Michael Ryals

Hometown: Johnson City, TN
Branch of Service: US Navy
Rank: Hospital Corpsman 2nd Class
Awards: Purple Heart, Fleet Marine Force Warfare Device, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Valor, Combat Action Ribbon
Memberships: Military Order of the Purple Heart
Theater: Iraq

Born in Johnson City, Tenn., Michael grew up as an Air Force brat, as his father served 20 years on active duty. Michael later enlisted in the U.S. Navy as a Hospital Corpsman. After completing Recruit Training and “A” School, he was assigned to Naval Hospital Great Lakes, where he worked at the Tranquility Clinic supporting Recruit Training Command.

Michael then attended Field Medical Service School at Camp Johnson, N.C. Upon completion, he was assigned to 2nd Marine Division, 2nd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion, Alpha Company, and deployed to Iraq. On Oct. 29, 2006, while on a foot patrol, Michael was injured by an IED, sustaining a TBI and shrapnel wounds. After 30 days of in-country rehabilitation, he returned to his platoon and successfully completed the deployment.

After separating from active duty, Michael joined the Navy Reserves and was assigned to 4th Marine Logistics Group, 4th Supply Company, based out of Raleigh, N.C. There, he served as the Assistant Leading Petty Officer for the medical section. While in the reserves, Michael earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Campbell University.

Michael lives in Piney Flats, Tenn., with his wife, Shannon, and their two daughters, Madi and Abby. He enjoys working on the family farm and spending time outdoors hunting and fishing across Northeast Tennessee. When he’s not attending his daughters’ school or sporting events, he can often be found enjoying a lazy day on Watauga Lake or exploring the region’s trails and trout streams.