JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas – “Doing the right thing, all the time.”
This principle has been the compass for a lifetime of service for Gary McNeal. As an Attorney Advisor for the AFIMSC Judge Advocate office, he is the command’s ethics counselor, providing crucial advice on standards of conduct, administrative law, and civil law matters. His work is foundational to building a culture of integrity across the enterprise.
“We’re creating a culture of ethical conduct across the command in everything that we do,” he said.
This commitment is not merely professional; it's personal, forged through decades of firsthand experience. As an Army Judge Advocate for over 20 years, his service spanned everything from advising counter-narcotics operations to multiple deployments in support of the Global War on Terrorism. This diverse experience gives him a uniquely broad perspective for his current role. He knows firsthand how upholding the law is critical to mission success and believes ethical conduct is the bedrock of public confidence, a trust essential for the military to operate effectively. The outcome, he said, “breeds confidence, not only in members of the Air Force but the public as well.”
His perspective as a veteran and civil servant fuels a drive that didn't end with active-duty retirement. Seeking a new challenge, he embraced a role different from his legal career. Now, as a lieutenant colonel and operations officer in the Texas State Guard, he coordinates operations for teams on the ground during disaster relief efforts.
“I wanted to do something completely different and challenging,” he said.
Whether advising on ethics or leading a response team, Gary knows his work is part of a larger whole.
“It’s a team effort,” he said. “Being able to contribute to that team and knowing it’s directly impacting our mission is very satisfying.”
Through his steadfast counsel, McNeal ensures integrity remains at the heart of the mission.