Michael J. Smith Jr.

United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Michael J. Smith Jr. tragically lost his life on April 17, 2004, during combat operations in Al Anbar Province, Iraq.

Born in Wellsburg, West Virginia, Smith Jr. was the youngest of two children. He grew up in a close-knit family with his sister, Alison, his mother, Marianne, and his father, Mike. He also shared a special bond with his grandmother, Alice, and his church family. Stories passed down describe Smith Jr. as a playful child with a spirited personality. As a teen, he blossomed into a kindhearted, old soul who enjoyed spending time with family and friends and found joy in running track. 

Fueled by deep patriotism and a desire to contribute to a greater purpose, Smith Jr. was profoundly proud of his country. Following in his father’s footsteps—a military veteran who became a state trooper—Smith Jr. had a clear vision for his own future. He proactively pursued this path, enlisting in the armed forces before his 18th birthday, though his deployment officially commenced shortly after his high school graduation in 2001. While serving, Smith Jr. formed unbreakable bonds with the men he served alongside, considering them his brothers in every sense of the word.

From the moment he met his future wife, Alicia, Smith Jr. felt a connection that would last a lifetime. When she walked into his 5th-grade classroom as the new girl from Indiana, he immediately knew she was someone special. He told his friends without hesitation that he was going to marry her someday. In his middle school yearbook, he drew hearts around her picture and boldly labeled her as “Mike’s wife.” Even as a young boy, he carried in his heart a love that would shape the rest of his life.

Alicia currently resides in West Virginia, where she finds fulfillment in her work coordinating military shipments that support service members. After finishing her day job, she heads to the American Legion, where she spends much of her time. The people she’s come to know there have become like family. Through her work with the Legion, she has the opportunity to support the community in meaningful ways—and takes great pride in serving and honoring our veterans.

Smith Jr. was an extraordinary person, a rare gift and a blessing to everyone around him. His kindness and warmth touched those around him, leaving a lasting mark. Smith Jr. taught Alicia to always take the time to say ‘I love you’ and even more time to show it. Never miss a moment—cherish them all with every breath. Love deeply and fiercely, and don’t let hardships make you forget what love truly is.

United States Marine Corps Lance Corporal Michael J. Smith Jr is survived by his loving wife, Alicia, and their beautiful children, Elizabeth and Michael. 

The Tunnel to Towers Foundation has provided the Smith family with a mortgage-free home through the Gold Star Family Home Program.