Roll Call Tribute

Michelle Elaine "Micki" Dunham, LTC USA (Ret) 

October 12, 1959 - July 19, 2025 

Dr. Michelle Elaine Dunham, Lieutenant Colonel, United States Army (Retired), was born on October 12, 1959, and passed away on July 19, 2025, after a courageous battle with ovarian cancer. She lived a life defined by service, discipline, and extraordinary achievement, leaving behind a legacy of a fidelity to principles and honor, leadership, and unwavering dedication to her country and profession.

Dr. Dunham attended Texas A&M University, where she was a proud member of the Corps of Cadets. Upon graduation, she began a distinguished military career that would span decades and take her across the world. Early in her service, she was deployed to Athens, Greece, where she served in Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD)—a field requiring exceptional courage, technical expertise, and composure under pressure. While stationed in Greece, she completed the Athens Marathon, reflecting her discipline, endurance, and determination.

She was later stationed at Stewart Air Force Base in support of West Point. While assigned there, Dr. Dunham was selected to support the inauguration of President Ronald Reagan, an honor reflecting the high level of trust placed in her professionalism and reliability.

Following her assignment at Stewart, Dr. Dunham was stationed in Seoul, South Korea, where she served as a liaison to the Republic of Korea (ROK) Army, strengthening international military cooperation and partnerships.

During the First Gulf War, Dr. Dunham served as the officer in charge of an ammunition depot in Germany, bearing significant responsibility for the safe management and distribution of critical munitions. Her leadership during this period was marked by precision, accountability, and steadfast resolve.

During the Second Gulf War, she was assigned to Illesheim Army Airfield, Germany, where she continued to serve in a vital operational role supporting mission readiness and logistics.

In addition to these assignments, Dr. Dunham was selected for international demining operations in Eastern Europe, where she contributed her expertise to the removal of unexploded ordnance and the restoration of safety in post-conflict regions. As part of this mission, she also trained local personnel to continue demining efforts after her unit redeployed, ensuring long-term sustainability and community safety.

Alongside her military service, Dr. Dunham pursued advanced education with distinction. She earned her master’s degree from Mississippi State University and later completed her Ph.D. at George Mason University in Virginia, reflecting her lifelong commitment to learning and leadership.

Following her service in the United States Army, Dr. Dunham continued her dedication to public service as an employee of the National Park Service and as an instructor in leadership training, mentoring others with the same principles and integrity that guided her own life.

Beyond her professional and military accomplishments, Dr. Dunham was a gifted wood carver. Her most notable work—a full-size, hand-carved carousel horse—earned third place in a worldwide competition, a remarkable achievement showcasing her patience, creativity, and mastery of her craft.

Dr. Dunham is survived by her brother, Michael Dunham, and his wife, Gayle, and by her three beloved nieces, Brittney, Shawna Elizabeth, and Christina.

Dr. Michelle Elaine Dunham’s life, defined by a fidelity to principles and honor, will be remembered with deep respect and lasting gratitude.