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 a low-income area within Queens, New York City, he consistently pursued self-improvement, ultimately earning numerous medals throughout his career as a pilot of the Apache — an attack helicopter his enemies dubbed “The Dragon.”
Graduating from the US Military Academy at West Point in 2007 with a commission as an Aviation Officer, Gerald excelled in the Army’s flight school and ranked competitively to qualify in the Apache, the world’s most advanced helicopter. His leadership skills quickly earned him recognition as “the closer,” entrusted with the most challenging and time-sensitive missions where failure was not an option.
In 2012, Gerald served as an Executive Officer, leading Soldiers and Officers into combat during Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan. Responsible for aerial security in Afghanistan’s south, he logged hundreds of combat hours on numerous missions. A results-oriented manager with a servant-leader mentality, Gerald prioritized the continuous development of his team, recognizing them as the Army’s greatest asset.
Post-deployment, Gerald was selected to command the Firebirds, the world’s largest attack company, extending his command due to his exemplary leadership. As a result of his proven track record for team building and exemplary command, the Army extended his command and selected him to become an Army Strategist. Transitioning to an Army Strategist role, he obtained 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 the Strategic Planner in the Pentagon’s Department of the Army Directorate of Strategy, Plans, and Policy.
A qualified Apache Instructor Pilot and SERE-C (Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape) POW training 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 also serves on the Board of Directors of Communities in Schools of NOVA.
Retired from the military after 11 years of distinguished active duty service, Gerald now enjoys contributing his unique perspective as a servant leader to various events. He plans to continue a life of public service, always forging forward.
“The only limits you have are the ones you set on yourself.”
Contact Us About Your Event
Tell us about your event and we can start exchanging information.