NMMI Alumnus Medal of Honor Achievement
The New Mexico Military Institute is proud to recognize Major Nicholas Dockery, a former NMMI cadet, whose service and leadership reflect the very highest ideals of our profession and our nation. As an alumnus of NMMI and a graduate of the United States Military Academy, Major Dockery exemplifies the character, courage, and selfless service we strive to instill in every cadet who passes through our gates. He has just been approved by the US Congress and Senate for the nation’s highest combat valor award. The Army Decoration Board must now make a recommendation on awarding Dockery the medal, which will then require approval at every level up to the president.
Major Dockery’s actions on October 2, 2012, in Afghanistan, as described in official accounts, represent extraordinary valor under fire. While his unit was ambushed, he repeatedly moved through open ground to rally his soldiers, shielded a fellow service member from a grenade with his own body, and then went in search of a missing soldier. Upon locating that soldier being dragged away unconscious by enemy fighters, Major Dockery engaged the enemy, saved the soldier’s life through immediate medical aid, and exposed himself on an open rooftop to direct supporting fires—actions that ultimately enabled his unit to withdraw safely. His heroism during that engagement resulted in the award of two Silver Stars, among other recognitions.
Beyond the battlefield, Major Dockery’s career reflects sustained excellence and leadership. His service includes selection as a White House Fellow, receipt of the MacArthur Leadership Award, and the Nininger Award in 2017, each recognizing his commitment to service, leadership, and the profession of arms. His recent advancement in the review process for the nation’s highest award for combat valor stands as a testament not only to a single day of heroism, but to a career defined by integrity, courage, and service to others.
Major Dockery’s accomplishments bring great pride to the New Mexico Military Institute. He represents the very best of our alumni—leaders who carry forward NMMI’s legacy of duty, honor, and selfless service. We commend him, thank him for his service, and hold him up as an enduring example to our cadets of what it means to lead with courage when it matters most.
