The promotion comes not in politics, but in the Mississippi National Guard, in which he has served for 32 years. Kelly is a combat engineer and previously served as a Colonel but his promotion ascends him to the rank Brigadier General.
In a tweet, Kelly says that he is humbled and honored to serve the state of Mississippi and the nation.
I am humbled to accept this promotion and honored to serve and represent our state and nation. #MS01 https://t.co/E05QR8YYX5
— Trent Kelly (@RepTrentKelly) December 15, 2017
A ceremony will be held to make the promotion official on January 20, 2018.
Major General Janson D. Boyles, the adjutant general of Mississippi, announces the promotion of Col. Trent Kelly to brigadier general. The ceremony will be held Saturday, January 20, 2018 at the Mississippi National Guard Joint Force Headquarters in Jackson. pic.twitter.com/TrPCYdUiew
— MS National Guard (@nationalguardMS) December 15, 2017
Kelly has served in congress since his election in July 2015.