Fallen Heroes of Operation Iraqi Freedom

"In the summer of 2005 I ate lunch with Mike the day before he shipped from FT Irwin. I new Mike in his GMC days would ride with me and the Football players to church. He once told me while the players were buying junk in the store that I was doint a good thing for them. He was going to come back and finish up at GA College and I was going to meet his new wife. He was a good man and this Veterans Day he is on my heart. I stuck it out for you Mike finished strong retired. It was your memory I took care of the wounded for 5 years at the during OEF/OIF. Miss you my brother..."
Jerry Easterwood CPT / AN GAUSAMY NG (Retired) of McDonough GA

"God Bless you all, I just wanted you to know that although Michael is gone, he will always be remembered. Even by folks like me that never knew him. I spoke with this father one day several years ago after finding some dog tags with Michael's name. He shared Michael's story with me, and how he died a hero. He told me I could keep the set of duplicate tags to remember his son. I told him I would be honored. I think about Michael and his story especially since I know have a son in the Army National Guard. I pray I never have to experience what the Stokley family has endured. It is my hope and prayer that you know Sgt.Michael Stoley and his memory continue to move people, and I am blessed that you shared his story with me."
Christy from the Little Rock Airport

"Remembering you everyday and still have a hard time 9 years later believing you are gone. It still feels like a nightmare. Love you and miss you."
Brittany of Newnan,GA

"Today is August 14, 2014, a little less than two days before the 9th anniversary of your passing. We still remember and grieve )-:"
dd of newnan, ga

"Mike, here it is, 2013, and I still think about you on a regular basis. You made such a big impact on everyone that knew you, and continued to make an impact on our lives after you were gone. Your dad is a hero for his bravery and commitment in everything he does since you left us, which makes so many people proud knowing you would of become a man just like him. We all miss you so much, and I still pray that you are looking down on us, protecting us from heaven."
KK of Jefferson, GA

"Had lunch with Ed Stokely (Uncle) of Mike yesterday. We were reminded of the sacrifices that some like Mike give for our freedom! Thank you Mike and God Bless!"
Terry/Derek of St. Augustine/FL

"Thank you for sharing your story and that of your son, Michael Stokley. Your best revenge is to look forward and live life. Those filled with hate are already dead."
David Grim - USMC of Charlotte, NC

"To the family of:Michael J. Stokely
I am so sorry for the loss of your love one. My heart cries out for you in your grief and you have my thoughts and prayers. He died a hero defending freedom. May you have the peace and understanding that only comes from God. Prayerfully we will all meet in Heaven one day where we will rest in the arms of Jesus. If you need prayer or need someone to talk to, please call or write my pastor: Rev. John Pearrell 11677 Brown Bridge Rd., Covington, GA 30016. (770)787-1015.
Your friend in Jesus Christ, Polly Ballew Covington,Ga""

"To this family I send out my deepest sympathy, how well I know the pain of the holidays when one of your children is missing. Your son faught so our sons could live in a country of freedom and I know he is still watching over those he loves today. There is bond so strong between parent and child and not even death can break it apart. I too lost a son not in the honorable way that you have, but in the end we are still much the same. We face life every day living without our child."God Bless this family" you are within my prayers."
Carol Ragsdale of Newnan, GA

"I went to high school with mike and niki. niki was my best friend so i got to spend a lot of time with him. everyone goes through phases with the passing of someone that they love. it has been almost 4 years and everytime i come back to loganville, GA i still get this ray of hope that maybe it was all just a bad dream. I was there for the parade, at the funeral, and at the burial but none of it seems real. Mike was one of those people who altered your life without even trying. His laughter, smile and attitude towards life was infectous. Mike did the split option program and went to basic the summer before his senior year. When he came back he was so proud to be apart of something so special. There are only two things that mike wanted in high school. He wanted to protect the citizens of the United States to the best of his ability and he wanted Niki. He loved her more than he loved himself. I think every woman in America yearns for that kind of love, respect, and devotion. Mike is home now and he went out doing what he did best, protecting his home and family, and loving niki. Mike I love you and there hasn't been a day, since niki told me that you were going over seas, that i haven't thought about you. I miss you and will love you always. I'll be there with you at some point but in the mean time keep an eye on those DAWGS!!!!"
Rebecca McClain Stephen of Ft Bragg, nc

"I went to high school with mike and niki. niki was my best friend so i got to spend a lot of time with. everyone goes through phases with the passing of someone that they love. it has been almost 4 years and everytime i come back to loganville, GA i still get this ray of hope that maybe it was all just a bad dream. I was there for the parade, at the funeral, and at the burial but none of it seems real. Mike was one of those people who altered your life without even trying. His laughter, smile and attitude towards life was infectous. Mike did the split option program and went to basic the summer before his senior year. When he came back he was so proud to be apart of something so special. There are only two things that might wanted in high school. He wanted to protect the citizens of the United States to the best of his ability and he wanted Niki. He loved her more than he loved himself. I think every woman in America yearns for that kind of love, respect, and devotion. Mike is home now and he went out doing what he did best. Protecting his home and family, and loving niki. Mike I love you and there hasn't been a day, since niki told me that you were going over seas, that i haven't thought about you. I miss you and will love you always. I'll be there with you at some point but in the mean time keep and eye on those DAWGS!!!!"
Rebecca McClain Stephen of Ft Bragg, nc

"michael,

i am filled with sadness when i remember your face. the horrier of your death. i want you to know michael that i pray for your family who i have never known. and i hope that no one ever has to face your end, which i know is a pipe dream. but i can remember you and hold you with the highest reguard."
lance of atlanta, ga

"To the family and friends of Mike, I only got to know Mike for a little while, but i've known his wife Niki for alot of years. Mike was a great man and paid the ultimate sacrifice for all of us. To Robert I met you a few times, while I worked for Niki at the salon. Mike was a lot like you! I know that it never will go away the pain that you feel for losing your son, but may god grant you the wish of it getting a little easier as time passes. Mike is and was a TRUE AMERICAN HERO. My Cousin Mike Malone is currently serving in IRAQ now I always keep your families in my prayers. God Bless You All.
R.I.P. MIKE. WE MISS YOU VERY MUCH"
Tiffany of Monroe, Georgia

""Prayer Shawls 4 Fallen Soldiers is an organization of over 235 knitting groups throughout the country. We have sent over 2,900 prayer shawls to the families of fallen soldiers since October of 2007. If you or a member of your family would like a hand knit prayer shawl in memory of Michael, please contact me at barbconway@comcast.net or 774 487-8618.
Sincerely, Barbara"
Barbara Conway of Cape Cod MA

"i admire every soldur who takes up armes to portect his famiely,country and brithers in arms and i am honered to just be in the same room with them at times they stand in harms way so we all can sleep well at night huurraa and god bless them all"
cliff wright of loganville,ga.

"Even though i never knew you i know you where a good man. The other messages let me know that. I pray that your family and friends will stay strong and know that your are well. Though we share the same name and serve in the same military, though different branches, it always hurts to know another has fallen in the battle of all battles."
ABH2 (AW) Stokely, Gordon, Michael, USN of U.S.S. Harry S. Truman CVN-75, Norfolk, Virginia

"July 10, 2008
To the family of Spc. Michael J. Stokely:
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

"Michael,
You will never be forgotten, not now or ever. I remember the days you were here like yesterday. Working at Catfish Hollow, joking around and just having fun. You will be missed. R.I.P."
Barbie Summers of Sharpsburg, GA

"The years that have passed since Mike gave the ultimate sacrifice have not dulled the pain of his passing. I will continue to honor his memory every day that I serve."
CPT Will Phillips of North Little Rock, AR

"Mike, there has not been many days that have passed since God called you Home that I have not thought of you. You have had a profound impact on my life in just the short time I knew you. It was a blessing having you on our truck in Iraq. During the bad times and the good, you were always smiling. You've been a great friend, and a top notch soldier. I hope you are resting peacefully until Judgement Day when I will see you again. I love you, and I miss you."
Durham of Stockbridge, GA

"IT'S BEEN TWO YEAR'S SINCE THAT DAY. I SERVED WITH STOKELY IN IRAQ AND I CAN'T FORGET THAT TROUBLE-SOME MORNING. B.CO 1/167TH MISSES YOU."
SPC. HENDRICKS of MONTGOMERY, ALA

"I found out just last week about the passing of Mike. I had the honor of working with him for awhile, doing the Demonstration & Recruiting team. Mike was an awesome, funny and caring person. I think I am still in shock by the news. To his family, & his wife ( I also just found out he was married, congratulations!), you are in my heart as well as my family's prayers. We all serve this great country, some of us just pay more than others. God bless you all."
SPC Cori Nichols- Murray of Jefferson, GA

"Its almost 2 years later and I still can't believe it. It seems like just yesterday when my mom called and asked if I knew a Michael Stokley I replied yeah why and thats when she told me he had been killed in Iraq. Mike you were an awesome dude and I am so glad I had the chance to meet you. I was in the AFJROTC program with him at Loganville High School. Man I thank you and every serviceman and women out there that fought and still fight for our freedom cause without y'all we wouldnt be living in this glorious country that everyone around the world flocks to. You guys are what make this country great and I say THANK YOU! from the bottom of my heart. My prayers are with you and your family because unfortunately you paid the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom. Once again Thank You!"
Jessica Cashon of Loganville, Ga

"To honor the Georgia soldiers who have lost their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan and their families, the professional portrait artists of the Atlanta Fine Arts League are offering to paint a portrait of the individual soldier for his family. These 16 X 20” original portraits are being offered completely free of charge in recognition of the sacrifices made by these brave soldiers and in condolence for their families’ loss. Please visit our website www.atlantafineartsleague.org or email us at AtlantaFineArtsLeague@Yahoo.com for further information. –The Atlanta Fine Arts League"
Geraldine Zaki of Lawrenceville, GA

"I can not believe A year has gone by, and still the memory of the all the great things Mike did for this Country feel my mind every day. I hope that time has helped his family and friends to begin the heeling process. Mike will never be forgotten, and will always live on in the hearts of those who loved him most. I am very thankful that I had the chance to work with Mike and was able to become friends with such a wonderful person. My thought and prayers are with the family and friends of this hero.
GOD BLESS"
Lindsey Petitt of Loganville, ga.

"To Michael's family,
It was a pleasure meeting you all at the CFA in Sharpsburg for Mike's benefit dinner. What a small world to have the chance to meet you all and get to share your story. It was great getting to read about Mike and his great service and sacrifice for our Country. Mr. Stokely...please call me sometime (I have misplaced your number in the moving process but I would still love to meet up...678-491-7525)
Thanks to Michael and all the FINE troops that give daily in service to our Country. God Bless you All!"
David Pruiksma of Newnan, GA

"Robbie: We think of you and your family often. You were in our thoughts especially during this 4th of July week. Love, Marie & Tommy Davis"
Marie Stokely Davis of Dadeville, Al

"Today the fourth of July 2006, I thought I would look up soilders that gave their life to serve our country. But the one that stuck me the most was Micheal J. Stokley. It made me start crieng to know that a great man gave his life to serve our country. Micheal if you read this from heaven thank-you for being brave, and putting your life on line. And thank-you for being my hero."
Ktisten Age:13 of Northwest Georgia, USA

"Mike, on this Fourth of July I am remembering your service to our country. I am proud of you and won't forget your dedication to freedom's cause."
Mary Schmitt of Georgia

"To Stokely's family and wife and friends,stay strong.Even though i knew Stokely for a short time,he made the worst situations seem like nothing.When Mike and I were in Yusufiyah,he always found ways to make me have a good time,and that place was an absolute dump.You are always in my heart "Stokes",and u would have loved the pictures we took.U'll always be in my heart."
Grace Sigunga of Atlanta,Georgia

""You and your Family are allways in our prayers."

(the father of a USN Airman named Mike)"
Gordon E Stokely Jr of Mason, Ohio / USA

"I did not know Michael or have the opportunity to meet him while he was alive, but I did have the opportunity to show my support along with many other Loganville residents when he came home to rest from Iraq.

I personally don't support the war but I wanted to let you know that I appreciate the sacrifice that Michael made to ensure the continuance of Freedom; not only here in the U.S. but in Iraq, also.

Michael died on my birthday and in remembrance of him and his sacrifice I am going to wear a "fallen heroes" bracelet in his honor. It is the least that I can do.

I hope that your family finds peace and remembers all of the good times and memories that you shared with him. Do not let the anger of his death harden your heart.

My condolences!!"
Christina of Loganville, GA

"Dearest Stokely Family ~ y'all are alwayws in our thoughts and prayers.. and most especially during this most difficult Christmas week. We are eternally grateful for his service to our country ~ He will NEVER be forgotten...EVER."
Kat Orr & Family of Loganville (Walnut Grove) Georgia

"Just wanted to send my condolences... from all the Stokely's in Indiana."
Melissa Stokely of Wakarusa, IN

"I Went to GMC with Mike and proudly served my country with him in Iraq. Besides being one of my best friends he was a Hero to me. I'll never forget the day I heard the news. It was all I could do to keep from breaking down. Later I found out that FOB Row in Iraq was renamed to FOB Stokley. There are some things in life that can change a man forever. When things start wearing down on me, I just think of Mike & no matter what is going on it seems a little easier because I know Mike could do it. I find myself thinking of him very often & I pray almost every night that God watches over my friend & that one day I see him again. I just want Mike's family & Niki to know that Mike was truly a Hero to all of us. I've seen the good we do in this country & I've seen the children that will grow up without fear of persecution. To serve with Mike is one of the greatest honors of my life. The first thing one my list when I get home is to pay my respect to my friend. I want everyone to know when they look at the American flag flying in a blue sky with green grass at its base, the blood, sweat, & tears it takes to put it there. All gave some, some gave ALL. I miss you Mike."
Sgt Paul M. Creech of Hazlehurst Ga

"This goes out to the Family and Friends of Mike. Him and I went to AIT together and I just found out today the 28th day of October 2005 that my friend had fallen. Mike is a hero and always will be to me and everyone else that was in the same AIT class as we were in. I truly appreciate the sacrifice that he made and that his family made as well. He always talked about the love of his life back home and I am saddend that it ended so tragicly. I've missed the conversations and the smile that was on his face wether we were doing push-ups or just hanging out. The world was a better place with him around. I will always love and respect you Mike, and until I see you again everytime that the Flag is raised and the Star Spangled Banner is played I will salute the flag, and you until I can no longer do that. I will miss you buddy."
Spc. Casey Cooper of Hill City Kansas

"We pray that God will heal your hearts and bless you in some way."
Cindy Astin and family of Bowdon, Ga

"My loving prayers are that peace may once again fill the void that is now felt. Thank you for the ultimate sacrifice...our love and prayers are with you"
Debora Walston (wife of: Spc James Walston,HHC 108th St. Michael of Pendleton, SC

"Michael,
I want to thank you for serving our country.Your family and friends are in my prayers.I'm so sorry about ya'll of your lost of your son or friend.Ya'll are in my prayers. GOD BLESS AMERICA and OUR SOLDIERS!!!
Kendra Johnson
61 E.Wedgewood Cir.
Newnan,Ga 30263"
Kendra Johnson of Newnan,GA 30263

"What can I say...Mike's departure to Iraq was my first front-page story when I started working at the Times-Herald, and I was so proud of it. I couldn't wait to meet this special person that I'd heard so much about that I felt like I knew him. I was devastated the day Robert called with the news I'd prayed I wouldn't have to hear, but I was honored to get the opportunity to continue writing about this true American hero. I wish I would have gotten to shake his hand, and I will one day, just a little later than I expected..."
Elizabeth Richardson of Newnan, GA

"Michael, even though I never knew you personnaly I "SALUTE" you soldier. As a prior United States Marine myself, I know the sacrafices you made for our country. I heard a saying once, "No greater love that no man had than to lay down his life for a friend". You gave your life for people you never knew. That my friend makes you a hero and a friend in any book. I salute you soldier, you will never be forgotten."
Sgt. Thomas R. Spence USMC of Monroe, GA

"To mikes family...Im truely sorry for your loss. MIke will be missed so much. MY heart hurts for you and mike was a hero he was fighting for our country. Nikki stay strong. God bless you."
Jessica Thompson of loganville ga

"Thank you all so much for honoring Mike Stokely with your time and kind comments. Mike was a truly great son, brother, husband, and friend. We will miss him dearly.

Again, thank you for honoring Mike with your time and your kindness"
Robert Stokely, Dad of Sharpsburg GA

"Niki,
I want to know that my prayers are with you. You have made the ultimate sacrifice through your husband, Mike. I am the Raines' mom. Both of my daughters, Michele & Melissa, my son-in-law, Hunter and my two grandsons, Grant, 3 and Bryce, 4 months, were standing along Hwy 78 as you passed by. I wish that I could have been there. I worked with Mike at FBCL in the youth department. I will continue to pray for you and your family daily. Let the strength of Our Heavenly Father carry you through this time. Know that you have friends who are there for you. Lean on them. Thank you again for your sacrifice. Mike will never be forgotten."
Kathy Raines Broadhead of Jesup GA

"Guest Book for
Spc. Michael J. Stokely


Page 1 of 5


August 25, 2005
To Mike's family, loved ones, and Niki~
My prayers and thoughts are with you. Mike was a beautiful person inside and out. He was never a stranger to anyone and was always smiling with an uplifting attitude. I had the great pleasure of knowing Mike and being good friends with him since the 6th grade.I truly got to know Mike through cheering with him, and how great of a person he was.It was kind of frightening when Mike first started cheering with his uncoordinated moves, but he became a great cheerleader. Not only was he a great cheerleader, but a great leader of this country, and most of all, a great and loving friend to everyone. I wish everyone could of known Mike, but by the postings and the coverage of our hero, you know how awesome Mike is, and will continue to be. I am so proud of you Mike and I love you!
Jessica Cole (Loganville, GA )
jrcole6403@ngcsu.edu

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August 25, 2005
though i did not know mike. and u dont know me. i can tell you i am praying for yall. im friends with adam and corey and well that family. my heart goes out to yall, but as we both know God is with you. but i want to personally tell you God will get yall through this. once again im prayin for yall.
David Falldine (warner robins, GA )

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August 25, 2005
Dear Melissa,

There are no words that I could ever say to make you feel better. All I can say is that I am so sorry for your loss and that I have been praying for you and your family and will continue to do so. We serve a GREAT BIG GOD and HE is the ONLY ONE that can comfort your heart. He's done it for me in the past and I know He will come through for you. He has said that He will never leave us, nor forsake us. Call on Him--He's always been faithful to me. I love you, girl!
Teresa Thomas (Warner Robins, GA )
scrapitnow@earthlink.net

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August 25, 2005
Michael,
Today as I watched the cars, your wife was holding your picture out the window. I want to thank you for your sacrifice. You would truly be proud. People were standing shoulder to shoulder and everyone was teary eyed. When the hearse went by I saw the coffin, with the american flag on top. I thank you, and I'm praying for you. Every sign in loganville has your name on it. We love you. Like my mother said, God only picks the prettiest flowers...
Morgan McHugh (Loganville, GA )
morganmchu@bellsouth.net

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August 26, 2005

Thank you, Michael, for loving and serving our country willingly.I am so proud of you.
I will never forget your big smile and sweet spirit. You will be missed terribly by the people whose lives you enriched.

Love,
Mrs. Jones
7th grade English teacher
ellenpaige@charter.net"
Ellen Jones of Athens, Georgia

"What an honor it was to stand along the highway while a true American hero passed by. I told my son to never forget the difference between this...a true hero...and the many false heroes our society puts forward. Your sacrifice is beyond anything that I can imagine but please remember that most Americans are completely aware that these sacrifices do ensure our safety and freedom."
Robbi Converse of Grayson, GA USA

"I am so sorry for the lost of your husband and son. My son Spc Hooks is also in thr 108th E Troop from Griffin and he spoke highly about Michael and how kind he was to everyone. You all are in our prayers"
Teresa Hooks of Forsyth Ga USA

"We are deeply sorry for your loss. The Courage, Honor, and Valor that your
Hero showed will always be remembered.
We are grateful for the loyal service and sacrifice that was made and
WE WILL NEVER FORGET.
Our cousin LCPL Michael Smith Jr. gave his life on 4-17-04 fighting for freedom.
Please know that this was not in vain and these American Heros will FOREVER be honored.
God Bless your family and please know that you are not alone.
All of our prayers are with you."
Jennifer and SSGT Larry Mays of Massillon, Ohio

"TO THE STOKLEY FAMILY FROM THE WAHL FAMILY. OUR FAMILY DEEPLY SORRY FOR YOUR LOST. WE ENDURED LOSING OUR SON LAST YEAR. AN OUR HEART AND PRAYS ARE WITH mICHAEL AND YOUR FAMILY. MICHAEL HAS TOUCHED THE HEARTS OF SO MANY. AN THOSE HEARTS HE HAS TOUCHED. HOLD VERY FOND MEMORIES SHARED WITH MICHAEL. MICHAEL HAS NOT DIED IN VAIN. MICHAEL WAS A SOLDIER, HIS CALLING IN LIFE! AN HE HAS MADE AMERICA SAFER ALOT SAFER SINCE 911! I HAVE NO VIEWPOINT OF THE CONFLICT; OTHER THEN TO ALWAYS SUPPORT OUR TROOPS. (SOLDIER'S) IN MY HEART MICHAEL, ALL OUR OTHER FALLEN SOLDIER'S AND THOSE SERVING DESERVE THAT FROM US! MICHAEL I THANK YOU, FOR SERVING ALONGSIDE OUR SON. I REALIZE NEITHER OF YOU KNEW ONE ANOTHER PERSONALLY. STILL YOU ARE A BAND OF BROTHER'S ON A MISSION FOR ALL OF AMERICA. GOD BLESS!"
LEONARD WAHL of VALLEY STREAM NY

"My condolences to the Family of Michael
Stokely. May God Bless you and help you through this time. I am a friend of
Michael's cousins, Becky, Barbara, Susan, and have been praying for them
every day to help them through this
difficult time. Michael's cousins are
like my own daughters, and I love them
very much, and I know they loved Michael. May you all take comfort in
knowing you are loved and in eveyone's
prayers. God Bless You."
ann yount of dayton,ohio

"No one can understand your loss, words are not enough, time will heal in the long term, but you never forget, there will always be reminders, my heart goes out too you, but there is nothing to do, god bless you all."
n. mather of UK

"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.
Our nations HERO, Michael will be remembered by name.
Our thoughts and prayers are with you.
God Bless you ALWAYS.
Pat & Sandi Breckenridge from Montana "

"To the family and friends of Michael Stokely, it saddens us to hear of your loss. We lost our Marine in Nov. '04 and we feel your pain and ultimate sacrifice. We take comfort in the memories of our loved one and family and hope you will find peace in your hearts. Love to you and yours always."
K. Ledesma of Folsom, CA

"ARMY SPC MICHAEL J. STOKELY
You are an American Hero whose ultimate sacrifice will not be forgotten by a grateful nation. Rest in peace brave soldier. My deepest condolences to the family and friends of Michael and may memories comfort you during this most difficult time and always. We are so very sorry for your loss."
Brad & Dorothy Burt of Rhode Island

"Thank you Michael Stokely, 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

"To the family and friends of Spc. Michael Stokely:
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 Spc. Michael Stokely:
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