Proclamation in Recognition of SSG Michael Emmanuel Swinton
Published on August 17, 2026
PROCLAMATION
WHEREAS, Staff Sergeant Michael Emmanuel Swinton was born on June 30, 1996, in Fayetteville, North Carolina, to Christel Swinton and Willie Shaun McMillian, and throughout his life exemplified intelligence, compassion, resilience, and an adventurous spirit that inspired all who knew him; and
WHEREAS, inspired by a legacy of military service, Michael enlisted in the United States Army in 2017 and faithfully served his country for nearly nine years, completing assignments at Fort Hood, Texas, and Fort Bragg, North Carolina, and deploying in support of operations in Kuwait, Bahrain, and Iraq with courage, humility, and honor; and
WHEREAS, Michael earned the admiration of his fellow Soldiers and leaders through his unwavering integrity, selfless service, and steadfast commitment to protecting the freedoms enjoyed by our Nation; and
WHEREAS, above every accomplishment in uniform, Michael treasured his roles as a devoted husband to Mia "Mimi" Gonzalez-Swinton and a loving father to Geremy Michael Swinton and Alëía L. Gonzalez-Swinton, finding his greatest joy in the love of his family; and
WHEREAS, his contagious laughter, generous heart, quick wit, and ability to encourage and uplift others left a lasting impression on family, friends, fellow Soldiers, and all whose lives he touched; and
WHEREAS, in 2025, Michael returned to Fort Bragg before once again answering the call to serve in Iraq, demonstrating the courage, selflessness, and dedication that defined both his military service and his character; and
WHEREAS, on July 19, 2026, while serving in Erbil, Iraq, Staff Sergeant Michael Emmanuel Swinton made the ultimate sacrifice in defense of the United States, leaving a legacy of honor, service, and unwavering love for his family and country; and
WHEREAS, his life stands as a testament to the enduring values of duty, integrity, faith, compassion, and love, reminding us that the measure of a person is found not only in the service they render, but in the lives they uplift and the legacy they leave behind.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, Mitch Colvin, Mayor of the City of Fayetteville, North Carolina, on behalf of the City Council and over 210,000 residents, do hereby honorably proclaim a Celebration of life in honor of
SSG MICHAEL EMMANUEL SWINTON
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand and caused the Great Seal of the City of Fayetteville to be affixed this 5th day of August 2026.
Mitch Colvin
Mayor