Nicholas Dockery

Nicholas Dockery (born 3 October 1981) is an American soldier who was awarded the Medal of Honor for actions in the War in Afghanistan. Born in Indianapolis, Indiana, Dockery enlisted in the Army National Guard before attending the United States Military Academy. He deployed to Afghanistan in 2012, where he and his unit were ambushed in Kapisa Province. Dockery rallied American and Afghan troops to repel the attack, while simultaneously protecting wounded allies. Dockery remained with the US Army until 2026, completing Special Forces training and rising to the rank of major. He served as a White House fellow in 2024, and in 2026 received the Medal of Honor for his actions in Kapisa.

Early life Dockery was born in Indianapolis, Indiana. He attended and graduated from St. John's Military School. Dockery graduated from the United States Military Academy in 2011.

As an infantry officer, Dockery deployed to Afghanistan first to Kunar and Kapisa Province in 2012, and to Zabul Province in 2014.

In 2015, Dockery completed Special Forces Assessment and Selection and was assigned to the 7th Special Forces Group. In 2019, Dockery took command of the group's Headquarters and Headquarters Company. In 2022, Dockery was the aide-de-camp for 1st Special Forces Command's commanding general. He is also a recipient of the Douglas MacArthur Leadership award,

In 2023, Dockery completed graduate courses at Yale University's Jackson School of Global Affairs, and at the United States Military Academy. In 2024, Dockery was a White House fellow, then was assigned to The Pentagon as part of U.S. Army Special Operations Command.

Post-military career and Medal of Honor

In 2025, Dockery began attending the University of Pennsylvania; that same year he created a foundation named after himself focused on supporting art, equine therapy, and funding those who need assistance with mental health. Dockery has experienced post-traumatic stress disorder. In May 2026, Dockery retired from the United States Army. in 2022 Dockery was the only Army officer in the post–September 11th attacks era to have received two Silver Star Medals. In the Senate the legislation was advocated by senators Joni Ernst and Todd Young.