Michael John MacKinnon

Captain Michael John MacKinnon, a native of Helena, graduated from West Point in 1997 and was commissioned a second lieutenant in the US Army. He completed Ranger, Airborne, and Air Assault schools, and the Army recognized his natural leadership abilities as he rose rapidly through the ranks to captain and was slated for promotion to major upon returning from deployment. At the time of 911, he was part of the Third Infantry Division stationed at Fort Stewart, Georgia. He served with distinction in Operation Iraqi Freedom and the invasion of Iraq in March 2003. During his second tour of duty in Iraq, on October 27, 2005, an Improvised Explosive Device exploded next to his Humvee while he led a convoy mission near Baghdad. At the time of his death, he commanded Company A of the 184th Infantry, a California National Guard unit. He was buried with full military honors at the post cemetery at West Point. He was survived by his wife, Beth, and two children, Madison and Noah.

Montana · United States