By John Robert Morton, Student and Alumni Affairs Liaison, and Lawson C. “Gus” Stuart, AMU Graduate
As the FIFA® World Cup games captivate fans across North America, one thing remains constant behind every match: the dedicated first responders who keep athletes, spectators and communities safe.
American Military University (AMU) alumnus Lawson C. “Gus” Stuart has dedicated his life to emergency services. As a fire captain for Dyess Air Force Base’s Fire and Emergency Services in Abilene, Texas, Gus now teaches younger generations the importance of emergency services and leadership.
A Calling to Serve the Public
Growing up, Gus developed a deep appreciation for service, hard work and community.
“From an early age, I was drawn to helping others. Whether through volunteer work, church, or simply being someone, I wanted to be the person people could count on for guidance,” Gus says.
Those values ultimately led Gus toward public safety. His experiences taught him that leadership is about serving others, especially when they face the worst day of their lives.
Enrolling at AMU
Like many first responders, Gus’s educational journey has been anything but traditional. While balancing a demanding career, professional certifications, and family responsibilities, he pursued higher education to strengthen both his practical experience and leadership abilities.
Before enrolling at AMU, Gus had already completed an associate degree in fire science from the Community College of the Air Force. He also finished numerous fire service, emergency medical services (EMS) and professional development programs.
Seeking to pair that real-world experience with a stronger academic foundation, he chose to earn a bachelor’s degree in fire science management. AMU’s flexibility allowed Lawson to continue working full-time while taking his courses. The courses he took enabled him to strengthen his technical knowledge and improve his leadership, planning, and decision-making abilities.
He notes, “AMU stood out to me because the faculty and staff understood the realities of working professionals, especially people serving in the military, emergency services, and public safety.
“My experience at AMU was outstanding. The coursework challenged me to think more strategically and broadened my perspective beyond day-to-day emergency response. The professors brought real-world experience into the classroom, and I was able to immediately apply what I learned to my work.
“I particularly enjoyed the courses that focused on leadership, emergency management, disaster planning and organizational decision-making because they connected directly to the challenges I faced in the field.”
Learning from experienced professionals provided the structure that Gus uses in his professional life.
“The professors who made the greatest impact on me were the instructors who encouraged discussion and challenged us to think critically, rather than simply memorize information. Their practical experience brought the material to life.”
Service for All
Gus has spent more than two decades serving in public safety as a firefighter, paramedic, emergency medical services leader, instructor and fire officer.
“What drew me to this profession was the opportunity to make a difference during the moments when people need help the most. Whether we’re responding to medical emergencies, structure fires, hazardous materials incidents, or technical rescues, every call represents an opportunity to serve others with compassion and professionalism,” he says.
Throughout his career, Gus has served in municipal EMS, military fire protection, emergency management and leadership roles. He is passionate about lifelong learning and servant leadership, as well as improving the fire and emergency services profession through education, training, and organizational excellence.
Gus has received numerous local, state, and national honors for leadership and valor:
- Meritorious Service Medal, California Emergency Medical Services Authority (2023)
- Senior Master Sergeant Robert A. McAllister Heroism Award, Air Force Global Strike Command (2025)
- Civilian Achievement Medal, Department of the Air Force (2025)
- Lifesaving Award (Professional Responder), American Red Cross (2025)
- HeartSaver Hero Award, American Heart Association (2025)
- Michael O. McNamee Award of Valor, Firehouse Magazine (2026)
- Robert P. Connelly Medal of Heroism, Kiwanis International (2026)
- Firefighter of the Year 2025, Rotary International (2026)
Gus is also scheduled to receive several additional awards (yet to be presented):
- Public Safety Officer of the Year 2025, American Legion Post 57, Abilene, TX (2025)
- Concurrent Resolution of Commendation, Texas Legislature (2026)
- Proclamation of Commendation, Taylor County Commissioners Court Judge (2026)
- Commendation Resolution, City of Abilene (2026)
- Valor Medal, American Legion Post 57, Abilene, TX (2026)
Advice to Future First Responders
Although Gus has built a noteworthy career, he considers that one of his greatest responsibilities is to prepare future first responders for the demands of the profession.
“Over the years, I’ve continued to seek opportunities to grow – not just for myself, but so I can better mentor the next generation of firefighters and EMS professionals.”
His advice to aspiring first responders reflects the principles that have guided his own career:
- “Never stop learning. The day you think you know everything is the day you become a liability. Education and training should never end.”
- “Character matters as much as competence. Your technical skills may get you hired, but your integrity, humility and professionalism will define your career.”
- “Remember why you started. Awards, promotions and recognition are meaningful, but they should never become the goal. Service to others should always come first.”
Today, Gus continues to develop training programs, teach operational leadership and advocate for excellence. His teaching will help to ensure that future first responders are prepared to answer 911 calls with leadership and dedication.
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About the Author
John Robert Morton is a Student & Alumni Affairs Liaison and has been with the University for 17 years. His bachelor’s degree in European history is from Troy University in Troy, Alabama. He also completed master’s degrees in political science and sports management from American Military University. As a liaison, John Robert enjoys helping students and alumni achieve their personal and professional goals.
About Our Department
The AMU and APU Alumni Affairs Office is dedicated to sustaining lifelong relationships with university alumni by providing engaging opportunities to stay involved and connected. We work closely with various stakeholders to strengthen the alumni experience and offer numerous benefits, services, activities, and events throughout the year.
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