Georgia Military College announces passing of President Emeritus Peter Boylan

MILLEDGEVILLE — Georgia Military College announced recently the passing of Major General Peter Boylan, U.S. Army (Ret.), 20th president of the college. Boylan became president of Georgia Military College in 1992 and remains the longest-serving president since its founding in 1879.

Boylan‘s love for his country and education were a perfect marriage at Georgia Military College, officials at the college said. Forever a patriot, soldier, educator, and servant leader; his mark on GMC is seen all over the campus.

Boylan is most remembered for restoring GMC’s financial stability during his almost 21-year tenure. During his two decades of service, he made the strategic decision to restore and renovate almost every building at GMC’s main campus in Milledgeville. Additionally, the preparatory school and junior college soared to new heights academically and solidified their reputation not only for excellence in the classroom but for producing outstanding young men and women of exceptional character.

“On behalf of the Board of Trustees I share our deepest condolences for the Boylan family,” Chairman of the GMC Board of Trustees George Hogan said. “Major General Boylan fostered a legacy that will resonate for generations to come. He left an indelible mark on GMC, and his memory will live inside our gates forevermore.”

“Major General Boylan had a deep love for our institution and was committed to the betterment of every aspect of GMC,” Randy New, chairman emeritus of the GMC Board of Trustees, said. “His legacy will live on through the countless individuals he has influenced and the enduring impact he has had on Georgia Military College. It was an honor to know and work with him for his entire tenure at GMC.”

Boylan dedicated 31 years of service in the United States Army between 1961 and 1992 in a decorated and distinguished military career. After graduating from the United States Military Academy, he went on to serve two combat tours in the Vietnam War and took part in the invasion of Grenada with the 82nd Airborne Division. He later returned to teach at the United States Military Academy as an assistant professor of Mechanical Engineering and some years later returned as the Commandant of Cadets.

For many years, Boylan continued to serve on the board of trustees for the United States Military Academy. He also served as the commanding general of the storied 10th Mountain Division. His awards and decorations include several for valor in combat and distinguished service. Additionally, he is a 2006 honorary alumnus of GMC. During his tenure as president, Boylan served on GMC’s Board of Trustees and its foundation.

“I had the distinct pleasure of working closely with Major General Boylan for 21 years,” GMC Foundation Chairman David Grant said. “MG Boylan’s leadership was marked by a profound sense of duty for shaping the next generation of leaders. His vision paved the way for GMC to continue to excel in every aspect.”

“We are incredibly grateful to Major General Boylan for his leadership for 21 years,” President of Georgia Military College Lt. Gen. William B. Caldwell, U.S. Army (Ret.) said. “Through his commitment and dedication to our institution, he left a legacy that we continue to build on today. We will remember him and the contributions and impact he made on our great institution.”

Several of Boylan’s notable accomplishments include the construction of Miller Hall, Boylan Hall and the Goldstein Center for the Performing Arts, Parham Hall, Baugh Barracks, Usery Hall, Ruark Athletic Complex, and the Kidd Center, along with renovation of the Old Capitol Building, Sibley-Cone Library and the Cordell Events Center.

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