Marine Corps Sergeant Michael Carnell is the Spirit of a Hero 2021 Recipient. Michael is 43-years old and was diagnosed with Stage IV Colon and Liver Cancer on January 9th, 2021.

Michael has been married to his beautiful wife, Gabriella, for 14 years. They have three children, ages 6, 10, and 12.

​Michael Carnell enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1998 and spent 9-years in the Marines until receiving an Honorable Discharge in 2007. During his time in the Marine Corps, he served as Anti-Tank Assaultmen and as an Intelligence Specialist.

Sergeant Michael J. Carnell, USMC, passed away peacefully in his Texas home on February 2nd, 2024, after a three year battle with Stage IV Cancer. A veteran of OIF/OEF, Sgt. Carnell faithfully served in the U.S. Marine Corps from 1998 until 2006.

Michael was a proud Massachusetts native who joined the U.S. Marine Corps and served in various military occupational specialties, including personnel administration and as an Anti-Tank Assaultman.

Upon completion of Recruit Training at Parris Island, SC, Michael was a member of the Marine Corps Reserves until 1999, when he entered Active Duty service. In 2005, he deployed to Iraq in support of the Gulf War.

Michael continued his service to his country and fellow servicemen and women, through his active participation and assistance to multiple veteran service organizations, to include Spirit of a Hero, One Tribe Foundation, Adaptive Training Foundation, Carry The Load, and many others.

Michael was a true and passionate Patriot and Marine as well as a loving husband and father. He is survived by his wife of 20 years, Gabriella and their three young children.