Craig Morgan Promoted to Chief Warrant Officer II
Country singer Craig Morgan has expressed a deep sense of honor after being promoted to Chief Warrant Officer II (CW2) in the Department of Defense. In a recent chat, he discussed the promotion ceremony, which was led by Army Secretary Pete Hegseth on January 15 at the Pentagon.
“It was an honor,” Morgan shared. “Whenever one of the senior leaders in the chain of command formalizes your rank, it’s a big deal.” He reflected on the emotions tied to the ceremony, noting the mix of pride and humility he felt.
After serving in the military for two decades while simultaneously advancing his music career, Morgan said he’s drawn to these two feelings—humility and pride. “I hope people can see the pride we have in our country and its military,” he added.
“It was an honor. It’s always a great honor when one of the senior leaders in the chain of command locks in your position.”
— Craig Morgan
He emphasized that he aims to represent those who may not have similar recognition. “In the military, you rarely find a better balance of pride and humility,” he noted, suggesting that it exemplifies these qualities more than other professions.
If anyone in the military wants a similar promotion, Morgan mentioned that they can reach out to Hegseth via email. He also shared an interesting detail about the timing of his promotion; he happened to be in Washington, D.C., for a conference related to the Army’s suicide prevention program, and that’s when his promotion was finalized.
Morgan re-enlisted in the Army Reserve in 2023 at 59, having previously served 17 years as an E-6 sergeant and fire support specialist. He maintained a career in music while serving in the Army Reserve. Before this promotion, he held the rank of sergeant.
Despite his successful music career, Morgan has received accolades while working with the U.S.O., including the Army Distinguished Civilian Service Medal. He admitted to having doubts about balancing both his military and music careers at one point, explaining that his decision to leave the Army initially stemmed from concerns about fulfilling the demands of both paths.
But the reasons for his re-enlistment are pretty straightforward. “I’m at a stage in my career where I can’t afford to hire a team for every aspect of my music,” he explained. He highlighted that now, his music operation resembles a larger business, complete with a CEO and CFO.
“I’m leveraging military resources better now,” he said, noting how he’s changed from a do-it-yourself attitude to relying on his team. Morgan’s ongoing military service is important to him for both physical and emotional reasons, as he aims to earn a letter signifying his completed service.
“It’s about wanting that acknowledgment,” he mentioned, expressing a desire to retire with a formal recognition of his commitment to the country.
