Michael M. Rojas
 |
| Age: |
|
21 |
| Hometown: |
Fresno, CA |
| Date of Death: |
4/18/2007 |
| Incident Location: |
Taji, Iraq |
| Branch of Military: |
|
Army |
| Rank: |
Cpl. |
| Unit: |
1st Battalion, 37th Field Artillery Regiment, 3rd Brigade, 2nd Inf |
| Unit's Base: |
Fort Lewis, Wash. |
|
Michael grew up estranged from his father and played that role to an extent with his four younger sisters. He was a standout high school football player, and buddies, in remarks that were read Tuesday, said he frequently subjected them to the highlight video from his gridiron career.
Rojas enlisted after graduating in 2004 from Clovis East High School, where he played football for four years. He deployed to Iraq in June 2006, family members said.
“I got a letter from him recently saying he was in Baghdad, and it was dangerous,” Esquivil said. “He was looking forward to being back home, but was proud to be serving.”
Officials at Rojas’ alma mater held a moment of silence for the soldier April 19.
“He was a pretty good kid and a better-than-average athlete,” Clovis East football coach Tim Murphy said. “He went out the most honorable way you could go out.”