FRANKFORT, Ky. –
U.S. Army Lt. Col. Gabriel Spicer was promoted to the rank of colonel during a ceremony at the Army Aviation Support Facility located on Boone National Guard Center, July 24, 2025.
Spicer, who has served in the Kentucky National Guard for more than 20 years, was surrounded by family, friends, and fellow Soldiers as he was pinned with the silver eagle insignia of a colonel — a rank achieved by only a small fraction of officers.
Maj. Gen. Haldane Lamberton, Kentucky’s adjutant general, presided over the ceremony and offered remarks highlighting the significance of the milestone.
“Only about six out of every 200 lieutenants get to the rank of colonel,” said Lamberton. “It’s a testament to years of dedication, leadership, and sacrifice. This promotion speaks volumes about Col. Spicer’s professionalism and service.”
Spicer’s military career includes a variety of leadership roles within the Kentucky Army National Guard, including aviation command and operational planning positions. He has deployed in support of overseas missions and contributed to state emergency response operations at home.
The rank of colonel is among the highest field-grade officer positions in the U.S. Army, typically entrusted with command of large units or key staff roles at the state or national level. The promotion reflects both Spicer’s past performance, and the expectation of continued leadership at higher levels of responsibility.
After being pinned, Spicer expressed his gratitude to his family and mentors, crediting their support throughout his military journey.
“I’m truly humbled to be standing here today,” said Spicer. “There are so many members of the Guard family, my family and friends that have influenced me here today. This is a example of how none of us get to a single point in our lives or careers by ourselves -- it’s as a team.”
Spicer is currently the commander of the 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade.