Eastern NC Guard Officer Promoted To Colonel

North Carolina National Guardsman Kevin Hinton, a career Infantry officer with more than 30 years of experience, multiple State Active Duty missions, and two wartime deployments, was promoted to colonel at the NCNG Joint Force Headquarters in Raleigh, North Carolina, on Oct. 23, 2026.

“I always knew I would join the Army, but I never knew I would make Colonel,” said Hinton.

The promotion highlighted his leadership, increased responsibility, and achievement as a senior NCNG mobilization, training, and readiness expert.

“From the heart, I have watched him command; I trust him,” said Army Brig. Gen. Wes Morrison, the presiding official for the ceremony, and NCNG assistant adjutant general - maneuver.

Hinton thanked Soldiers, Airmen, friends, peers, family, retired military leaders, fellow NCNG officers, Soldiers, and civilian staff for their support.

“This is going to be about me thanking the people who helped me get here,” said Hinton.

As part of the ceremony, his family pinned the silver eagles, the rank of colonel, on his uniform.

“No one gets here alone,” said Hinton.

Hinton’s former commander, retired U.S. Army Col. Barney Barnhill, administered the oath of office all officers take when promoted.

“He back in 2002 convinced me to get a commission (as an officer),” said Hinton.

Hinton has commanded NCNG Soldiers at the platoon, company, and battalion level. He has brought his years of experience to staff positions, including serving as a bilateral affairs officer in Botswana, a recruiting leader, a branch chief, and the NCNG’s Operations and Plans officer.

“I have confidence in his abilities,” said Morrison, who deployed to Iraq with Hinton.

Hinton has long ties to eastern North Carolina, including local high school and college studies in the region, and service in multiple NCNG units in the area, including the 30th Armored Brigade Combat Team and 60th Troop Command.

“I took JROTC at Northern Nash High School, and I am a N.C. Wesleyan grad as well,” said Hinton.

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