July 2021
The AOG Service Spotlight highlights members of the Air Force Academy family (grads, cadets, family and friends of the Academy) every month who perform outstanding service that makes a positive and meaningful impact in their communities and beyond. Let these inspiring stories foster a spirit of service within the Air Force Academy family and inspire further commitment to a lifetime of service.
Academy grad, AOG volunteer receives Distinguished Service Award
By U.S. Air Force Academy Public Affairs
A former volunteer faculty member received this year’s Air Force Academy Distinguished Service Award in a ceremony led by Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Richard Clark, July 9.
Garry Dudley, a 1968 Academy graduate and retired lieutenant colonel, learned of his selection for the award in August, but restrictions set at the base to curb the coronavirus postponed an official ceremony until now.
“Everything in Mr. Dudley’s life has revolved around the Air Force Academy,” Clark said at the ceremony in Doolittle Hall, home to the school’s association of graduates. “He graduated here, met his wife here, married in the cadet chapel, returned to the Academy where he was a guest lecturer, a member of multiple association of graduates committees and has sponsored 35 cadets.”
Dudley graduated from the Academy with a bachelor’s degree in basic science, became a pilot and later commanded two security police squadrons.
After retiring from the Air Force, Dudley spent 22 years in project management. His last 12 years in that field were as president and CEO of Pocket PM, LLC, a company he cofounded in 2002. Dudley is also a former president of the Academy’s Association of Graduates’ Class Advisory Senate and a guest lecturer in the school’s management department.
“At one point, he was on 11 committees at one time,” Clark said.
According to award regulations, any individual or group who has contributed significantly and directly to the Academy through their generous donation of time, resources or influence is eligible.
The Academy established the Distinguished Service Award in February 1999.
Learn about more USAFA grads serving their communities. ►
Everything in Mr. Dudley’s life has revolved around the Air Force Academy. He graduated here, met his wife here, married in the cadet chapel, returned to the Academy where he was a guest lecturer, a member of multiple association of graduates committees and has sponsored 35 cadets.
— USAFA Superintendent Lt. Gen. Richard Clark '86
