Five Army officers assigned to the Exchange marked a major step in their careers recently with promotions. Four advanced to lieutenant colonel, while one achieved the Army’s highest warrant officer grade.
The officers receiving promotions are:
- Lt. Col. Todd Castles, HQ
- Lt. Col. Darryl Barnett II, HQ
- Lt. Col. Peter Thompson, HQ
- Lt. Col. Mitchell Brooks, Europe, Southwest Asia & Africa Region
- Chief Warrant Officer 5 Jeffery Mitchell, Pacific Region (Nov. 1)
“Being promoted helps the Exchange with each person’s ability to continue to network with the services at a higher level,” said Col. Kevin Brown, Exchange Real Estate command engineer and the Exchange’s highest-ranking officer. “The military talent at the Exchange is exceptional, and they are all ready for increased responsibility and command.”
Each promotion not only marks an individual achievement but also ensures that the Army maintains a strong corps of experienced leaders for future missions.
“My expectation is the same as the Army’s,” Brown said. “For them to continue their selfless service to the Exchange, our customers, and their parent service.”
In the Army, a promotion to the rank of lieutenant colonel represents a significant milestone in an officer’s career. It involves taking on greater responsibilities in leadership, planning and managing large-scale operations.
“This promotion means a great deal to me,” said Castles, executive officer to Director/CEO Tom Shull. “With this promotion comes a greater deal of responsibility to knowing more, being out front and being the best I can be for those leaders I follow, to those that depend on me to my left and right—and those who I lead.”
For Barnett, business program manager for Military Clothing, the promotion is more than a career milestone.
“It’s a reflection of the many people who’ve supported me throughout my [more than] 15 years of service,” Barnett said. “Family, friends, mentors and Soldiers have all played a part in my journey. Advancing to this next rank allows me to formally recognize their influence and to recommit myself to serving the nation.”
For Thompson, chief of military support, the promotion served as a reminder of the countless Soldiers, noncommissioned officers, officers, family and friends who have guided and supported him for nearly 17 years of service.
“I owe this achievement more to them than to myself, and I carry a tremendous debt of gratitude for their guidance and example,” Thompson said. “I look forward to the increased responsibility that comes with this rank and the chance to continue serving our Army, the Exchange, our associates and the great customers they support.”
Brooks, chief of plans and operations and executive officer to Europe/Southwest Asia/Africa Region Commander Col. Everett “Bud” Lacroix, described the achievement as both a personal milestone and a testament to the hard work and guidance that shaped his career.
“Reaching the rank of lieutenant colonel is something few officers achieve, and I’m grateful and excited to have earned this opportunity,” Brooks said. “It represents years of perseverance, adaptability and the mentorship of countless leaders who shaped my path. It’s proof that a kid from Memphis, who just wanted to see the world, can build a career of purpose and impact—and that the Army truly rewards hard work and dedication.”
For warrant officers, promotions may carry a different significance. Unlike commissioned officers, warrant officers are technical experts in their fields. Advancing from chief warrant officer 4 to chief warrant officer 5 signals mastery of a specialty and recognition as a senior advisor within the Army.
“I am very thankful for the promotion and will continue to mentor young service members, support leadership initiatives and set the example,” said Mitchell, Pacific Region staff food safety officer. “I am a man of faith, and this promotion is a blessing from my Lord. It taught me that I cannot do anything without my Lord and that faith, perseverance, servant leadership, dedication, willingness and right attitude open the door to endless possibilities.”
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