to recover and I was so saddened when he succumbed..... please know his(and his family) story truly touched me. Rest in peace- you will NEVER be forgotten
Earlie Alford
May 26, 2011
THANKS FOR THE ULTIMATE SACRIFICE,
SGT. GERMAN, REST IN PEACE.
To the German Family cherish the memory of your love one.
Linda Jackson
May 26, 2011
To the family and friends of SGT German, I am sorry for your loss of such a hero and wonderful person. His memory will live on and he was one of the reasons this country remains free. God bless you all.
Michael Springer
May 24, 2011
This Memorial Day, I am remembering those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. I am so grateful for your loved one's service.
L Neal
May 19, 2011
To the family of Sgt. Merlin German:
Please know that just as your loved one remains in your hearts and minds; his sacrifice, and that of your family, remains with the people he died defending. Words cannot express the gratitude we feel for his bravery and selflessness, or the heartache we feel for your loss. God bless and keep you always.
Gary
May 12, 2011
God bless Merlin and his family.
Ginger Mankowski
April 12, 2011
To the family and friends of Sgt. Merlin German:
Please accept our remembrance of Merlin on the anniversary of his passing and know that he will never be forgotten.
Ginger Mankowski/Peggy Childers
www.IraqWarHeroes.org
April 2, 2011
Thinking of you. You will never be forgotten. rest in peace.
December 5, 2010
You are thought about by so many. You are missed deeply.
So saddened about your loss... You were/are an amazing inspriation to so many.
September 11, 2010
thinking you today and all days.
Rest in peace. You are missed.
Erin
September 10, 2010
Thank you for your service and your sacrifice four our country. Rest in peace. I will not forget you. You are the reason I am free today.
September 8, 2010
THANK YOU SOLDIAR FOR YOUR SERVICE AND ULITMATE SACRIFICE TO THE UNITED STATES. YOU LIKE TOO MANY ARE GONE BEFORE THEIR TIME. SEMPER FI.
Donald Black
August 24, 2010
A thank you seems so small to someone who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Thank you family for our freedom.
Linda Glasper
July 16, 2010
My sympathy goes out to Mr. Germans' family. Sad he had to endure such a tragic incident. Thank you Merlin for your service to this country and for all you've done.Your pain is now and forever gone...To the German family...Psalm 121 Linda Glasper(St. Louis)
July 5, 2010
Such an inspiration to everyone. So sorry it ended so badly so soon. Merlin, I think of you often -and am sorry that I never did get to meet you.
Rest in peace- you have touched so many with your wonderful spirit. You can not be forgotten.
Afften Taycher
June 1, 2010
I just found this memorial about Merlin while I was working on a college project and once I read it I started bawling my eyes out. It is such a sad ending for someone that sounded so wonderful.
My boyfriend just returned safely from Iraq a month ago and after reading this I feel especially blessed to have him home and safe. The entire time he was gone I kept thinking, in the back of my head, what could happen while he was fighting for our country in Iraq.
I feel that soldiers- past and present- should be recognized more for their honor, courage, and compassion than they currently are. I am sad because I have never heard of Merlin's story and his courage until now. People like him should be recognized as the hero he was and will always be in our hearts.
Charlotte House
May 30, 2010
Let us remember the life he lived... To the Family of Merlin German, May you be comforted always by the Love of God. God Bless!!!!
April 17, 2010
Remembered ALWAYS.
Rest in peace.
Patty Germaine
April 12, 2010
to the family of Merlin German, may you be comforted always. Your son is a hero. My prayers for you.
olgarina rosario
April 11, 2010
miss you so much. You were a beautiful person inside and out and will neber be forgotten!
Jeanette Florentino
April 11, 2010
Today you have 2 years gone but you will never be forgotten. I cry everytime I see the pictures and video. It was a pleasure being in JHS with you am glad i had a chance to know you.
Peggy Childers
April 11, 2010
To the family and friends of Sgt. Merlin German:
Remembering Merlin 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
April 6, 2010
Thought again of you today. You are so missed. It just isn't right.
Rest in peace.
SSG Teelia Gooden
December 12, 2009
May God bless you SGT. Merlin German. You have made a lastin imprint here on earth and in the hearts of many across the world. Eventhough, you're now with the Angels in heaven, your memories still live on. God bless your family and friends and all the hearts you've touched.
Gary Crowe
November 15, 2009
A true American hero.God bless Merlin and his family
July 27, 2009
Remembering you.I know in my heart that you are pain free and happy where you are. You deserve that at the very least. You inspired so many with you spirit and humor. You have my unending admiration.
Bill
May 25, 2009
Rest In Peace. I did not know you in life but from all that I read you were an amazing person and that the world is a darker place with out you. I will never forget and I will always cherish your gift of Freedom.
May 11, 2009
you are the definition of hero. I am so sickened and saddened by your loss.
May 10, 2009
Never ever forgotten.
Rest in peace eternal.
Michael Aitken
April 21, 2009
Good on ya,mate.
LEST WE FORGET
Peggy Childers
April 12, 2009
To the family of Sgt. Merlin German:
Merlin 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
Ray Lentz
February 26, 2009
" Semper Fi"
MARIA ALCOSER
February 20, 2009
acompano en sus sentimientos a la familia de Merlin especialmente a su mama que todo el tiempo lo acompano en BAMC Dios lo tenga en su santa gloria y crea que tanto que la queria a usted ,el sigue a su lado.Muchos besos y abrasos fue un placer conocerlos.DESCANSA EN PAZ MERLIN!
diana mieses
February 11, 2009
wow i cant believe merlin passed away we had good times in junior highschool he used to make me laugh so much rest in peace merlin you will always be in our memory
Ana Mendez
February 10, 2009
A la familia de Sgt. Merlín Germán:
Antes que nada deseo expresarles mis más sinceras condolencias por el fallecimiento de su ser querido. La muerte de alguien a quien amamos siempre es dolorosa, pero lo es aun más cuando es rodeada de circunstancias trágicas como en este caso.
Al leer los comentarios de familiares y amigos de Merlín es fácil ver que fue un hombre fuerte y con mucha determinación, pues luchó por su vida hasta el último momento. En él se cumplieron las palabras que menciona la Biblia en Eclesiastés 3: 11 donde dice: “Aun el tiempo indefinido ha puesto en el corazón de ellos”. Así es, Dios ha puesto el deseo de vivir para siempre en el corazón del hombre y por eso nos es difícil aceptar la perdida de nuestros seres queridos. Podemos tener la plena seguridad de que Dios no es el culpable de estas desgracias pues en Job 34: 10 dice: “¡Lejos sea del Dios [verdadero] el obrar inicuamente, y del Todopoderoso el obrar injustamente!”
En vez de Dios ser el causante de nuestro sufrimiento, él es el único que nos da una esperanza segura. En Revelación 21: 4 promete: “Y limpiara toda lagrima de sus ojos, y la muerte no será más, ni existirá ya mas lamento ni clamor ni dolor. Las cosas anteriores han pasado”. ¡Qué gran alegría da saber que muy pronto no habrá nada que nos haga sufrir!
“Así como el Padre levanta a los muertos y los vivifica, así el Hijo también vivifica a los que él quiere. […] No se maravillen de esto, porque viene la hora en que todos los que están en las tumbas conmemorativas oirán su voz [la de Jesús] y saldrán”. (Juan 5: 21, 28, 29) Muy pronto llegará el día en que Merlín Germán oirá la voz de Jesús y será levantado del sueño en el que ahora se encuentra.
Una vez más, reciban mi más sentido pésame por la muerte de Merlín. Espero sinceramente que estas palabras y escrituras bíblicas sirvan de ánimo y alivio al gran dolor que deja la perdida de alguien amado. Si desean pueden comunicarse con migo por este medio.
Sinceramente,
Ana Méndez
T Starman
January 13, 2009
I offer my deepest condolences for your loss
Bill
December 28, 2008
Thank you Sgt. Merlin German,
You are not forgotten, you were one of our nations best. I will always cherish your gift.
My only wish is to be granted a small fraction of your courage so I can live a life worthy of your sacrifice.
Rest In Peace
Kenna Larra
November 22, 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
Lcpl Matt Howard
November 13, 2008
Sgt German....You are still an inspiration to us all. Semper Fi my brother.
September 25, 2008
you are thought about more than you could imagine. each and every day. you are missed dearly.
rest in peace.
September 4, 2008
Remembered and missed. Today and every day.
Missing you-
July 31, 2008
Merlin-
I think of you so often- I did not know you but after reading about you I was deeply touched. Please know you will never be forgotten. Rest in peace, sweet soul.
Tom Gugliuzza-Smith
July 21, 2008
My heartfelt sympathy to the German family and friends in the loss of Merlin. I did not know Merlin, 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. Merlin you are my 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~
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