Mike Alexander

Mike Alexander's Story

A Life of Courage, Service, and Sacrifice

Mike Alexander proudly served his country during the Vietnam War with Company B, 1st Battalion, 7th Cavalry from January 1968 through October 1969. Like so many who answered the call, his service took him into some of the most dangerous combat zones of the war.

Among the most difficult battles Mike faced were those in the infamous A Shau Valley, an area known for intense fighting and relentless enemy activity. It was there that he was wounded twice while serving as an infantryman. Despite his injuries, Mike remained with his unit, continuing to serve alongside the men he considered brothers.

Looking for a new challenge, Mike volunteered to become a helicopter door gunner, serving with the 228th Aviation Battalion and later the 229th Assault Helicopter Battalion. What he thought would simply be a different assignment quickly proved even more dangerous, as he found himself under constant enemy fire. During this time, Mike was wounded once again.

His injuries required evacuation to the 106th General Hospital in Japan, followed by additional treatment and rehabilitation at Walter Reed Army Medical Center in the United States.

For many veterans, that might have marked the end of military service. For Mike, it was only the beginning.

After recovering, Mike was assigned to Fort Knox, where he had originally completed basic training. He chose to reenlist in the Army and continued serving his country for many more years.

His military career included:

• Four years in Hawaii as a Motorcycle Police Officer.
• Four years serving as an Army Recruiter, helping shape the next generation of Soldiers.
• A tour in South Korea as the Noncommissioned Officer in Charge (NCOIC) of a G-2 Security Office.
• A final assignment at Fort Sheridan, serving as the liaison for Army recruiters before retiring from military service.

Throughout his career, Mike demonstrated resilience, courage, and an unwavering commitment to those around him. His service came at a tremendous personal cost. The photographs he cherishes from Vietnam are reminders not only of his own journey, but also of the close friends who stood beside him—two of whom never made it home.

Today, Mike's story serves as a powerful reminder of the sacrifices made by America's veterans. It is a story of perseverance through hardship, dedication to duty, and a lifetime of service that extends far beyond the battlefield.

We are honored to share Mike Alexander's story and thank him for his extraordinary service and sacrifice on behalf of our nation.