Major Michael Donnelly
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Maj. Michael Donnelly (1959–June 30, 2005) served in the United States Air Force (USAF) during the first Gulf War and later became a leading activist for sufferers of Gulf War Syndrome. In 1996, he was diagnosed with Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS). He was forced to retire and turned his efforts towards advocating for veterans of the Gulf War. Donnelly campaigned for American soldiers who, as many contend, were exposed to chemicals from destroyed targets and factories in Iraq. He gained national recognition for his efforts, even being featured in an article in People Magazine. He led a six year campaign to convince the federal government of the connection between ALS and participation in the Persian Gulf War. He has provided testimony to Congress regarding this issue.
Donnelly remained devoted to his cause for years, but died of his disease in 2005. The Major Michael Donnelly Land Preserve, in his hometown of South Windsor, Connecticut, is named for him. His funeral was attended by H. Ross Perot, whom Donnelly met while advocating for Gulf War veterans. Donnelly also wrote the book Falcon's Cry.
Donnelly graduated from Fairfield University in 1981.
