I actually started using my MGIB a year after I ETSed in 92 on the West Coast.

I had just started my first semester when I needed to go back to Micronesia for a death in the immediate family.

Now, I left without letting anyone know... and it's been more than 10 years (the allotted time).

Is there any remote possibility of getting back onto the program, or has the time REALLY expired for me?

You must use VA Education Benefits within 10 years of your seperation from Active Duty - so for you that was 2002. The are appeal procedures for prolonged medical illness and things of that nature but just failing to go back to school won't work.