Craig Morgan is officially a member of the U.S. military again. The singer, veteran and longtime supporter of the military enlisted and was sworn in to the U.S. Army Reserve on Saturday, July 29, while onstage at the Grand Ole Opry.
Morgan's ceremony came as a surprise to the sold-out Opry audience. The newly-minted Staff Sergeant and Warrant Officer candidate wore his military uniform for the occasion, and he reenlisted while standing in front of the American flag. He then performed his song, "Soldier," while carrying the flag.
"I'm excited to once again serve my country and be all I can be in hopes of encouraging others to be a part of something greater than ourselves," Morgan said of his new appointment. "I love being an artist but I consider it a true privilege and honor to work with what I believe are the greatest of Americans, my fellow soldiers. God Bless America. Go Army."
General Andrew Poppas, Commander, US Army Forces Command, officiated Morgan's ceremony.
"No matter who you are or where you're from, service in the United States Army is a unique, life-changing honor," Poppas said. "Every Soldier who enters the Army has the opportunity to become the best version of themselves, and Staff Sgt. Morgan is no exception. I look forward to seeing what he accomplishes and how he impacts other Soldiers around the Army."
Chris Hollo
Prior to his music career, Morgan spent 17 years in the Army and Army Reserve, serving with the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions as an E-6 Staff Sergeant and Fire Support Specialist. His certifications include Airborne, Air Assault and Rappel Master. As a new member of the Army Reserve, Morgan will still be able to carry on a civilian career, and he will continue to tour and release music.
Morgan is a recipient of the Army's Outstanding Civilian Service Medal and the USO Merit Award. He is also a member of the U.S. Field Artillery Hall of Fame. He will be assigned to Redstone Arsenal, Ala. in his new post.
Morgan will be busy with his music career this fall as he kicks off his God, Family, Country Tour 2023 in partnership with Operation Finally Home. The tour will begin September 20 in Englewood, N.J., and run through the end of October.
