Major Silvia Jemutai, a distinguished Kenyan-born U.S. Army officer, has been promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, marking a major milestone in her military career. The promotion ceremony took place on 14 November 2025 at Fort Lee, Virginia.
Lieutenant Colonel Jemutai, who hails from Kopsiya, Poror in Eldama Ravine, Baringo County, was joined by close family and friends who travelled from different parts of the United States and Kenya to witness the momentous achievement.
In an emotional tribute, she dedicated her promotion to her late mother, Jacqueline Alice Kirui, describing her as a pillar of strength whose vision and sacrifices shaped her journey.
“She was the trailblazer of our family — a woman of strength, vision and courage,” Jemutai said. “She opened doors I could never have imagined, and her belief in me made this moment possible. Although she is not physically here, her spirit lives within me. This silver oak leaf is dedicated to her and her sacrifices.”
Jemutai also expressed gratitude to her family, friends, mentors, peers and Soldiers who have supported and encouraged her throughout her career.
Reflecting on the weight of her new rank, she noted that becoming a Lieutenant Colonel comes with greater expectations and responsibility.
“This rank represents the Army’s confidence that I am ready to shoulder greater responsibility — to make difficult decisions, uphold Army Values, and mentor the next generation of rising leaders,” she said. “The next generation is the future of the Army, and I’m humbled to be part of that journey.”
She affirmed her commitment to leading with integrity, prioritising soldiers and their families, and remaining mission-focused.
As she steps into this new chapter, Lieutenant Colonel Jemutai says she does so with humility, gratitude and determination — holding firmly to the values she learned growing up in Baringo and the lessons instilled in her by her late mother.
From Kopsiya Poror to the world, Kenyans are celebrating one of their own rising through the ranks. Congratulations to Lieutenant Colonel Silvia Jemutai, a proud daughter of Lembus.
By Samson Jura
