Michael Harold Ollis

SSG Michael Ollis always wanted to be a soldier and serve his country. He admired his grandfathers who served during World War II and his father who served in the Vietnam War. After graduation, he enlisted in the Army striving to be the best soldier that he could be. During his service he became a paratrooper and earned his Ranger Tab.

Michael’s greatest quality was his love and concern for his fellow man. Even as a young boy, he never wanted to see anyone left out and consistently made efforts to include those that might have been excluded from the rest. He displayed not only courage and bravery but also initiative and fortitude in his service. Ultimately, he was awarded the Silver Star and Distinguished Service Cross.

SSG Ollis put himself second. He protected his men and lead from the front. This was true to the end when Michael made the ultimate sacrifice saving the life of a Polish officer, blocking him from the suicide vest of an insurgent. There is a sculpture at Michael’s high school in his honor and in Poznan, Poland the dining hall at the Garrison is named “The Ollis Warrior Grill”.