FRANKFORT, Ky. –
The Kentucky Army National Guard promoted Master Sgt. Michael Meredith to the rank of sergeant major during a ceremony at the Boone National Guard Center, Aug. 10, 2026.
U.S. Army Col. Michael Lawson, Kentucky Army National Guard’s deputy chief of staff for personnel (G-1), presided over the ceremony and spoke of Meredith’s impact.
“I started thinking of adjectives to describe his professionalism, his character, commitment, competence, judgement. I went on and on and could not get to anything that he did not accomplish,” Lawson said. “The last thing I saw was leader – this crowd is indicative of how many lives you have touched, how many people you have led, and you’re going to continue to lead.”
Meredith’s wife, Maritza, and his sons, Brayden and Jameson, pinned on his new rank as the order was published.
The achievement represents a career with two decades of experience in human resources and intelligence. Meredith has served assignments with units at the company, battalion, and brigade levels throughout the state, including Headquarters and Headquarters company, 149th Combat Support Brigade; 223rd Military Police Company; 198th Military Police Battalion; 41st Civil Support Team; 75th Troop Command; 1st Battalion, 149th Infantry; and 63rd Theater Aviation Brigade. Most recently, Meredith was the noncommissioned officer in charge of the G-1’s enlisted branch.
As the G-1 sergeant major, Meredith will serve as the senior-enlisted advisor to the deputy chief of staff for personnel, and oversee enlisted personnel actions, promotions, career development, and readiness for thousands of Kentucky National Guard Soldiers.
“Sergeant major is not a destination, it is a call to greater service, and greater responsibility,” Meredith said. “As I assume the duties of the G-1 sergeant major, I commit to upholding the highest standards of our profession.”
Meredith also expressed his gratitude to those who have guided him throughout his career.
“To the leaders who have mentored me, the officers and NCOs who have set the example, and the Soldiers who have trusted me — thank you,” Meredith said. “You have shaped my understanding of what it means to lead, serve, and put the mission and people first.”
He also noted the careful balance that Kentucky’s Citizen-Soldiers must maintain, and the support they need.
“Our National Guard Soldiers balance civilian lives, Families, and the demands of service. It is my duty to help create the conditions for them to succeed in all those roles,” Meredith said. “To every Soldier in this room—your service matters. Your readiness matters. Your Families matter. Take care of each other — the strength of the Kentucky National Guard rests on your shoulders. I am thankful, I am humbled, and with God’s continued guidance, I am ready to give my best to this rank, and this position.”