REDSTONE ARSENAL, AL - Col. Phillip Jolly was promoted to the rank of brigadier general in a pinning ceremony March 16. Soldiers of the Army Reserve Sustainment Command, family, and friends attended the ceremony at The Summit, where Maj. Gen. William Frink officiated.
During the ceremony, the Army Materiel Command Ceremonial Brass Quintet provided the music, and Spc. Michelle Dykes, also with the AMC sang the national anthem a cappella as the Grissom High School JROTC cadets presented the colors.
In honor of earning the rank of brigadier general, the Alabama State Militia Artillery rendered an 11-round cannon salute for Jolly.
Once the promotion order was read, Frink removed the rank of colonel from Jolly’s uniform. Jolly’s daughter, Sabina, placed the newly earned star on his chest while Jolly’s friend Sandy Chastain placed the new rank on his patrol cap.
Once the general officer oath was taken, Jolly’s Gulf War battle buddy Steve Murray presented him with his general officer pistol belt and Jolly’s uncle Larry presented him with his M9 pistol.
Frink, who has known and served with Jolly for many years, was honored to be a part of this special day.
“This marks a new chapter in Colonel Jolly’s career,” Frink said. “When he pins on the star he is to look out for the interest of the entire Army, not just his unit.”
Jolly, commander of the Army Reserve Sustainment Command, thanked all who had mentored and assisted him on his way and emphasized that he did not attain this rank without their assistance.
“This promotion is not about the rank, it’s about being given the opportunity to serve,” Jolly said. “I look forward to the many challenges that will come and will do my best to serve my country and my Soldiers, and have fun along the way.”
Jolly is a 1983 graduate from the University of Mississippi, where he obtained a bachelor of arts degree. He also obtained a master’s in logistics management from Fort Lee, Va., and is a graduate of the Air War College at Maxwell Air Force Base. He brings with him 29 years of service, 10 of which were served while on active duty.