U.S. Army Brig. Gen. Andy Bates speaks to those in attendance during his promotion ceremony held at Metro Hall in Louisville, Ky. Aug. 7, 2024. Bates has served 33 years in the Active Army and the National Guard and on the civilian side, his's worked for Louisville Metro Government for 26 years. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Sgt. 1st. Class Benjamin Crane)