This One Fought Like San Miguel Himself

On August 9, 2005, a detachment of U.S. Army soldiers from 1st Battalion, 76th Regiment, 3d ID was in the middle of a critical mission as part of America’s efforts to get Iraq back up on its feet after Saddam Hussein’s disastrous reign. They were escorting a group of Embassy personnel and Coalition VIPs to an extremely important meeting for the future of the long-suffering nation. The convoy would pass through some of the most dangerous zones in all of Baghdad. There was just no other way.

One of the U.S. Army soldiers protecting the dignitaries that day was Miguel Carrasquillo, a tough Puerto Rican who had grown up in Chicago. Like so many other Michaels, Miguel was a leader and symbol of strength for his family and friends his whole life.

Predictably, there were many malignant groups in the country who did not want that meeting to take place, and they were prepared to go to any lengths to stop it.

Throughout human history, many armies and nations have turned to suicidal troops as a desperate bid to stave off defeat. And it’s no wonder- as westerners we may recoil from the thought, but suicide bombers can have a devastating effect tactically as well as psychologically in war. In one form or another, Militant Islam has always taken advantage of weak-minded souls in this manner to advance their aims, and on this day they would do so again.  

As the convoy rolled onto a main road, one of Miguel’s fellow soldiers spotted a vehicle bearing down on the embassy limousine surrounded by Humvees. 

The vehicle refused to stop, and it’s intent was clear. Despite the danger to himself, Miguel unwashed a torrent of machine gun fire at the vehicle as it sped past.

Instantly the automobile exploded, far short of it’s intended target, The Embassy Personnel, but right next to Miguel’s vehicle, killing him instantly. 

The Protector is an ancient and eternal role for the Spirit of Michael and Miguel Carrasquillo shall always be known as a True Michael, un Miguel Verdad. 

Here are some very touching letters attesting to Miguel’s importance to his family and to his combat heroism.