By Matt Chandler

The founding attorney of an Albany law firm that recently opened an office in Buffalo, has been honored for his military service.

Mathew Tully, founding partner of Tully Rinckey PLLC and a Lieutenant Colonel in the New York Army National Guard, was awarded the Bronze Star Medal for his work with the U.S. Army Intelligence and Security Command in Eastern Afghanistan.

Tully serves as a combat arms officer in the National Guard and his military career dates back to 1991, when he joined Hofstra University’s ROTC program. He stepped down from his leadership role with the firm in 2012 to resume his military duties.

Tully was also a recipient of the Purple Heart for wounds he sustained when he was attacked by insurgents in August 2012. He also received the Combat Action Badge after his unit was attacked May 2012.

“Mat’s conduct has always exemplified heroism. He’s courageous and daring — on the front lines and in court,” said the firm’s Managing Partner, Greg Rinckey.

The military citation that accompanied his award of the Bronze Star Medal described Tully as “clearly the most kinetic soldier in this command during this time period.”

Since he began his military career, Tully has served overseas in Iraq, Egypt and Afghanistan. He is currently in a Wounded Warrior unit in Massachusetts, recovering from injuries he sustained in combat. He is expected to return to Tully Rinckey PLLC this summer.