Troy University Chancellor Dr. Jack Hawkins, Jr. was honored at the Pentagon this week.

Hawkins received the Distinguished Public Service Award in recognition of his service on the Air University Board of Visitors.

“Receiving this award is a humbling experience for me as the military has played a major role in my life personally and professionally,” Hawkins said.

Hawkins was first appointed as a member of the Board in 2004 and has served as chairman since 2009.

Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley made the presentation to Hawkins on Thursday. In addition to the award, Hawkins also received a citation commending him for contributing “immeasurably to Air Force education efforts.”

“Air University is a remarkable institution and it has been rewarding to serve with the outstanding members of the Board of Visitors and the capable leadership of AU,” Hawkins said.

“I shall forever be a strong supporter of the world’s finest Air Force.”

Members of the Air University Board of Visitors are selected from the fields of education, business and industry, the professions, and public service. The Board of Visitors exists to provide the Secretary of the Air Force advice and recommendations on matters pertaining to the educational, doctrinal and research policies and activities of the Air University.

In 1967, Hawkins was commissioned a lieutenant in the U.S. Marine Corps and served as a platoon leader during the Vietnam War. During his tour of duty, Hawkins’ platoon served with the Republic of Korea Marine Corps. He received the Bronze Star, the Purple Heart and a citation from the Korean Marine Corps for his combat duty.

Prior to becoming chancellor of Troy University, Hawkins served as an assistant dean at the University of Alabama at Birmingham and the president of the Alabama Institute for the Deaf and Blind in Talladega.