John Michael Teal

Fallen Hero’s Hometown and State: Addison, Texas

Branch of Service: U.S. Air Force

Rank: Staff Sergeant

Air Force Staff Sergeant John Michael Teal was assigned to the 41st Rescue Squadron, Moody Air Force Base, Georgia. He was deployed to Afghanistan and served as a flight engineer of a Pave Hawk HH-60. Teal was killed when his aircraft crashed while performing a rescue mission that was picking up two injured Afghan children.

“Mike was a fellow ‘Rebel’ that I met and trained with while at Ole Miss,” recalled friend, Rick Peacor. “Mike was a servant-leader and always thought of others before himself. He was a team-player and had a heart for serving his country.”

Loved by many for his Southern charm, Mike is always remembered for having a huge heart.

Age: 29

Date of Death: March 23, 2003