Story by: 1Lt. Jarvis Mace
The Mississippi National Guard proudly announces the promotion of Curtis J. Garrette to the rank of Colonel during a ceremony held on May 1, 2025, at Camp McCain Training Center in Grenada, Mississippi.
Col. Garrette, a native of Lexington, Mississippi, began his military service in 1989 when he enlisted as a Cannon Crewman in Charlie Battery, 2-114th Field Artillery. He was later commissioned as a Military Police Officer in 1999 and has served in various leadership roles across the state and nation.
Currently serving as the Post Commander of Camp McCain, Col. Garrette’s distinguished service includes deployments to Iraq and the Southwest Border, participation in presidential and gubernatorial inaugurations, hurricane responses, and other domestic operations. His extensive career highlights his commitment to readiness, leadership, and service to the state and the country.
“This promotion is a culmination of all the support that I have received from my family and Soldiers throughout the years,” said Col. Garrette. “With this rank comes more responsibilities and challenges, but with faith and family, I stand ready to give even more in defense of my community, the State of Mississippi, and this great nation.”
Col. Garrette holds a Bachelor’s Degree in political science and a Master’s in Sociology from Jackson State University.
He is also a graduate of the Mississippi Department of Corrections Training Academy and the Mississippi Law Enforcement Training Academy.
His military education includes leadership and specialized courses, including the Command and General Staff College, Advanced Operations Course, and Military Police Battalion Commanders’ Course.
Col. Garrette’s awards and decorations include the Bronze Star Medal, Meritorious Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Mississippi Magnolia Medal, and others that reflect his commitment and contributions to the Mississippi National Guard and the United States Army.
He is married to Amanda Powels Garrette. Together, they have three children and six grandchildren.
The Mississippi National Guard extends a heartfelt congratulations to Col. Garrette on this well-deserved promotion and thanks to him for his continued service and leadership.
