VIRGINIA, United States — Major Silvia Jemutai, a native of Kenya, achieved a major career milestone on November 14, 2025, after being promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel in the U.S. Army during a ceremony held at Fort Lee, Virginia.
Jemutai, a proud daughter of Kopsiya, Poror, in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County, celebrated the achievement surrounded by family and friends who had traveled from across the U.S. and Kenya.
She dedicated the significant achievement to her late mother, Jacqueline Alice Kirui, honoring her as: “A trailblazer… a woman of strength, vision and courage.”
The newly promoted officer recognized her mother’s sacrifices as instrumental in shaping her path and making the momentous occasion possible.
Jemutai also extended her gratitude to her family, mentors, peers, and soldiers for their unwavering support throughout her military career.
With humility and commitment, Lieutenant Colonel Jemutai reaffirmed her dedication to upholding the core values of the U.S. Army, leading with integrity, and actively mentoring the next generation of military leaders.
The significance of the rank
Lieutenant Colonel is a senior field-grade officer rank in the U.S. Army, placing the officer above a Major and below a Colonel.
Promotion to this rank is highly competitive, typically occurring after approximately 16 to 22 years of active-duty service, and is based on exceptional performance, leadership potential, and extensive military education.
Officers at this rank are entrusted with significant operational, administrative, and strategic responsibilities.
They commonly command a battalion, a key operational unit that can consist of 300 to 1,000 soldiers, depending on the mission and unit type.
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In staff capacities, a Lieutenant Colonel serves as a senior advisor or executive officer at brigade, division, or higher headquarters.
The role is one of the most demanding within the Army’s leadership structure. Lieutenant Colonels are expected to not only demonstrate tactical and operational expertise but also contribute to shaping Army doctrine, strategy, and policy.
They serve as a critical bridge between day-to-day field operations and the U.S. military’s broader strategic objectives.
