About Gerald Gangaram
Gerald’s is a story of incredible challenges met with courage, character, and honor.
Senator Bill Brock; 18th United States Secretary of Labor
Despite early skepticism that he would amount to anything more than a gangster, Gerald Gangaram is a retired U.S. Army Major, widely recognized as a war hero for his commendable service during “Operation Enduring Freedom.” Raised by a single mother in Queens, New York City, Gerald overcame adversity through relentless self-improvement, ultimately earning numerous medals throughout his career as an Apache attack helicopter pilot, a formidable aircraft dubbed “The Dragon” by his adversaries.
Gerald graduated from the U.S. Military Academy at West Point in 2007, commissioning as an Aviation Officer. He excelled in the Army’s flight school, qualifying to pilot the Apache, the world’s most advanced attack helicopter. Known as “the closer” for his ability to handle the most challenging and time-sensitive missions, Gerald’s leadership was quickly recognized.
In 2012, he served as an Executive Officer during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, leading Soldiers and Officers into combat and logging hundreds of combat hours. His results-oriented management and servant-leader mentality were key to his success, as he continuously prioritized the development of his team.
Post-deployment, Gerald commanded the Firebirds, the world’s largest attack company, where his exemplary leadership led to an extended command and his selection as an Army Strategist. He earned a Master’s degree, graduating Summa Cum Laude from Georgetown University with an MBA, and from George Washington University with a Leadership and Management certificate. His final assignment was as a Strategic Planner in the Pentagon’s Department of the Army Directorate of Strategy, Plans, and Policy.
A qualified Apache Instructor Pilot and SERE-C graduate, Gerald’s awards include the Meritorious Service Medal, the Air Medal, the Army Commendation Medal with Valor, the Army Senior Aviator Badge, and the Combat Action Badge. A Herndon Directors Institute Fellow, Gerald serves on the Board of Directors of Communities in Schools of NOVA.
Retired after 11 years of distinguished active duty service, Gerald now lives with his dog Echo in Virginia and leverages his unique perspective as a servant leader in various public service initiatives. He remains committed to a life of public service, continually forging forward.
“The only limits you have are the ones you set on yourself.”
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