Michael Spears, of Marianna, Florida has made the Army his career since graduating from Marianna High School in 1998.

His journey began when he graduated from basic training at Fort Sill, Oklahoma. After graduation, he was stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado. His next journey would take him to Fort Bragg, North Carolina.

Serving in the U.S. Army has taken Spears across the world and back.

He was deployed two and a half years ago, right after his wife of four years, Jessica, gave birth to their first son, Kage Spears. In July 2008, the family of three welcomed another addition, Lola Mattie.

A few months later, Spears was deployed once more.

He has been been deployed three times total; once in support of OIF, or Operation Iraqi Freedom, and is currently deployed for a second time in support of that same mission.

Mother-in-law, Brenda Todd, said, "He, like many of our Servicemen, miss so much of the joys of their children's early lives."

Yet, during his deployment, Spears befriended a small orphaned girl, who you can see from the picture in the slideshow, lost her family in the war destructions of Iraq.

Spears regularly checks on the little girl, he often brings her items such as writing paper and pens.

His wife, Jessica has even sent her care packages, including clothes and toys; Michael says she is just in awe when she sees the things that he brings to her.

Todd said, "In all the ravages of war, our Soldiers experience during their time overseas, it is heartwarming to know that he can see the need to help the innocent victims of this war.”

Todd said with everything that Michael does, he still has it in his heart to feel like he needs to do something to help.

Jessica explains that Spears has worn many hats in the U.S. Army, including; a vehicle driver, ammunition handler, ammunition team chief, gunner, gun truck team leader and he is currently a Howitzer Section Chief.

"If Michael could make one good thing come of his time spent in Iraq, it would be worth the sacrifices he and his family has had to make," said Todd.

He is very committed to serving his country, therefore, Spears made the decision in November, 2008 to re-enlist indefinitely.

“He is an extremely professional leader and supporter of the Soldiers in his command. Michael would never expect his Soldiers do anything that he himself would not be willing to do,” said Jessica. “He takes his service to his Country very seriously and he understands the sacrifices he and his Soldiers have made to serve their Country and he is very proud of having made the choices he has made.”

His awards and decorations include Army Accommodation Metal (4), Army Achievement metal (3), Unit Citation Award, Army Good Conduct Medal (2), national Defense Service Metal, Armed Forces Expeditionary Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global War on Terrorism, NCO Academy Award, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Ribbon, Combat Action Badge, Airborne Wings, Air Assault Wings & Drivers Badge.

Spears eldest daughter, 7-year-old Leah, currently lives in Colorado. His wife Jessica and their two kids currently reside in Hawaii. In his spare time he loves to spend time with his family and friends. He loves Florida Gators football, fishing, being outdoors and road trips.

The time he has spent with the little girl overseas, making her happy, is also a testament to the Hero Michael is.

SSG Michael Spears, we here at News Channel Seven, along with your whole family, including your wife Jessica, and your mother-in-law, Brenda Todd, would like to personally thank you for giving us the freedom that we have today.

You are truly a hero SSG Michael Spears.

This has been a special Holler at a Hometown Hero from your family back home.

Jessica said, “Michael, please know that I, Leah, Kage and Lola are proud of you and love you so very much and that you are "OUR HERO!"

Also, “B-Ma is proud of you, Michael!!!”

If you would like to nominate a soldier who has served, or is currently serving our country, click on the "Holler at a Hometown Hero" graphic on our homepage, or visit: http://www.wjhg.com/hometownhero/misc/36660424.html