Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"I met Mike at Ft. Campbell, around the Summer/Fall of 2003. I had just come back from my second deployment and he regretfully was getting ready to go over.
I met him during our morning PT sessions, and mannnn was he fit... I could not keep up with him. To note, my PT score was somewhere in the top ten of the whole division (~30,000 soldiers). That is how fit and how much of a hard worker he was. Someone to look up to!
Typically I could not find someone who could keep up with me in runs or during PT, and therefore PT would get kind of boring over the years at that unit, but Mike came along and would just leave me in the dust!
What is crazy is he could do this while also riding his bike to and from work everyday. He would also go home for lunch as well.... So sometimes he would bike 6 times a day. It is not like he lived around the corner either. I don't remember but I would say he lived at least 5 miles away. So in between all that he would still embarrass me in PT ;) He also wouldn't complain about being tired or sore etc. Amazing man. Hard to beat. A great leader.
I remember he told me he met his wife while biking :). I am not sure if this is true, but he told me she hit him with a car while on his bike and they got married after that. Great story!
It was terrible to hear what happened in Iraq. He had just gotten there... Though I was not there, without a doubt, I know he was acting with courage and bravery under the circumstances. I attended his ceremony and carried our units flag during it. Though I only knew him briefly, I still remember and look up to him to this day more than 19 years later."
Bryan Ahlstrand of Silverspring, MD

"To the family of Mike,
My first duty station was Ft. Wainwright, AK. I met Mike there, he was an incredible NCO. When I was told of his passing, I cried and couldn't believe it. Personally, I always thought Mike could out run any bullet, boy did this guy love running. He was the kindest person I ever met."
Arriz Lucas of Phoenix, AZ

"Sgt. Hancock,
I would just like to say thank you for your service and sacrifice for our Country. And to your Family and loved ones, I wish to extend my deepest sympathy.

Volens Et Potens(Willing And Able)
320th FA Motto"

"Amber my email is andyski9@gmail.com"
Ski of Fairbanks ak

"Amber Your dad and I were real good bros and always together in Alaska I have some pics that you may want to see.."
Ski of Fairbanks Ak

"I had the honor to serve alongside with SGT Hancock in Alaska. The man was awesome. A great soldier. A greater friend. When I heard of his death, I too was in Iraq but with 3ID. When I met the 1SG who was our 1SG in Fort wainwright. ..he told of the news. I broke down and cried.. such a sad moment and I knew of the family as well. RIP brother."
SGT Jimmy Le of New Orleans

"I want to thank all who have posted on this site. Your thoughts and prayers are appreciated. I was not aware there was a memorial online, but having seen it, I am grateful. Mike was a good older brother. He will always be in my heart."
Paul Hancock of Paso Robles, CA USA

"Wow... I have wanted to know more about my dad so I googled his name and found this page. This is amazing. I am so happy that my dad was a hero and that he was so kind. I don't know much about him, but would love to hear your stories. If you knew my mom or dad please shoot me an email and share your stories. ashleydecker96@yahoo.com"
Ashley Hancock of Clarksville, Tennessee

"My ex husband and I new Sgt. Hancock very well. He even lived with us a brief time in Alaska. He was such a nice man, with a good heart. He loved his wife and l kids very much. They were his world. I just wanted his family to know that we have never forgotten him and we are deeply sorry for your loss."
francie garcia of martinsburg, WV

"Mike never does a day go by that your not missed. You were a true good friend even when top got on ya bout hagin with a spc. Love ya man"
Ski of Ft wainwright Ak

"My husband served with him. He was a good man"
m vandeyacht of fayetteville, nc

"I miss you Mike !!! 10 years later ... you are in our hearts :)"
Allan of New York

"Amber Sanders, everything it's fine. Ashley and Chris are back in Hawaii being homeschooled. They are thrilled at the new way of doing school. I remember your sisters kids. It has been so long. My number is 8082052924, giver me a call sometime."
James Hancock of gray lakes, Illinois

"Amber, if you ever get back on here, please find me on Facebook. :) https://www.facebook.com/#!/MeaninglessMemories

(Jeannie's oldest daughter)"
Amber of Hannibal, MO

"James,
I am so happy to see you posted on this. Very proud of you for joining the Navy! My name is Amber Sanders. My sister Joy and your mom were friends for about 10 years. I'm sure you remember Xavier, Junior, and Jasmine, her kids. I hope you are doing well. How are Ashley and Christopher?"
Amber Sanders of Clarksville, TN

"I am the son of Sgt. Michael S. Hancock. If you want contact with Ashley and Chris, I am the person to get that information from. I am now a member of the United States Navy somewhat following in my dad's footsteps."
James Hancock of Great Lakes, Illinois

"Michael you will not be forgotten."
Jesse of Saint Helens, Or.

"I knew Michael! I considered him as a friend. We served together at Ft. Campbell, between 1999 and 2000. We used to talk together while eating at the Chow hall, about driving a car, because neither of us had a driving license at the time. He would ride his Bicycle everyday, 14 miles to the base, and 14 back. He introduced me to his family one time at the Company Christmas function. Michael and I spent many "field problems" together, and we always enjoyed each others company. We were in the "Bandit" Battery, and I remember how he would "carry" our company Guidon, because he was such a fast runner! Michael would run the 2-mile APFT in ten to eleven minutes, far faster than anybody, and I beleive he spoke of running "half marathons". I learned of his death in 2003 from the Army Times, and was quite tramatized from that. I missed him immediately and felt much sorrow. I thought about the Happy time, that I met him, upon our first PCS's to Alaska. I was at Ft. Richardson, he at Ft. Wainwright. I met him the winter of 2002, he was still "riding" his bicycle, with specialized " Ice tires" even in the Arctic conditions, of 20 below zero! he told me that he was living with a friend, and that his family did not want to move to the remote location in Alaska! I felt sad for him and his wife and children. That was the last time I had contact with Michael. I believe that he returned to Ft. Campbell to be with his family, and instead of going back to 3d battalion, I guess he was assigned to 1st. Even now, ten years later, I still have not forgotten "Michael Hanckock", an the time we spent together, and of course his story of his trademark "cauliflower" ear, from wrestling, which is how I unfortunately knew "immediately" from the photo of his death, that it was my friend! Michael still is within my heart, and his warm hearted spirit, telling me about his home in California, while he used my barracks room to change from his sweaty PT's to his BDU duty uniform, will always be in my memory , as long as I live! I miss you Michael, and RIP!"
derik harmon of Nashville, Tennessee

"Bob,
I got your email. Yes. I am the step-daughter of Michael, and I will make sure that my brother and sister get the flag, as they were Michael's biological children."
Amber Ash-Cook of Clarksville, TN

"I am trying to locate the family of Michael S. Hancock. I was on the Air Crew who flew Michael out of Iraq on 24 Oct 2003. I drove through Yreka yesterday (Memorial Day) and could not locate any family members in the telephone book."
Bob of N. Calif,

"Amber i doubt you remember me but i met your mom & the rest of you when i worked @ g's. I know what happened to her was horrific & i pray that you and the rest of your siblings are ok after all these years since it happened. I think of your mom often, she was a wonderful person as well as a wonderful mom to all of you. I'll never forget the nights we went out to have a good time. When i met her i was going through some hard times & she helped me through them. I went by her & your step dads grave last week & said a prayer for them. Its still hard to understand why such a beautiful woman was taken from us. But god made her an angel for all of us. If you get this please let me know how your doing my e-mail is tnredneck6279@yahoo.com. God bless all of you"
Mary Ann Bensley of Clarksville TN

"I served with Hancock in Bravo Battery, 3/320th FA over 10 years ago. My heart goes out to his family and I hope they know he has not been forgotten"
Alan of Kabul Afghanistan

"Missy,
Thank you so much for your kind words and encouragement. I'm so sorry for your loss and your children's loss. I know it broke my heart to lose my stepdad, because I looked to him as my real dad. I'm grounded at the moment and have to get online at school. So I can't check my email. But I will as soon as I can. :) Thank you so much. God bless you and your family."
Amber Ash-Cook of Hannibal, MO

"Amber,
You and your family have not been forgotten. I did not know you mom or dad but am a widow of a soldier killed in Iraq. I use to keep up with the list of KIA's and read about your dad. Then I believe another widow told me about your mom so I read up on that as well. My heart broke for you and your siblings. I wondered how much can these children go through? I have two children myself and I watched them at the loss of their dad and I seen how deeply it hurt them. I can not imagine how you did that twice. I know that I will never forget you and your family.I am going to send a message to the email you have posted on here with all my info. Please if there is ever anything that you need just let me know. I will do my best to help you in anyway. I know when I first heard about your mom I just wanted to help and I know there was alot of other widows that felt the same way. Sweetheart you are not alone."
Missy Givens of Colorado. USA

"SSG Josh Forbess,
I do not have a copy. I wish I did. I have a copy of the slideshow from my mom's funeral, and that's it. I didn't get very many of my things seeing as how I had to move not even a month after she was killed. I'm trying to find a copy of both Mom's and Dad's. I live in Missouri now away from my other siblings. But everything is going well. Thank you for writing back. It means a lot. God bless you. :) And thanks for all you do.
P.S. I'm not sure if this is you or not, but I remember my mom mentioning to us before a VA dinner or something about a soldier who was burned by a helicopter crash...Is that you? I'm not sure if it is, so if not I'm sorry..
Oh yeah. It may be easier to reach me through my email because I hardly check back on here because hardliy anybody replies. ambershmamberz@yahoo.com"
Amber M. Ash-Cook of Hannibal, MO USA

""To the family of Michael S. Hancock ,I am so sorry for the loss of your love one.He died a hero.May you know the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Hopefully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need someone to pray with you or talk to please call or write my pastor at Gateway Community Church,Rev John B Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd. Covington Ga. 30016 phone 770-787-1015""

"Amber,
I am trying to find a copy of the memorial service we did for Michael in Iraq. Just curious as to if you may have a copy. I tried to get one from your mom, before she passed. I do not know if you remember me or not, as we have only met, very briefly, maybe on two occasions. Michael was one of my Soldiers, I was there the night he was shot, and I spoke at his memorial service. Our battery lost another five Soldiers around three weeks later, and I was the only one to survive. Our whole section was lost. I have severe burns to my face and head, so maybe that might help to remember me. Anyway, I do think about Michael and your Mom often, as I do about you and your siblings. I hope all is going well, and may God bless."
SSG Josh Forbess

"I never want to forget the sacrifices of so many young men and women. I am so proud it makes me cry. I understand in theory only that war is a part of human nature but so is love and caring. I wish I could take the families pain away but I can't. I am committed to loving ALL people, myself and our environment. I am committed to working on my happiness everyday because so many have died for my freedom to live my life. Thank you is not enough but it is all I have. All my love and respect. ogersteiner@yahoo.com

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dEjz-wAQLSA&feature=PlayList&p=477CB1585D5551F3"
Scott Steiner of Worthington, OH USA

"Today's Veteran's Day. And it's been 6 years since Michael's death. I don't think anyone gets on here anymore. But I want to thank those of you who do. I love him and miss him.
Love,
Amber"
Amber Ash-Cook of Hannibal, MO

"Thank you guys. I never knew this site was made. So I thank you. I am Amber, one of Michael's stepchildren and Jeannie's oldest. I am almost 16 now and I was only 11 when Michael was killed. And only 13 when my mom was killed. So I thank you guys for everything you guys did for me and my family. God bless you guys."
Amber Ash-Cook of Hannibal, MO

"Well, it has been 5 years since the horrific night at the grain facility. It is hard to believe that I only knew you for 19 days. It seems as if you were there with us the whole time. Little did you know it then I am sure, but you saved Hamilla's life. I know he struggles with that, as well as, I do with my guilt. The image of walking up and seeing you there has been etched into my mind. The pictures you were waiting on came shortly after. That had to be the worst piece of mail that I had ever had to handle. I just wanted to let you know how much that I love you guys. My love to you and your family "Comanche Pride""
SSG Josh Forbess of Fort Campbell, KY

"September 30, 2008
To the family of Sgt. Michael S. Hancock:
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"
Peggy Childers of Carson City, NV

"my friend Michael Hancock died in a car accident a few days ago. he was 17 and wanted to join the army. looking at this page reminds me of him and i feel so sorry for your loss because i know it hurts."
nicole of italy

"Just as many of the other Michael Hancock's I also found this site by Googling my name. I would also like to send my deepest sympathy, thoughts, and prayers to your family. I had two uncles die in WWII. One airborne on D-Day in France and the other in the Philippines. Your son gave the most anyone can for his country and we are all thankful. Take care and God bless."
Michael J. Hancock of Michigan, USA

"Yes Jeannie died at G's on Dec. 19 2006. The children are heart broken. Jeannie was a very good friend of mine and i was there when she was shot. Anyone and Everyone needs to donate to the Bank of America for a fund for the kids. PLEASE GUYS! These kids need you. They have no mom or dad for Christmas."
Amber Sanders of Clarksville,TN

"Micheals widow was murdered tues dec.19,2006,ther 4 children without a mom or dad.My heart breaks for them."
Julia Frampton of clarksville,TN.

"I SERVED WITH SGT. HANCOCK IN ALASKA. HE WAS TRULY KNOWN AS CPT. AMERICA. YOU ARE GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN...."
JESUS GUERRERO of MIAMI, FL

"I was able to serve with sgt.Hancock in alaska. He is the reason im staying in the military. After I heard, I volunteered to go asap with the cav. to Iraq. He is a real life hero, the kind people read about in books. Im priviledged to have served with him."
spc.Boyle of Florida

"My name is Matt Hancock and I stumbled upon this website searching for my brothers name, who is also Michael Hancock. He served in the Marine Corp and fought for his country along with many other soldiers like your son. Although I don't know your family, I send my deepest sympathy, thoughts, and prayers with your family. With great reward comes an even larger sacrifice. May the memory of your son live on forever. God Bless him and the thousands of other men and women who are serving or have served in the armed forces protecting our country."
Matt Hancock of Wilmington, NC/USA

"I served with SGT HANCOCK for 3 yrs in Alaska. He was a professional soldier and was always willing to help those around him. I dont have the words to say on how sorry I am for his family."
SSG Hunter J. Berg of Ft. Sill, OK,

"We remember our neighbor Mike as about the nicest young man we ever knew. As a 17 year old, his idea of fun was an all-out 25 mile bike ride in the hot sun...returning with his ready smile and a wave. We felt so lucky to have such a great kid as our friend. Everyone in Yreka held Mike in the highest regard and remembers him as one of the best."
The May family of Yreka, CA

"I too am a Michael Hancock from New Zealand... I feel sadness to any fallen hero and hope the Hancock family keep great memories of this Michael... may the fighting stop.
Michael J hancock Taihape New Zealand"
Mike of N.Z

"My name is Michael A. Hancock, I live in Oregon. I have family in Yreka. Strangely I feel a bit connected with Michael S. Hancock. I stumbled upon his website just surfing for my name. Did not expect to find this. I too am sorry for the loss of a loved man, friend, son, husband, and more I am sure. People like Michael continue to allow us and Americans to live in a country far better than those we fight.
Sincerely,
Michael A. Hancock"
Michael A. Hancock of Albany, OR, U.S.A.

"I have around my wrist the name of SSgt. Michael S. Hancock on a "FALLEN HEROS" bracelet, and I count it an honor too bear it in his rememberance. From the memorial it sounds like he would have been a TRUE HERO A Man Who Beleived In GOD, Family, And Country. May GOD Richly Bless SSgt. Hancocks Sacrifice. "GREATER LOVE HATH NO MAN THAN THIS"
THANK YOU SSgt. Hancock.
Our Hearts And Prayers May Ever Remember You And Those You Left Waiting To See You In Heaven Some Day.

Daniel R Woosley
midnightrider42025@yahoo.com"
Daniel R Woosley of Benton, Kentucky USA

"Mike, thanks for all that you did for us and the rest of America. You were a ture inspiration. You are a true hero. We love you and will miss having you around.
your cousins~"
Kristi and Jennifer of Yreka, CA/U.S.

"You were one of the "good guys". You are missed."
Leslie Fletcher Ayres of Fort Wainwirght, AK

"I am going to miss you Sgt Hancock. You were the best NCO that a young PVt fresh to the Army could ever have in Alaska. You tought me what it is like to be in the Army and enjoy it so far from home. Dont worry man I got the Dew and I am keeping the run up for ."
Patrick of FT Benning Ga

"Thank you brave soldier for sacrificing your today for my children's safer tomorrow. You have our utmost respect and gratitude. May God grant your family comfort and peace in their time of sorrow. May you rest in heavenly peace."
a grateful citizen in arizona

"SGT Hancock will never be forgotten...and shall we never forget his sacrifices to the American and Iraqi people. SGT Hancock, "Top Guns, Strike, Air Assault!""
SFC James Swearingen of 1-320th FAR Fort Campbell, KY

"My condolences to you and your family. I met Michael while I was in the Army in boot camp in Ft. Sill, OK back in 1993. I remember Michael being a quiet guy with a willing to learn everything that he could. I remember how he used to love running, running and running. He did what he was told, without saying a word back or complaining. He enjoyed what he was doing then, I can imagine that he loved what he was doing in Iraq, being a Soldier, an American, a HERO. Michael, Thank you Soldier, friend, HERO. I'm not saying goodbye to you Mike, I will see you again one day in Heaven. Mrs. Hancock, may God be with you and your children, and may He confort you and give you strength."
Jose Barrera of Camp Lejuene, NC. USA

"Sergeant Hancock, goodbye soldier and thank you. You are my hero."
Bill of Houston, Texas

"YOUNG PATRIOT"
by Roger W Hancock

A man we did not know,
Whose life had not yet begun.
Young, too young to experience,
The freedom for us he fought.
Our family member in liberty,
Young man’s loss we grieve.
Tears of pride and loss we shed,
In death this man still leads.
Procession of flag draped casket,
His family’s grief we join.
Sacrifice so great, he gave,
For those he knew, not known.
A son, a brother, soon a father;
Patriot youth, now home to rest.
Servicemen’s camaraderie,
Fallen hero our pride to carry.
Attention stand, tears down face,
For this man we did not know.

© Copyright February 21, 2004 www.PoetPatriot.com"
Roger W Hancock of Auburn, Washington - U.S.A.

"My prays go to the famiely and friends that know Michael.I lost a great friend over there and i miss him so much all of are troops will be greatly missed but we will never forget you and what you done for us.we love you and miss you all....for Michael Hancock and John E Brown your memorey will never die.May god bless the famielys of these two hearos that will be miss very much......"
of Troy Alabama

"Hi, I was in Jackson Mississippi with my dad the night i heard on the news that a John E Brown had died.My prays go out to his famiely.I work with John at Taco Bell in Troy Alabama.Not only was he a great worker but also a good friend that i miss very much.I know his dad and a few other members of his famiely.My prays are with you all.and with the other famielys that as lost love ones there.May God Bless us all.and take care of our troops.From a good friend of johns YOu will Be greatly miss but never forgotton"
Lynn A Spivey of Troy Alabama

"We Will NEVER FORGET !"
Please KNOW so many people share your sadness, and we are remembering your family in your loss and your deep grief. Your HERO, Michael, will be remembered by name. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. God Bless you. Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"Thank you Michael Hancock, you will not be forgotten. Your bravery goes beyond words. I want to express my deepest gratitude for your sacrifice. To the family and friends, my prayers and deep condolences in your loss. May God strengthen you from knowing that fellow Americans and people around the world care about you and grieve with you in your loss. God bless you all. A very appreciative fellow American,"
Leo Titus of Grayslake, Illinios

"Please accept my condolences on your loss. Words are not enough."
Douglas Hancock of Mississauga, Ontario, Canada

"I am the wife of Sgt. Michael S. Hancock. I just wanted to say thank you on behalf of our family and friends. These messages and prayers are what help us keep going. God Bless each and every one of you. taz1marie@msn.com"
Jeannie M. Hancock of Clarksville, TN

"To the family and friends of Sgt. Michael Hancock:
May God's grace be with you during your time of grief. Please know that our thoughts and prayers are with you and we feel your loss and share in your sorrow. Bless Michael for the sacrifice he has made to make a better life for the rest of us."
The Ford Family of Wells, Nevada

"To the family and friends of Sgt. Michael Hancock:
I am saddened by the loss of your loved one. He will always be remembered as a hero for fighting for freedom. I hope that this website will be a source of comfort and encouragement for you during this difficult time, and in the future as you recall the memories of Michael, who continues to live on in your heart."
Tim Rivera of Powder Springs, Georgia