Garden Grove, California
A Navy SEAL sacrificed his life to save his comrades by throwing himself on top of a grenade Iraqi insurgents tossed into their sniper hideout, fellow members of the elite force said. Petty Officer 2nd Class Michael A. Monsoor had been near the only door to the rooftop structure Sept. 29 when the grenade hit him in the chest and bounced to the floor, said four SEALs who spoke to The Associated Press this week on condition of anonymity because their work requires their identities to remain secret. "He never took his eye off the grenade, his only movement was down toward it," said a 28-year-old lieutenant who sustained shrapnel wounds to both legs that day. "He undoubtedly saved mine and the other SEALs'' lives, and we owe him." Monsoor, a 25-year-old gunner, was killed in the explosion in Ramadi, west of Baghdad. He was only the second SEAL to die in Iraq since the war began. Two SEALs next to Monsoor were injured; another who was 10 to 15 feet from the blast was unhurt. The four had been working with Iraqi soldiers providing sniper security while U.S. and Iraqi forces conducted missions in the area.
I enlisted because of people like him, because of people who are willing to fight and die for their fellow man. To me, they're worth dying for, because there's a bond between brothers, and that bond transcends blood. Requiescate in pace.
Christopher Shelley
October 14, 2019 | Fort Sam Houston, TX
His sacrifice has not gone unnoticed. Michael Monsoor is a hero for all the world to know about and appreciate. His life and unfortunate death are inspiring. Words seem insufficient to recognize him as the most honorable, decent, unselfish, brave man who gave his life to save others. Surely there is a special place in God's realm for him. Rest in peace, Michael Monsoor. As for his family, please accept my deepest sympathy.
D Rabey
January 11, 2019 | Chicago, IL
Such an amazing man! Each time I read of Michael's sacrifice I'm so amazed & heartbroken. Thank-you for raising such a great son. May the Lord comfort you. Thank-you for Michael's service & his and your sacrifices.
Joy Berends
September 23, 2018 | Galveston, TX
As we approach the Anniversary of Mikey's sacrifice, I want to tell you about this man. I served with him in the Military and I can tell you that he was humble and would do just about anything asked of him to help. He was one of the best men I've ever met and although we were merely colleagues, I still mourn his every Memorial Day and September 29th. I try to honor his life and death by remembering his example and trying to emulate it because even when he was faced with some of the least...
Marah Anderton
September 22, 2018 | Arlington, WA | Military
Your act and demonstrated honor is a high standard for all of us. May you always rest in peace knowing that we remember you and your sacrifice. Your parents and family are also remembered, as they too have borne the pain of your absence.
Al Hart
June 22, 2017 | Columbus, NC
R.i.p. Officer Michael A. Monsoor.
August 03, 2015 | W.R. WI
Hi, I was a volunteer at the Bob Hope USO @ LAX for ten years and currently on occasion volunteer at the USO in San Diego. I believe I had the honor and pleasure of meeting Mr. Monsoor there. It is heart breaking to hear that, he is gone. But I know that, he died doing something he loved. He has a grateful nation forever in his debt!
Rose Garcia
August 01, 2015 | Glendale
Thank-you again for Michael's service and your sacrifice. Praying for the loved ones of the fallen this weekend especially.
May the Lord continue to comfort you.
Joy Berends
May 23, 2014 | Galveston, TX
Michael....your sacrifice will never go in vain........you give me inspiration......to live life for others.........wherever you are.....may u always be in peace...
Shabnam Azad
May 22, 2014 | Jorhat