SPRING VALLEY, WI, US
U.S. Marine Corps
CPL, 3D BN 2D MAR, (RCT-8, II MEF FWD), 2D MAR DIV, CAMP LEJEUNE, NC
06/27/2011, HELMAND PROVINCE, AFGHANISTAN
Corporal Michael Nolen of Spring Valley, Wisconsin died Monday, June 27, 2011 from wounds suffered when enemy forces attacked his unit with an improvised explosive device during a combat operation in Afghanistan. He was assigned to the 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marine Regiment, 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. He was twenty-two years old.
Michael Nolen graduated from Spring Valley High School in 2007. Mike loved the Marine Corps and was proud to serve his country. He was a strong, brave man with a tender heart, and he always carried himself with pride and integrity. With a wry sense of humor, he brightened everyone’s life with his presence. Mike was always willing to stop what he was doing to help anyone in need, and he would do whatever it took to get the job done.
Mike was awarded the Purple Heart. His final resting place is at Fort Snelling National Cemetery. Mike had been in the Marines for three and a half years and had another one and half years of service remaining. He is remembered for his silly half-smile, a crazy hat, his hair, and his eyes. He meant the world to his brother Alec, a freshman as fall 2011 school year began.
The Wisconsin Governor noted: “Wisconsin is extraordinarily grateful for the service and sacrifice of Corporal Michael Nolen. Corporal Nolen’s death is a reminder of the men and women who put their lives on the line for us, who won’t be with their friends and family. We are honored by the service of those in uniform, particularly those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. “
His father notes: “He was where he wanted to be. You always hope for the best. We are very proud of him”