In 1950, Carlsbad Caveman Fred K. Mahaffey ran 99 yards for a touchdown during the state championship game against Artesia, winning the championship. He graduated from Carlsbad High School in 1951 and went on to become New Mexico’s only four-star general. As an outstanding scholar and athlete, he is celebrated not only for his memorable high school career but is in the Hall of Fame at the University of Denver for earning All-American and All-Skyline Conference honors for his still- unbroken football records. He graduated with a degree in business, was drafted by the Detroit Lions to play football, but decided on a career with the Army. His military education included the U.S. Army Ranger and Airborne School, the Army Command and General Staff College, and the National War College. He also earned a Master’s Degree in International Affairs from George Washington University.

Mahaffey used his training and skills in an historic military career, becoming one of the youngest four-star generals ever commissioned. He served two tours in Vietnam and was awarded three Silver Stars, two Distinguished Flying Crosses and four Bronze Stars for valor in combat. He was awarded a Distinguished Service Medal, the Army’s highest non-combat award, and four Legions of Merit for exemplary service. He was a steadfast proponent of the Army Rangers, believing that Ranger training “makes a good soldier better.” He was inducted into the Ranger Hall of Fame, and exemplified the Ranger motto “Rangers, Lead the Way.” General Mahaffey shared his life with his wife, Jane Mahaffey (formerly Jane Ann Garrett), and his four daughters, Lorrie, Selene, Julie and Melissa.