Ollie Michael was reportedly born on February 19, 1917, in Carter County, Oklahoma.  Historical records reflect he joined the Marine Corps in October 1940 and after a period of flight training was designated a Marine Corps Enlisted Pilot.  As an enlisted man there was always the issue of being assigned to collateral duties.  During a tour during World War II with Guadalcanal Marine Air Group 14, Michael and another enlisted pilot once found themselves assigned to the task of digging latrines on New Caledonia.  When their commanding officer realized the two combat pilots were missing, they were both soon back flying Douglas SBDs during the Solomons campaign.  Historical records report that Michael was credited with sinking three Japanese ships between November-December 1942. 

Michael proudly served in the Marine Corps as an enlisted pilot until he was discharged in September 1953 with the rank of Master Sergeant.  Following his military service, he first worked as an inspector for the Oklahoma State Department of Agriculture and then became a high school teacher, both in Oklahoma and California for almost 30-years.  Michael died in the VA Hospital in Ardmore, Oklahoma, on December 18, 2013, survived by his second wife, two sons, four grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.  He was buried with full military honors in Highland Cemetery in Durant, Oklahoma.

          MICHAEL (L) WITH ANOTHER ENLISTED PILOT - GUADALCANAL 1942

Submitted by CDR Roy A. Mosteller, USNR (Ret)