U.S Army SPC. Miguel Angel Baez III, 32, was killed on February 5th, 2008 in Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered in Al Muqdadiyah when he encountered an improvised explosive device during combat operations. He was 1 out of 3 men that were killed that day while clearing out an enemy building.

He was always a team leader even though it wasn't his job. On this day, Miguel took that position to prove to himself and to others that he can handle being a leader and guide his men into combat. It was a typical day for them doing what they've done so many times before. They were clearing buildings checking everywhere searching for enemy explosives. They were pretty good at always finding them even if they were hidden away. This particular time, it was hidden underneath them without any signs or notice.

While they were inside, other soldiers surrounded the building outside waiting for the go ahead that the building was cleared pulling post. All of a sudden and without any warning, the IED went off and it got quiet. Not knowing what happened, everyone outside took cover and inside was very silent. Once they entered the building, they noticed that Miguel was down along with 2 other soldiers (while others were wounded).

While the medic was performing life support, Miguel was already gone. He fought a tough war with the best team anyone could have been with. Those Charlie Rock Stars of 2nd Brigade, 1/325 AIR Charlie Company. They are the best of the best.

Miguel was always a soldier in his heart. He enjoyed what he did and valued his reasons for joining- so that his nieces and nephews wouldn't have to fight. With four generations of the military in his family, he was really excited to have finally gotten the chance to fight and make something out of his life.

He was always the one to make everyone laugh by pulling pranks and keeping everyone uplifted. He would get in trouble by his superiors and have to do pushups but afterwards they would sit and laugh about it.

He was a loving and wonderful dad/husband who cared about his family so much he would talk about them to everyone. He will not be forgotten. He is loved by many. May his spirit live on through everyone's heart he has touched.

Submitted by Elena Baez, Proud Wife of U.S Army SPC. Miguel Angel Baez III