Photo By Spc. Jessica Pena | Brg. Gen. Shawn Fuellenbach, assistant adjutant general, poses with Col. Michael Czipka, during Czipka’s retirement ceremony, at Camp Williams, Utah, June 4, 2026.Col Czipka enlisted in the United States Army in 1995, serving as a combat engineer until he commissioned as an infantry officer assigned to the 19th Special Forces (Airborne) in 1999. (Utah Army National Guard photo by Spc. Jessica Pena) see less
| View Image Page
LEHI, Utah – Col. Michael Czipka retired from the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) on Camp Williams, Utah, June 4, 2026. Czipka enlisted in the United States Army in 1995 before commissioning as an Infantry Officer to the 19th Special Forces Group (Airborne) in 1999. He completed several officer courses including the Special Forces Officer Course, the Infantry Officers Advanced Course and the Logistics Officer Advanced Course.
Czipka has received several decorations throughout his career, including the Special Forces Tab, Bangladesh, Korean, Tunisisan and Moroccan jump wings, German Armed Forces Proficiency Badge, Army Commendation Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the Army Achievement Medal with two Oak Leaf Clusters, along with numerous other state and service awards.
“When people hear my name years from now, I don’t hope that they hear a rank or a position,” Czipka said.“ I hope they remember that I treated people fairly. That I was transparent, that I accepted accountability and that I cared about people.”
Czipka has been mobilized three times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom to Afghanistan, the Philippines and the Horn of Africa.
During the ceremony, Czipka was appreciative of the leadership and Soldiers he worked with throughout his career. He was especially appreciative of his family.
“In many ways,” Czipka said, talking to his daughter. “What you do naturally is what leaders spend years trying to accomplish.”
Subscribe
