SSG Michael G. Owen, 31, of Fayetteville, N.C. died Friday, Oct. 15, 2004 as a result of wounds received from an Improvised Explosive Device while on active duty in Iraq.

Owen was born on Sept. 24, 1973 in Camp Lejune, North Carolina.

Michael is survived by his wife, Crystal (Hyatte) Owen of Fayetteville, formerly of Chesterton, his mother and step-father Kay and Steve Hutchison, brother Max and sister Caley Hutchison all of Scottsdale, Ariz. He is also survived by father Glenn Owen and paternal grandparents Frank and Ruth Lee, and stepsister Rhonda Johnston all of Surprise, Arizona.

He entered the Army on Oct. 14, 1992. He was currently classified as a Psychological Operation Specialist. He was assigned to Bravo Company, 9th Psychological Operation Battalion, 4th Psychological Operation Group (Airborne) Fort Bragg, N. C.

Awards have included the Purple Heart, Army Commendation Medal, Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Noncommissioned Officer Professional Development Ribbon, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon and Senior Parachutist Badge. The Bronze Star will be awarded posthumously.

The funeral will be Friday, Oct. 22 at 3 p.m. at the JFK Chapel, on Fort Bragg.

A Memorial service will be held at the JFK Chapel on Fort Bragg, on Thursday, Oct. 21 at 3 p.m.

Memorials may be made to Fisher House, 12 Bassett Street, Fort Bragg, North Carolina 28307-5000, or a Memorial Fund for Mike Owen at 7827 Rosewood Ave., Fayetteville, N.C. 28314 which will be used to establish a scholarship fund for Max and Caley.

Posted 10/21/2004