2026 NWHOF Outstanding American: Major General (Ret.) Mike Nardotti

Major General (Ret.) Mike Nardotti has lived a life defined by leadership, service, courage, and excellence on and off the wrestling mat.

Nardotti wrestled at Uniondale High School in New York before continuing his career at the United States Military Academy at West Point. He never had a losing season from junior high school through college and was pinned only once, at the NCAA tournament. At Army, he earned All-America honors at 160 pounds with a sixth-place finish at the 1968 NCAA Division I Championships.

An exceptional student and leader, Nardotti received appointments to both West Point and the United States Naval Academy while also earning scholarship offers from Lehigh University and Dartmouth College. At West Point, he served as Cadet Commander of the 1st Regiment of the Corps of Cadets and Secretary of the Honor Committee. He later earned his juris doctor from Fordham University School of Law.

While recovering from combat wounds suffered in Vietnam, Nardotti volunteered as an assistant wrestling coach at Uniondale High School. After returning to active duty, he served as a wrestling instructor and Plebe coach at West Point while assisting legendary Army coach and Hall of Fame Distinguished Member LeRoy Alitz.

Nardotti served more than 28 years on active duty in the United States Army and became one of the military’s most respected leaders and legal minds. A decorated combat veteran, he earned the Silver Star and Purple Heart for heroism and injuries sustained during a combat mission in Vietnam.

From 1993 to 1997, Nardotti served as the Army Judge Advocate General, overseeing one of the world’s largest law organizations and advising senior military and civilian leaders. Following retirement from active duty, he continued serving others through private legal practice and veteran-focused pro bono work.

For his leadership, military service, and commitment to wrestling, the National Wrestling Hall of Fame proudly honors Mike Nardotti as our 2026 Outstanding American.