Body of Sgt. Michael Swinton Returns Home

The remains of United States Army Sergeant Michael Swinton have been brought back to North Carolina, landing at Fayetteville Regional Airport.

Swinton, who was just 30 years old and a father of two, lost his life in mid-July while performing a controlled detonation on a downed drone in Iraq, according to the Department of War.

On July 22nd, President Donald Trump and Secretary of War Pete Hegseth were present for the solemn transfer of four fallen service members, including Swinton, at Dover Air Force Base in Delaware.

Upon his arrival at the North Carolina airport on Monday, Swinton received a water cannon salute, honoring his service, before a motorcade took him to Hope Mills.

Family members were on hand to pay their respects, with his wife, Mia Gonzalez-Swinton, visibly emotional beside her husband’s casket covered with a flag.

Staff Sergeant Michael Swinton
30 years old. Fort Bragg. Killed in Iraq on July 19 while neutralizing a downed drone.

His remains came home to Fort Bragg, NC, Monday under a water cannon salute, then rode in procession to Hope Mills.

A grateful nation thanks you for your…

Swinton served with D Battery, 2nd Battalion, 55th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, part of the 108th Air Defense Artillery Brigade stationed at Fort Bragg. The Army has announced that he will be awarded the Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and Combat Action Badge, and will receive a posthumous promotion to staff sergeant.

“His service will not be forgotten, and his sacrifice is not in vain. We will support Sgt. Swinton’s family and his unit during this difficult period. His loss will inspire his fellow Soldiers to continue the mission,” said Lieutenant General John Rafferty, who oversees the United States Army Space and Missile Defense Command, shortly after Swinton’s death.

It’s worth noting that since the ongoing conflict with Iran began, 18 U.S. service members have lost their lives, with many others injured.