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Technical
Sergeant Michael P. Flores, 31, was Killed In Action on Wednesday, 09
June 2010, when insurgents shot down his helicopter. On that date,
two
HH-60G Pave Hawk helicopters “Pedro 66” and “Pedro 67” flew into Helmand
Province to rescue a critically injured British Marine near Forward Operating
Base Jackson in the Sangin District, in southern Afghanistan. Upon arriving at
the scene, both helicopters came under intense enemy fire.
While Pedro 67 landed
to recover the wounded Royal Marine, Pedro 66 remained in the air and provided
fire support. Pedro 66 was hit by rocket propelled grenades which critically
damaged the helicopters tail rotor. Due to the damage that the aircraft had
received, it went into an uncontrollable spin and crashed away from the initial
landing zone. Of the seven on board
Pedro 66, Capt Joel Gentz (CRO), TSgt Michael Flores (PJ) , SrA Ben White (PJ),
Capt David Wisniewski (Pilot) and SSgt David Smith (Flight Engineer) were
killed.
Pedro 67 immediately
flew to the crash site and deployed a 3-man PJ team. The PJs medically treated survivors, and
recovered the remains of deceased personnel. Royal Marines of the 40 Commando's
Charlie Company also rushed to rescue the survivors and secure the scene.
Sergeant Flores was born October 21, 1978 in Austin, Texas
to Dr. and Mrs. Leopoldo R. Flores. He graduated from John Marshall High School
San Antonio, Texas in 1997. After graduation he enlisted in the United States
Air Force. Upon completion of Basic Military Training at Lackland Air Force
Base, San Antonio, Texas he volunteered for Pararescue. He excelled during the
two year training program and earned the coveted maroon beret worn by PJs.
During his distinguished military career he was awarded the
Distinguished Flying Cross for heroism, the Purple Heart, and 12 Air Medals.
Michael was a Pararescueman whose skills knew no boundaries, whose warm
personality knew no strangers, and whose service to his country will be long
remembered. Yet another reminder, Freedom is not free.
He is survived by his wife of 5 years Technical Sergeant Marisa L. Flores,
Daughter Eliana, Son Michael, Father Leopoldo, Mother Emilia, Sister Anna, and
Brother David.
Sergeant Flores was interred on 19 June 2010, with full military honors, at Fort
Sam Houston National Cemetery, San Antonio, Texas
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