Staff Sgt. Michael Thomas

I just recently found out about Michael´s death. Although I hadn´t spoken to him in decades I remember him so fondly. My three daughters used to call him their big brother when he and I served together in the 978th Military Police Company. Life just got in the way of keeping in touch. I pray for Teresa who I also knew back in El Paso. I pray for his children that I never met and his grandchildren. God bless his gentle soul. He was the best soldier I ever knew.

Hey Uncle Mikey, it´s Adalyn <3 I may not have had enough time to meet you but I think about you mostly every day. I look up to you so much! Meme tells me so much about you and how you loved Metallica and shows me pictures of your super cool guitars. I just redid one all by myself, I think you´d be super proud! I´m going to a few rock concerts this year and I´m gunna be a Junior! I love you a lot, and I know Michael and Mac Mac and my momma and meme and aunt Cassie do too. Love, your niece Adalyn

I knew Michael through a mutual foundness of collecting Bucs game used memorabilia. Was thinking of Michael today, he was a good man and was grateful to have known him.

I was deeply saddened to find out today that an old friend had died. I had known Michael or "Thomas" as I referred to him for years in school. I considered him my closest friend in high school. He even went to my wedding and caught the garter. I have thought of him often through the years. He was an incredible person. If he must have left us so soon I am proud to know he served my country. To his mother who I adored I am deeply sorry for your loss. It sounds like he touched many people's lives as profoundly as he touched mine.

Hey dad...you're with us all the time...it's truly amazing how your love shines even through death. There's not a day that goes by that I don't wish things would have all been different. My brother needs you...I need you...mom needs you...even your grandbabies ask about you. You see how they're growing?! And your new baby baby girl Autumn...when I see my bubby with her I see you how you were with Alexis. I am so lucky to have those memories at least. You're forever in our broken hearts. Our broken chain...I want to thank you for everything you taught me and for the love you showed me. Idk what would've become of me if you hadn't been put into my life. Thank you for every time you send your love from heaven, it's really amazing to see it...say hi to those loved ones with you. You're missed by so many down here...I love you...so much....be with us daddy...don't ever leave us. Be with my babies when I can't be with them...protect them and send your love...God has blessed me with a protector on earth and in heaven. You're awesome daddy...always our hero.

Love your baby girl,

Mike! Brother! Miss you every day.

Memorial Day and every day is for you!

Hey Mike! Thinking of you this Memorial Day. Know you will always be my hero!

Rest in Peace Hero, our Grateful Nation Salutes You.... Welcome Home

Thinking of you buddy! You will never be forgotten. May God eternally bless your family.

Thank you SSG Michael Thomas for your service and sacrifice for all of us.

Thinking of you Mike.

To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Michael Thomas:
Always remembering Michael. "Some gave all."

Hey CATDADDY, I found your Sister on FB and we corresponded back and forth a few times. I owe her some information from the last time she contacted me. I finally retired. Miss you my Brotha. I still talk about you. R.I.P. and continue to watch over us.

Miss you Mike...I know you stand guard over all our brothers and sisters that go into harms way. A true friend you always were...its been 5 yrs now, but you have not been forgotten. God bless your family.

Today, marks five years since Mike left us. Mike played such a big role in my life for the short time that I knew him. I often think about how Mike would handle a situation when I'm feeling confused. There are no words that can express my anger for Mike being taken away from us. When my son was born a few years ago, I gave his middle name; Ryan “Michael” Gallagher in honor of Mike. I look forward to when he is older to show him photos of Mike and show him what a true hero looks like. Miss you Mike; You are not forgotten.

Son its been five years my angel, they say as time passes the pain lessens, not true. Not a day goes by that my heart doesn't ache for your sweet hugs,loving talks, happiness that you brought to all of us. Your baby niece is going to be 5 next month, and your nephew is going to be 3, how sad that they aren't going to be able to enjoy their Uncle Mikey, but they already know all about you, I play your voice for them that I still have on my phone..They love your huge shoes, and they will always know their Uncle Mikey loves them. I still look at the moon every night and remember that we are looking at it together. Your sisters are strugling as am I.. Time doesn't ease the pain. I muddle through the days,some days are better than others but the ache in my heart never goes away. What I would give for one more hug, just one last time to tell you how proud of the man you became,how honerable you were. I love you son. I wish you were here to fix me, I feel so broken,Your family will forever be greatful for what you shared with us and greatful to God for allowing us to be a part of your amazing life.I LOVE YOU WHOLE INFINITY, WHOLE HEART AND MRE SPOON. LOVE FOREVER YOUR MOM

My angel, its year five and its not getting any easier. We think of you every day,sometimes all day, God gave me such a blessing when he blessed me with you... You kept everyone together, and it seems like we are slowly falling apart. You told me we would be fine if something happened to you, well not true. Please everyone that reads this pray for God to heal this world, it seems so broken. I love and miss you my angel.. We will carry on!!!!! never, never forgotten!!! Mike Thomas I LOVE YOU,FOREVER MY ANGEL

SSG Catdaddy, You are truly missed. Well, my time in uniform is coming to an end but I will continue my work with the young men and women of all Services. Take care Brotha and continue to watch over us. Blessings to the family....

Thinking of you and your beloved family. As a Military Mom, I especially thank you. You are not forgotten. Rest in peace brave hero.

Hello my angel, I miss you everyday. It never gets easier!!!! not a day goes by that we don't talk about you or think about you, always with a smile, sometimes with tears. I love you Mike Thomas

SSG Mike “T-Money” Thomas was a great man and a better soldier. Mike was a good friend like a brother to me and taught me how to be a great soldier and human being. I miss him on a daily basis and always remember watching the Bucs play with him. Mike was the model leader and earned everything he ever achieved. I have many stories of the times Mike, myself and the guys from the SRT had training and out on the town. Mike also was a great father and loved his family dearly; Craig had a great role model and a hero as a father. Mike served his country as a hero and paid the ultimate price. He was a true warrior, NCO, and mentor to me and many other soldiers that he came into contact with. He expected nothing less than the best from his soldiers or himself. Mike I miss you and thank you for everything you ever did and taught me. I am a better man from being your friend and soldier. Teresa, Diana and Craig I am sorry for your loss and miss all of you. I am here if needed and Love you all. Mike my friend I miss you and safe a place on the couch so we can watch Bucs games again.

11/11/11, 7pm-11pm (Veteran's Day)
Family and friends are gathering in a circle around a campfire to honor Mike Thomas. Mike exemplified friendship, fun and love of those dear to him, so we are attempting to carry on and maintain our friendship connections by uniting for a night of fun, stories and reminiscing.
[email protected]

I'm sure SSG Thomas is in charge of something in Heaven, because he was a true leader without trying. He was a leader, mentor, inspiration, a swift kick in the rear if needed, and most of all a dear friend. It was an honor working along his side, GO BUCS!!"

ssg. thomas was a awesome leader and a respected person. i remember when i first arrived at ft. sam houston he was a desk sergeant and a very good one. he would also give me words of encouagement everyday and those words help me to be the nco i am today. ssg. thomas you will be truly miss by everyone who served with you. go bucs!!!!

To the family of Staff Sgt. Michael Thomas:
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.

To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Michael Thomas:
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

SSgt Michael D. Thomas, I just wanted to stop in and say thank you on this the anniversary of your passing. I did not have the honor of knowing you, but from reading the many comments left for you here, I know that your were a fine Soldier, you were respected and loved by those who served with you, and you have a family that love and miss you very much. Thank you for all that you have given.
To the Family: You are in my prayers this day, may God grant you all peace and comfort.

On this Veteran's Day, I am thinking of Mike and his influence on me. I will never forget how hard you punched me square in the shoulder and knocked me back into a wall the day I pinned on SGT stripes. It hurt to move my arm for a week! You will never be forgotten Mike.

Words can"t define how much I miss you Mike! I still see that skinny 15yr old kid with amazing musical talent we used to sneak into clubs to play lead guitar. Not a second goes bye I don"t think of you!My wife and I had a new son.Born Jun.30,2009 we named him in honor of you.I pray Michael will be a man with a heart of gold. Like you Mr.Thomas. We love you!

Not one day passes without at least a thought of you.. You were such a great man and a role model for me. I looked up to you soo much and I wanted to be like you. You were a hero to me and always will be. I will forever miss you my brother!!

The sorrow never leaves, and neither do the wonderful memories of your sweetness. You were the most loving son a mom could ever want, I was truly blessed to have the most wonderful children. Thanks son for all the wonderful memories you left me with.Missing you everyday, love forever and ever. Your mom

Spent Memorial Day with your mom, sisters, niece, nephew and dad....we're still here missing you while you're there watching out for us and laughing your head off at how ridiculous we can be. We love you, Mike Thomas!!!!! Forever your friend, Donna-doo

I wanted to take a momment today to let you know that SSGT Thomas is always my thoughts and prayers ad will never be forgotten

To the family and friends of Staff Sgt. Michael Thomas:
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

Hey Mike. Still thinking of you every day. The sun is out and winter is over and I look up to the sky and think of you every time I leave my house. You are a hero my man and I know you dont want to hear that, but you are.

CONCERT In Honor/Memory of
Michael Thomas
Friday November 13, 2009; 7pm;
First Baptist Church of Mango
11619 E Dr Martin Luther King Jr Blvd
Seffner, FL 33584


Saturday November 14th, 2009; 12:00pm
Ceremonies to remember and honor
SSG Michael Thomas
On MLK Jr. Blvd
1/2 block east of Broadway & MLK
Seffner / Mango FL 33584

Any questions, call Donna 813.610.8372
or email [email protected]

Mike, Mom and I met with the Chamber of Commerce today to begin planning a concert for you, Friday November 13th to help raise money for a Michael Thomas Scholarship fund to keep your memory alive. We're also looking forward to a special ceremony to celebrate your life on Saturday, November 14th at the 2nd Annual Veterans' Day SeffnerFest! We're hoping all of your friends come out to support you, your family, and your scholarship fund. We all love and miss you every single day. hugs and kisses, "Donna-doo"
[email protected]

Mike, Just finished school and moved to Riley. I just wanted to drop by and let you know that you are still in our thoughts and your family is still in our prayers.

Michael, It's Memorial Day and we are remembering you as a soldier. But to your friends and family, you are in our thoughts on so many days. Aunts, uncles, and cousins remember the happiness you brought to each of us. Sisters wish their babies could have known their Uncle Mike--his special love and humor. Dad's grief is held inside and he tries to be strong for his family. Mom continues to be the center of the family and gives her love and support for both of you. Craig and Teresa are trying to make you proud while they grieve and miss you so much.

You are with Grandma and Grandpa now. We know you loved them dearly and that the three of you are together now.

Cousin Dot

It's memorial day and I wanted to stop by and thank you and your family for making the ultimate sacrifice. U are missed! God Bless our troops!

Hello My Friend. It's that time again buddy. Can't believe how time has been flying by. You are truly loved and missed. God Bless your family.

To the family of Staff Sgt. Michael Thomas:
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

We love our Soldiers! We love our country and we cannot express enough love and compassion to the families. War does not discriminate – It breaks my heart to see the faces of the fallen. We want to give this gift to you. We are a 501c3 nonprofit organization! Over 1,300 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,
Kenna

Hey Biscuit Head :-), You know I miss those days at Fort McClellan, Alabama when we processed Soldiers into the ARMY. You are truly missed. Blessings to your Family. Stay encouraged Family. God has a Plan....

My dearest Son, things are not getting any easier, I bet you are up there wishing I would give you a break, I talk to you everyday. I can't stop thinking about you. My heart stays so heavy, I see you everywhere, in the pool with Craig, in the kitchen when we made a gingerbread house for the Nursing home, Teresa making gingerbread house with Craig and you making the bucaneer cookie shooting a bird that got put with the cookies for the nurses by accident. Boy was that a hoot. Those nurses got the biggest laugh at you. And how happy your grandmother (mom) was to see her michael. You were loved by everyone always, and are missed so terribly. The pain in my heart never stops. I still need and wish you were here to talk to me, I feel lost without you. I love you my tickle momas. You are never forgotten. And loved with every inch of my soul. Mom

You are remembered and respected. Thank you Staff Sgt Thomas!

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.

You will never be forgotten.

A year has gone and there is not a day that goes by when you are not in my thoughts. You continue to be my inspiration.

Holding you all in my thoughts and prayers today.


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 on
this day he gave his all.
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)


Sincerely,

Deb Estep ~ Ohio
Proud Air Force Mom and MIL

Remembering The Fallen – Blog
http://tinyurl.com/3z8p55

The Other Side
http://tinyurl.com/3o8gol

A dear friend, and a great NCO. I don't say great Soldier becuase he is more than your average, he was a leader, a mentor, a friend to all, and a great fighter. You are missed greatly Michael, and I can say it was a privelege to have served with you. "Air Assualt"

Mike,

It's almost been a year now and I think of you every day. You will always be remembered!!!

I had the honor to serve with Mike at Fort Sam Houston for three years. I have very fond memories of him as a Desk Sergeant and the great sense of humor that he had. Mike was a strong leader and a great man. Mike you will be missed by many and remembered by all......


"DUTY, HONOR, JUSTICE"

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!!

PROUD MOTHER OF A U.S. SOLDIER
Currently stationed in Germany
Althea Barrett(Queens, NY)

Sincere sympathy and love, Pat - R.N.

Thank you for the sacrifice made by Staff Sgt Thomas and the sacrifice made by everyone who loves and misses him! May God bless all of you!!

My name is SSG Bruce McClendon. SSG Thomas was my Platoon Sergeant when we were in Korea in 2004. I am so sorry for your loss, he was a good guy and he was a good friend.

SSG Thomas was a true to life soldier. I have fond memories of time spent with him at Ft. Sam Houston Texas. He was a tough guy. He took his job very seriously and in turn his soldiers did as well. My prayers go out to his loved ones. He will be missed. Until we meet again in that big Army in the sky........
SGT Russell

To the friends and family of SSG Thomas. My thoughts and support are with you.

My deepest sympathy to the family of Staff Sgt Thomas. May you find comfort in your loving memories, and know that all of America shares in your sorrow and in your pride. My flag flies in honor of this brave young man

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 SON. I PRAY THAT PEACE WILL FIND YOU ALL SOMEDAY. GODSPEED AND SEMPER FI.

A PROUD MARINE MOM

I just want to say that it was an honor serving with SSG(P) Thomas in the 142nd MP CO in Korea. SSG Thomas was and outstanding Soldier and a great NCO. SSG Thomas will be missed and God Bless his Family and you will be in my prayers.

I had just recently learned of SSG Thomas' death, and my deepest sympathy's go to his family. I first got to know him about 5 yrs ago when I was stationed with him at Ft. Sam Houston. My first impression was that he was one of the scariest men I ever met. As time went on I got to realized that he was a great man and a great soldier. It was a true honor to be lead by him. I always knew that no matter what kind of mood he was in, I could get him to smile by asking about his son or bringing up the Bucs! SSG Thomas you will truly be missed.

This SSG was one of my dearest friends in Korea, he had a heart of gold and never let his comrades down. He will be missed dearly, my prayers go to his family.

Mike. You are my hero. To those that did not have the privlage to know Mike, you have missed out. I will charish the time I spent with you. It feels so unreal, as I just got the news today. You did die doing what you loved and I am sure you gave them hell. A day won't go bye without me thinking of you. To Theresa, I am so sorry. Words can not heal or help but hopefully time will dull the pain. You know Mike was a special guy. If you need ANYTHING!!!! Don't hesitate to ask. I greave with you for my dear friend.

Our hearts are heavy as we mourn your death, Mike. We honor your commitment to freedom and your sacrifice for us all. We know you served with the best of the best. May God Bless you always and all who knew and loved you.

We honor your last full measure of devotion. You will never be forgotten.

In the long and honored history of America
There are names that shine like beacons in the night
The Patriots whose vision gave us meaning
Who kept the lamp of freedom burning bright

In the long and honored history of America
There are those that paid the last and final price
Who were called upon by chance, or desperate circumstance
To make the ultimate sacrifice

A grateful nation bows its head in sorrow
And in thanks for guaranteeing our tomorrow
The last full measure of devotion
That's what they gave to the cause

The last full measure of devotion
And though they cannot hear our applause
We honor them forever and keep alive their story
Pay tribute to their lives and give them all the glory

The last full measure of devotion
Beyond the call of duty were their deeds
The last full measure of devotion
They gave themselves to serve the greater need

And for those who did survive
And came back home alive
They join in praise of comrades who were slain
And highly resolved, most highly resolved
That these dead shall not have died in vain

I am a Proud Military Mom of 3 Men-2 Army, 1 Navy

Mike,
I spoke to you the day before your mission, and today I find out that you wont be calling back. I cant put into words how much you meant to me, but I will miss you forever. You will always be my cherry...and my Battle. I will see you again...but until then...I will miss you everyday...

SSG Thomas, you will not be forgotten. Thanks again for all the help you offered me in my time of need while we were in the 142nd. I will never forget that. I still remember the last time I saw him it was at FT Bragg and he had just received his SF Tab. Youll be in our prayers.

Will and I put the flag back up today, Bro. It’s Memorial Day here. It had been flying at half mast since the day you fell at the firefight. We should have put it up yesterday, the 30 day mark, but… no one really wanted to. We just stood and looked at it, knowing its time had come.

We got to talking about you last night while looking at the flag in the breeze. We talked about you for a couple of hours underneath a nearly full moon wondering why it had to be you. Needless to say, we went through a lot of cigarettes.

Nobody lived like you, Bro, nobody. I swear, we don’t remember a single moment you weren’t happy and full of life. You always had to be doing something. Even when you’d throw your back out and come ask me for some meds, you’d be smiling and joking. How’d you do it Bro? How did you live every minute of your life to the fullest?

Not too much has changed here. We keep pushing forward trying to make a difference. I think we’re succeeding. Chuck still tells the story about the poor widow you gave a sewing machine to here so she could feed her little kids. We still tell how you’d give the last of anything you had for a friend and go with out if we asked it of you. We don’t joke about your first day on the team as much anymore though. Probably cause the team’s face has changed a lot since then.

It’s crazy, Bro. The clock keeps ticking and the world keeps changing, but we don’t love you any less.

It’s getting late here. It’s about that time you’d come over to my desk and tell me about what you’d just heard on the phone or read in an e-mail about your family. The last time you told me how excited you were that your daughter might be coming to Bragg because your son-in-law was considering going to the Q-course. You looked like a gitty little kid when you got the news, with your Buc’s ball cap on backwards flipping a football around in the OPCEN. It still makes me laugh to this day when I think of your child like spirit.

We have a box here with a couple things for Teresa and Craig. We’ll get them sent out to them as soon as we get a bird going to KAF. I hope Teresa understands why it took so long to get it to her.

We all pray your family is adjusting to not having you like they did before. Keep your head up. You’ll be together again, Bro.

We Miss You.

Just found out about this today. I was stationed in Korea with SSG Thomas. He cared so much about the troops. I learned a lot from him. I remember when he went to SFAS, he was so happy. I also ran into him at Bragg after he graduated. He was even happier.
No words can express how I feel but I can tell you that he made a very big impact on me and everyone else he came in contact with.
RIP Brother. You will not be forgotten

My heartfelt sympathy to the Thomas 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 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~

To the family, friends and teammates of SSG Michael Thomas,
I knew Mike only in passing, being part of the small community he fought with and died for. Speaking, Im sure, on behalf of all those a part of OEF, we are very sorry for yor loss. My thoughts and prayers are with you through these trying times...
SGT Joshua Petrecky

We are saddened at the loss of this fine young soldier, a hero. May God comfort and embrace you as only He can. You are in our thoughts and prayers.
In loving memory of our nephew
Lance Cpl James R Davenport KIA 11/22/06

I didn't know Michael but I work with his father. Bob spoke with much pride in his son. I mourn with the family in their loss. Be comforted to know that one day you will be reunited. May God comfort the family in those times when they are sad. I pray that your memories of Michael remind you of the fine person he was and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his county. Blessings to you all!

I've worked with Bob Kirkpatrick many years. We are all truly sorry for the loss of your dear hero son, Michael. Thank you for the values and courage of this fine man.

I never knew you personally, but I know that you were a good-hearted man and a hero. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family.

Our very best thoughts and prayers are with you guys, we sincerely hope you find the strength to cope with this terrible loss. We never had the pleasure of meeting SSG Thomas unfortunately, but now he is in a better place. God Bless You.

My thoughts and prayers go out to your family. Although I had never had the chance to meet you, I always heard nothing but good things of you. It saddens me deeply that I never did have the chance to meet such a wonderful cousin like you, but hearing what I have hear and read, I feel as if I have known you for some time. Thank you for the greatest service one could perform for their family and country, as you have done, and please take care of my dad who I am sure is keeping you company right now.

You are in our thoughts and prayers.

Sorry to hear about this lose. It is terrible to hear about fallen soldiers. I have lost 2 good friends of mine. From my unit back home. That went to Iraq.

There are no words at a time like this. I wish that there was something that I could say to help take your pain away. I will say that I honestly believe that the soul lives on and the body is only a human vehicle form to be used on earth. Michael is still with you and always will be. You're in my thoughts and prayers.

Mike was always funny guy and hell of a leader. He was one of my first NCO'S to teach the MP field to me. He taught me so much about the S.R.T. tactics and what it means to be a soldier. My sympahy goes out to his family and S.F. team. Thanks for what you have taught me about being a person and being a Militay Police Officer.

Corbet

I knew Mike through our mutual friend Donna. From the first time I met Mike, I knew right away that he was just a boy in a man's body: always silly, always smiling, always loving and social and one of the best things about Mike was that he brought those qualities out in the people he was around. He was blessed (as were they) to have a wonderful and genuinely kind family (his Mom and Dad and two beautiful sisters) who always welcomed my kids and I into their home for any function. Mike was a man of integrity and honor and from what I saw of his son Craig and daughter Diana, he has done a phenomenal job of instilling that in them and through them, Mike will live on. I was blessed to have known Mike. He was an inspiration to us all.

My wonderful husband.
I am very thankful to God for having you in my life and giving me the opportunity to love you and be a part of your life. The years that we spent together have been the best of my life because you loved me and gave me a son, and you loved our daughter so much. Thank you for being a wonderful dad a good hearted man and especially for the times we shared with each other and both laughed at each others silly things. I know that you are not with us anymore, God has taken you under his wings and I know you are with him and you are watching over us. You will always be in my heart and I will always love you. You are our hero, my hero who give his life for all of us. Miss you.
Your BABY DOLL
Love You Forever and I will see you one day.

"He died doing what he wanted to do and doing what he loved. He died for all of us."
Craig Thomas, 8 yrs old. Song of SSG Michael D. Thomas

My thoughs and prayers are with Mike's family during this time. I will always remember Mike as a great leader and outstanding soldier. I feel honored to have served with him. You will be missed but never forgotten.

Dear Bob, Debbie and family,

I am so sorry for your loss. I'm sure you have wonderful memories of your own of him, but it is so good to read the wonderful things that others have to say about him too. Take care,

May God always watch over his family and he always be remembered for his heroism and sacrifice.

To the family of SSG Thomas:
My deepest sympathy to each of you. I wanted to share with you that I had the pleasure of meeting SSG Thomas and working with him for nearly a year here at Ft. Bragg. He was a great person to be around. Although I never met you, I'd like you to know he spoke of you (his family) often and always had a smile that would light up a room when mentioning you.
My heart is saddened by the loss of such a wonderful individual. Please accept my deepest sympathy and know that my thoughts and prayers are with you. May God Bless each of you during this most difficult time.

To the family of Sgt. Michael Thomas:

My name is Captain Rebecca McAbee, and I am a member of the MN Air National Guard. First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to the family of Sgt. Thomas. I am at a loss for words other than to say I'm truly sorry and my prayers are with you.

The reason I am writing this is because I, along with my crew, just returned from a tour of duty in Afghanistan flying C-130 cargo planes and we were the crew that transported Michael after he was killed. Unfortunately, this is not the first time we have transported an American soldier who was KIA, but this time in particular was extremely moving and difficult. When we arrived to transport Michael his squadron was there as well, and we could see by the looks on their faces how deeply they had been affected by the loss of Michael. Some of them got on the plane with Michael and were with him the entire time. We all stood in the back and saluted him as he was carried off the plane.

I have since gone back home to my family in Minnesota, but thoughts of this soldier that we transported have never been far from my mind. I have been praying for his family and friends, and until today I didn't even know his name. I decided to do some research and figured out by the date and the location that the man we carried was Sgt. Thomas. I just wanted to tell you how sorry we all are for your loss. I also have a very moving picture of the members of his squadron saluting Michael as he was carried onto the aircraft that I would like to pass on to a member of Michael's family. Please contact me and I will make sure that you get it.

Again, my deepest sympathies are with your family at this time.

Teresa, Diana, Craig, Alexis, and the rest of Mike's family, you have my deepest sympathy. We haven't seen each other in years, but Mike always sent email updates and kept in touch. I have a personal folder on my computer full of pictures from him at Halloween with Craig and in Afghanistan. Mike loved life and anyone around him would find themselves smiling as his love of life, family, and country was contagious. The world is a dimmer place without his bright shining smile. I still smile when I remember the day he found out he was having a son. He cracked us up saying his son's name would be Craig Alexander Thomas so he could be a C.A.T. daddy. He will be sorely missed.

As you start to walk this road, please know that the thoughts and prayers of those of us from your 7th SFG family who know it (too well) are with you constantly.

Emily Munoz
wife of CPT Gil Munoz, ODA 774
9 Feb 2005

Michael-moo, words cannot express the loss that your family and friends feel. I know you were doing what you loved and you would not have been happy if you hadn't been doing exactly what you were doing. You are one of a kind. I can honestly say that I do not have a single bad memory of you. When I think of you I cannot help but smile and remember your goofy faces, the incredible amount of crab legs you could eat in one sitting, or you in the pool with all our children lining up repeatedly so that you could throw them in the water for the hundreth time in a row. Some friends come and go in life, some friends are for life. You were a lifetime friend. We were all supposed to get old together, but God had another plan. We all failed when we said we wouldn't cry if anything happened to you, but you would be happy to know that there has also been alot of laughter and togetherness as we have all shared our memories of you. You brought alot of love and joy to this world in your short time here. I will always love you.

This is probably the hardest thing I will have to do. I have looked up to Michael as a big brother. I was one when I was first introduced to him and his family. I have fond memories of him being the protective older brother. I still hear his words threatening me not to get married until I am 35. Mike was always there for people. He liked to pick them up when they were down. He always had a silly grin and funny faces when you needed to laugh. I definetly will not forget him. Once he touched your life he stuck in your thoughts and your heart. Michael you will be missed. My thoughts are with your family and friends. And in my promise to you, we will keep in touch with your family and friends. Because I now realize life is too short.

You will always be remembered as a great person, and a leader of men. I will miss you.

Knowing Mike since he was 4, I know I must write something in his guest book, but I try and try to come up with something to say, yet I can't. I watch the news and read the paper about "a hero, Michael Thomas" and I catch myself holding my breath not wanting to allow it to sink in, wishing it wasn't true. Knowing how much he was loved by EVERYONE he knew and wondering how we'll all get through. Before he even left for Afghanistan, he told us all to be strong if he didn't return. "Don't cry," he said, "Have a party! Drink some beer!" While he was there he wrote, "Having a great time. This is just like being on vacation." We know he was doing what he loved and with guys who were like brothers to him. We try to comfort our broken hearts with that, but we're still going to miss him! Until we meet again, we'll have to keep our promises that we all made to him. We must remember the good times (which is easy because that's all there were); the many silly faces of Mike Thomas that made us all laugh; the lectures he gave us on life; to love the Bucs (no matter what); to make time for friends (even if we think we're too busy); to play to win; to laugh often (becuase we always did with him); to hug often those who are near (because we all need it); and to love like there's no tomorrow, because all we're guaranteed is this moment, right now. Although my mortal mind thinks our time was too short, I am forever grateful for the 30 years I was blessed with your presence. Because of you, Mike Thomas, I will hold fast to my dreams.
With love and hugs, Donna-doo

Mike,

You are a brother to us. You will always be apart of ODA 713. I was with you that fateful day and have had a difficult time accepting what has happened. I was with you from the time it happened until your hearse drove away. Your teammates never left your side and never will. I know you were watching over us that day and kept the rest of us safe. There is so much to say about you Mike. You are a great soldier and a great teammate. I will never forget you.

Mike was like a second son to us - my Mike coached him in little league for about 5 yrs - he was an awsome catcher! Debbie, Bob, Christa, Cassie and Mike - we always thought of you as family. Mike stayed many a night at our house and Chris stayed with Mike - we have many fond memories and he always stayed in touch - Mike just talked to him like 2 wks ago from Afghanistan. We love you all and will miss him dearly. He served his country well and now he is serving God.

We sat down and all wrote something last night at 10:35PM.

My daddy was a very mean, kind, gentle, and a very fun dad. But I only new him for 8 years because he died in Afghanistan. He was born November 29, 1972 and he died April 27, 2007. He died as a daddy, grandpa, old man, husband, son, and brother. He was a very nice, fun, tough, magnificent, smart, and a goofy daddy. He died at the age of 34. Cinco de Mayo! Bye daddy.
Love, Your son
Craig Alexander Thomas
A.K.A. C.A.T.!

He never thought of me as anything different than HIS DAUGHTER. He showed me what a true dad is about and how much love a person can have. This is unbelievable and completely shocking. I'll miss him with all my heart and he'll never be too far away. Always in my heart and mind...I love him so much and I'll always be his baby girl. I'll watch over my baby brother and try to help my mom as much as I can. I'll take care of his grandbabies or he'll come down and beat my butt. My husband and I are stuck together for life and we better not mess up cause dad will make us pay the consequences. :) I'll see him one day in heaven again. One day daddy...come home. I love you so much! Love,
Your baby girl
Diana Garcia

Staff Sergeant, MR. Thomas, was a man of many names. And for every name, he had so many people who loved him. A person as unique as they come, he had the strength of 10 men, bravery of a platoon, and love of an entire family. Sorely missed is hardly enough to say for him. In so many ways he's made his way into our lives even today. Small signs and big ones that you CAN"T ignore show us that he is still thinking of us and loving us from wherever he is. His name shall always have a special place in everyone's heart. Even though every conversation I had with him, ended with a threat of some sort towards me, it was all taken as a sign of affection with him. We will all see him again someday, and until then, Im gonna keep training so he doesn't beat my butt too bad. We love you Mr. Thomas.
Roger Dodger

My deepest condolences to the family. You will be missed by all and your efforts are truly appreciated. Semper Fidelis

We were very heartbroken and shocked to hear about the news of Michael's death. We had the pleasure of hanging out with Michael only a few times but enjoyed every minute of it. Cassie and her family (Krista, Jay, Bob, and Debbie) are our very close friends and we love them all very much. We are sorry for their loss and we send our deepest condolences. Warm wishes to you all and to Michael's wife, son, and daughter. Michael, you will be very missed.