Michael grew up in South Florida and aspired to military service from an early age. He joined the Young Marines at just nine years old. For his sophomore year of high school, he moved to Delafield, Wisconsin, to attend St. John’s Northwestern Military Academy. A three-sport athlete, he excelled in baseball, football, and hockey. He also enjoyed spending time with friends, meeting new people, bull riding, mudding with trucks, and playing billiards.

After graduating in 2008, Michael enlisted in the U.S. Army. Following basic training, he was assigned to Company A, 2nd Battalion, 504th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, North Carolina. In March 2012, his unit deployed to Ghazni Province, Afghanistan. On April 22, while responding as part of a quick reaction force, he was killed when his truck struck an improvised explosive device.

His legacy endures through his family, friends, and fellow soldiers.