10/21/2026
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of 1LT Louis N. “Chap” Ashmore, GMC Junior College Class of 1965 and a 2023 inductee into Georgia Military College’s Hall of Heroes.
GMC’s Hall of Heroes recognizes distinguished alumni whose extraordinary military service, leadership, courage, and sacrifice exemplify the highest ideals of the institution.
In honor and memory of 1LT Ashmore, flags across Georgia Military College's campus will be flown at half-staff on Wednesday, October 21, and Thursday, October 22, 2026.
Louis N. “Chap” Ashmore attributed much of his life’s success in the Vietnam War and later in the business world to the foundational lessons of leadership he learned at Georgia Military College. He attended GMC from 1963-1965, graduating with his associate degree and then obtained a Building Construction degree from the University of Florida.
Upon his bachelor’s graduation, he entered the U.S. Army in 1968 as a Second Lieutenant in the Infantry. He graduated from the Infantry Officer’s Basic Course, Airborne School, and Ranger School, and was then assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division, where he completed Jumpmaster School. On October 20, 1969, he was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Regiment, First Cavalry Division in Vietnam and was promoted to First Lieutenant.
While serving with C Company as a Platoon Leader, he led a Ranger Recon Team to secure a position for a fire base in Cambodia, “Fire Base X-Ray.”
While serving in the Vietnam War, 1LT Ashmore was awarded numerous medals for his heroism and service. He earned the Silver Star for gallantry in action during a firefight where he took two rocket launchers and crawled under intense fire to eliminate an enemy location. He received the Bronze Star with “V” Device for heroism in ground combat against hostile forces. While under intense fire including RPG, mortar, and machine gun fire, 1LT Ashmore moved from position to position to direct his men so they would not be surrounded by the enemy’s superior forces. He was also awarded the Bronze Star for achievement in ground operations against hostile forces.
1LT Ashmore was wounded on February 3, 1970, when he was hit in the leg and upper body. In total, he spent almost an entire year in the hospital recovering from his injuries. For the wounds he sustained in battle, 1LT Ashmore was awarded the Purple Heart.
After serving in Vietnam, 1LT Ashmore joined the 160th Military Police Battalion in Tallahassee, Florida. He was promoted to Captain and assumed the position of Company Commander. Ashmore retired from the U.S. Army in 1980.
Beyond his distinguished military service, 1LT Ashmore remained a devoted supporter of Georgia Military College throughout his life. His connection to GMC extended far beyond his years as a student, as he regularly returned to campus with his family for Military Heritage Weekend and remained engaged with fellow alumni, including attending GMC’s Savannah Alumni event this past spring. His generosity was also reflected in his support of the GMC Vietnam Veterans Endowment and the Old Capitol Square banner initiative. His continued presence, generosity, and dedication to GMC reflected the deep pride he carried for his alma mater and his commitment to preserving its legacy for future generations of Bulldogs.
1LT Ashmore was married to his wife, Marie, for 54 years. Together they had one daughter, Addie, and one granddaughter, Jessie Lanier. His love for Georgia Military College was shared by his family, who took great pride in the institution and cherished their visits to campus alongside him over the years. Marie, Addie, and Jessie Lanier developed a deep appreciation and reverence for GMC and the traditions that meant so much to him. They plan to honor his memory and continue his legacy by returning to campus and maintaining the special connection to GMC that he held so dear.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Ashmore family, his friends, and all who had the privilege of knowing him. His extraordinary courage, leadership, and service to our nation will forever remain part of Georgia Military College’s proud legacy.
