Bryant Promoted to Major in Illinois Army National Guard

Capt. Aaron Bryant was joined by family and friends as he was promoted to the rank of major during a ceremony March 5 at the Illinois State Military Museum in Springfield.

"Captain Bryant is an exceptional officer," said Col. Matthew Garrison, Chief of the Illinois National Guard's Joint Staff. "This promotion is about our trust in his future performance. I see great things coming in his future. I know he's ready because he's been solving strategic level problems for us since he was a newly promoted captain."

Bryant, the operations branch chief of the Illinois National Guard's Joint Staff, enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard in 1998 as a radio operator assigned to the 232nd Combat Sustainment Support Battalion. Bryant deployed with the battalion to Iraq in 2003 as a radio operator and machine gunner on many convoy missions.

After a break in military service, Bryant enlisted in the Illinois Army National Guard in 2013 and entered the traditional Officer Candidate School program. He has held numerous roles throughout the Illinois National Guard. He deployed to Jordan in 2020 with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 2nd Battalion, 130th Infantry Regiment as the executive officer.

"This promotion is not just a personal achievement, but a reflection of the leadership, mentorship, and camaraderie I've been fortunate to experience throughout my career," Bryant said. "Thank you for your guidance, for pushing me, and for trusting me with the responsibilities that have lead me to this moment."

Bryant thanked his family for their support.

"Your unwavering support, understanding, and sacrifice on the foundation upon which my career is built," he said. "Thank you for being my rock through every challenge. I could not have done this without you guys.

"This promotion has given me a renewed sense of commitment. I am keenly aware of the increased responsibility and trust being placed upon me," he said. "I will do my best to uphold the values of our service to lead with integrity."