FRANKFORT, Ky. –
U.S. Army Col. Christopher Howell concluded a career of 37 years of service during a retirement ceremony, Oct. 18, 2025.
Howell served multiple assignments in the U.S. Air Force and Kentucky’s Army and Air National Guard, finishing his military career as the commander of the Kentucky Army National Guard’s Medical Detachment (MEDDET).
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Brian Wertzler, Kentucky’s deputy adjutant general, presided over the ceremony at Boone National Guard Center and spoke on the character and quality of Howell’s service and leadership.
“As a colonel, Chris was not just a medical professional, he was also a leader,” said Wertzler. “In leadership, there are few things more powerful than letting people know how much you care and allowing that caring to guide your approach to delivering results. Col. Howell’s leadership style embodies the care of his Soldiers.”
Howell has served as MEDDET commander since July of 2023 and was the first-ever physician’s assistant (PA) to be selected for the position.
Howell enlisted in 1985 as an E-1 in the U.S. Air Force as a member of the security police. He attended the Security Police Academy, Airbase Ground Defense School, and the Ground Launch Cruise Missile School, earning multiple awards and accolades along the way.
In 1990, Howell was honorably discharged from the Air Force to begin his college studies. He attended the University of Kentucky and enlisted in the Air National Guard. After completing PA school at UK in 1998, Howell enlisted in the Army National Guard as a PA with 2nd Battalion, 138th Field Artillery.
He was assigned to MEDDET from 2002 to 2006, then transferred back to the KYANG.
“I met Chris in 2006 in the Air Guard when we were both part of the Medical Group, and I could tell right away there was something different about him,” said U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Angela Himler, commander of Detachment 1, 123rd Medical Group. “He had this calm, steady presence that just put people at ease. He was someone that led not through fear or authority, but through compassion, consistency, and character.”
Upon completion of Air War College in 2014, Howell was selected to be the commander of Kentucky’s Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear and High Yield Explosive (CBRNE) Enhanced Response Force Package (CERF-P).
He transferred back to the KYARNG in 2018, and in 2020, he was the first PA in the KYARNG to be promoted to the rank of colonel. Howell served as the Officer-in-Charge of COVID missions for the KYARNG, and medical provider for the 149th Maneuver Enhancement Brigade during their Southwest Border Mission in 2022.
After the border mission, Howell returned to MEDDET, serving the remainder of his career as commander.
“You pour your time, knowledge, and patience into helping others learn, and it’s not for recognition, but it’s simply because you care,” said Himler. “That’s what defines Chris Howell – he leads with faith, humility, and a genuine desire to see others succeed. He’s the kind of man who never seeks the spotlight, but somehow always becomes the light that others follow.”
In his remarks, Howell expressed his gratitude to the friends, family, and colleagues in attendance for challenging him and supporting him throughout the course of his career.
“As I look out into this crowd, really only one word comes to mind – and that’s grateful,” said Howell. “The relationships, the friendships – all have made me the man who’s in front of you today. I’ve had the privileges of working beside some of the most intelligent people, and witness Soldiers and Airmen who serve their country with dignity and care for those around them with compassion and respect.”
Howell was also awarded the Legion of Merit and the Kentucky Distinguished Service Medal during the ceremony.
“It was never the rank that inspired me, it was always the people I served with,” Howell said. “The leaders who pushed me, the teammates who challenged me, and the Soldiers and Airmen who reminded me why we do what we do. I’ve learned that leadership isn’t about authority, it’s about responsibility, kindness, self-accountability, and self-discipline.”
As the ceremony came to close, Howell shared some final words of encouragement.
“The disciplined warrior earns respect; the kind warrior earns loyalty,” said Howell. “As you go forward, remember this – strong self-discipline will make you unstoppable, being kind will make you unforgettable. Lead with both, and you will never go wrong.”
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