Michael William Fehrenbacher is a United States Marine Corp Veteran. Fehrenbacher was active duty from 1986 thru 1990, and reserve through 1993. Fehrenbacher joined the Marines, believing it to be the toughest and most distinguished branch of service. After graduating from Providence Catholic High School, his goal was to serve his country and create a path through college, should he choose that route once his active duty was completed.
Upon completion from boot camp at MCRD, San Diego, Fehrenbacher graduated a squad leader and received a meritorious promotion for his outstanding performance in the field, physical performace and in the classroom.
A lean 5'7" and 165 lbs with under 5% body fat, Fehrenbacher completed boot camp with Kilo Company, Platoon 3126, at MCRD San Diego. His next challenge was Military Occupation School in Camp Pendleton, California, a four-month ordeal of extreme physical and mental conditioning beyond most people's comprehension.
Fehrenbacher graduated 4th in a class of approximately 30 Marines, Fehrenbacher was given his choice of duty station, he chose the West Coast and received orders to report to Camp Pendleton, CA. At graduation, Fehrenbacher was 6’1” and 195lbs in June of 1987, and less than 5% body fat.
Fehrenbacher was assigned to 1st FSSG, based in 14 Area of Camp Pendleton, CA.
Fehrenbacher met some of his best friends of his life and one in particular, Karl K. Steinhiser (1967-2011) who was also his best man. Fehrenbacher has stated many times, “The Marine Corp made me the man I am today, I wouldn’t change a thing”. Fehrenbacher was stationed at 1st FSSG, Camp Pendleton, CA for his entire tour, although he received multiple TAD orders for MSSG 11-13, IMEF, and Gallant Eagle & Gallant Night Field Training in 29 Palms, CA, which was considered dessert training for The First Gulf war in Iraq.
Fehrenbacher was always very active in “after hour” activities, at various times, being a member of the 1st FSSG football team, Camp Pendleton Team Marine Corp Bangers baseball team, and the Marine Corp Men’s League Basketball team, an avid weight room lifter, competing in boxing workouts, swim workouts and high mileage runner. Fehrenbacher, to say the least, was extremely active, extremely fit and ultra competitive.
Many have considered him “over the top” or a sore loser, Fehrenbacher has replied to that saying, “I hate to lose, I hate it more than you can imagine, I would rather die. I am not gifted athletically or academically, but my work ethic is. That is why people say I am a sore loser – I am coming for you and I am going to beat you.”
Fehrenbacher was a perfectionist before realizing he was one, with a relentless workout mentality and striving to always be the best, Fehrenbacher received multiple medals for outstanding performance as a Marine in his unit, winning the Battalion Physical Fitness Test (2), marking a 238 & 239 (max 250) at the rifle range and qualify with weapons such as M50, M60, Grenades and the Pistol.
Fehrenbacher also received 2 meritorious promotions within his first 3. 5 Years of service. Fehrenbacher secondary Occupation was called a “Chaser” in which he worked with the base Brig in escorting prisoners to required destinations.
At the end of his term, Fehrenbacher was offered A signing bonus and choice of duty station, choice of any MOS to reenlist. Fehrenbacher also received a letter of commendation in which he was awarded an early 90 day release of duty station in order to go to college. Fehrenbacher accepted the later. His tuition was paid for by the USMC in the form of a grant, and also agreed to a reserve status with the USMC.
Should he not meet his academic standards in the civilian sector, Fehrenbacher would be assigned to active duty, most likely in Iraq. Fehrenbaher met his requirements.
Michael Fehrenbacher is currently the Director of Veterans Service Support Group, a Proud member of the Marine Corp League, and is dedicated to ensuring eligible veterans receive the benefits they deserve. Fehrenbacher is a proud US Marine Corp Veteran, committed to supporting his fellow veterans. Once a Marine, Always a Marine. Semper Fi, Do or Die is his motto.
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