The ETSU Army ROTC program is continuing to advance and grow, shaping the next generation of officers for the United States Army. However, we're looking back on those officers who have already made significant contributions while serving their nation.

With over 60 inductees, the 2026 ROTC Hall of Fame class became the eighteenth cohort added to the prestigious collection.

This year's inductees are:

  • COL (R) Donald E. Potter
  • COL (R) Brian Hughes
  • SMSgt (R) Allen Dale Jackson

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From left: LTC Powell and COL (R) Donald E. Potter

COL (R) Donald E. Potter

Colonel Donald Potter was commissioned through the ETSU ROTC program in 1974 and went on to serve a 26-year Army career in logistics and maintenance operations.  

Rising from second lieutenant to colonel, Potter served in leadership roles across the Tennessee National Guard, the Pentagon, and US Army South. His career culminated with serving as the Theater Equipment and Maintenance Command (TEAMS) in Panama, the largest military supply, equipment and maintenance operation in the Southern Hemisphere at the time.

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From left: MAJ Johnson and COL (R) Brian Hughes

COL (R) Brian Hughes

Colonel Brian Hughes was commissioned through the ETSU ROTC program in 1993 as an Aviation Officer to launch his 30-year active-duty career. During that period, Hughes commanded units at Fort Bragg, Fort Campbell and Fort Riley and held senior leadership positions supporting deployments in Afghanistan, Honduras and Africa.  

With more than 2,400 flight hours, Hughes has earned numerous honors, including the Distinguished Flying Cross, multiple Legion of Merit awards and three Bronze Star Medals.  

Service didn't end for Hughes after retirement, as he currently works for General Atomics Aeronautical Systems Incorporated and serves on the board of directors for the non-profit My360Tribe to help connect US Special Operations Forces veterans with support, mentorship and community.

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From left: LTC Powell and SMSgt (R) Allen Dale Jackson

SMSgt (R) Allen Dale Jackson

Senior Master Sergeant Allen Dale Jackson enlisted in the US Air Force in 1980 and completed more than 26 years of service in Security Forces, special operations and classified Department of Defense missions. Jackson's career included leadership roles supporting operations in Panama, Bosnia, the Global War on Terror and multinational missions with the Royal Air Force and NATO.  

During his decorated career, Jackson received many honors, including the Defense Meritorious Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Commendation Medal with four oak leaf clusters and Joint Service Achievement Medal with oak leaf.

Since retiring in 2006, Jackson has been a cornerstone of veteran recognition and the preservation of military history in Northeast Tennessee. Through research, community outreach, and memorial initiatives, he has worked to honor hundreds of local service members and preserve their legacies for future generations.