A statement from LTC Patrick O'Sullivan, chair of MSU's Military Science & Leadership Department, about the unfortunate death in Iraq on June 8 of MSU graduate Lt. Michael Fasnacht:
"As a member of our Army ROTC program, Mike Fasnacht was a phenomenal performer and was extremely well liked by the staff, his classmates and fellow ROTC cadets. Mike distinguished himself in everything he did in ROTC and as an MSU student. He finished first in his platoon at National Advanced Leadership Camp at Fort Lewis in summer 2002 - a tremendous feat.
"He set the standard for all cadets in physical fitness by consistently scoring a maximum score on the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). Mike completed airborne and air assault schools as a cadet. He maintained a 3.0 GPA in Microbiology and worked 20-30 hours a week. His outstanding record of achievement as an ROTC cadet was recognized by his selection as an Army ROTC Distinguished Military Graduate in 2003, being selected for active duty service and to be an infantry officer, and his selection to serve as the Gold Bar Recruiter for the Maverick Battalion during the summer of 2003.
"We maintained periodic contact with Mike after he departed our program. He completed Infantry Officer Basic Course (IOBC), Ranger School, Mortar Leaders Course, and Bradley Leaders Course, before joining 1-15 IN in Ft. Benning, GA. He served briefly as the Battalion Assistant S1 (personnel officer) and then became a platoon leader. Mike was clearly doing great things for 1-15 IN and the U.S. Army.
"Mike's loss will be felt by his family, the Maverick Battalion, 1-15 IN, and the U.S. Army at large.
"Having known Mike personally, this is indeed an extremely sad day for me."
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