Soldiers with the 4th Infantry Division stand in formation during the Nov. 21, 2016, promotion ceremony for Brig. Gen. Christopher T. Donahue, deputy commanding general, 4th Inf. Div. and Fort Carson. (Photo by Antonio Francis)
By Staff Sgt. Diandra J. Harrell
4th Infantry Division Public Affairs Office
A 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson deputy commanding general was promoted to the rank of brigadier general during a ceremony at Founders Field Nov. 21, 2016.
Brig. Gen. Christopher T. Donahue received his first star during the ceremony officiated by Gen. Raymond A. Thomas, commander, U.S. Special Operations Command. Devon Donahue pinned the new rank on her husband, who has served as the 4th Inf. Div. deputy commander since his arrival to the Mountain Post in August.
“This is a huge day for Chris Donahue and the Donahue clan,” said Thomas. “It marks the culmination of 24 years of extraordinary service in the most demanding positions in our Army and joint force.”
Donahue’s previous assignments include director of operations for Joint Special Operations Command and a special assistant to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. He also led platoons in Korea; Fort Polk, Louisiana.; and 3rd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment, at Fort Benning, Georgia.
Following Thomas’ speech, the master of ceremonies called Donahue forward and published the orders as he was flanked by his wife and their five children.
Brig. Gen. Christopher T. Donahue, deputy commanding general, 4th Infantry Division and Fort Carson, receives the first artillery shell fired during his promotion ceremony to brigadier general Nov. 21, 2016, at Founders Field. (Photo by Antonio Francis)
During Donahue’s 24 years as an Army officer, he has led in command at every echelon, from company to brigade, and has deployed 15 times in support of operations in Afghanistan and throughout the Middle East.
“To the NCOs, officers and civilians in formation and who helped put this together, thank you for honoring us today with your professionalism,” Donahue said. “I do understand your presence on the field represents the trust and faith you have in Army leaders and the trust and faith that we (as leaders) have to earn every day. Hold me accountable and each time you see me let me know how I’m doing.
“To the 4th Infantry Division and our great separate formations out in front, thank you … what you do every day is amazing. Thank you for letting me be a part of your ranks.”
After thanking Family and friends, Donahue acknowledged the Soldiers and leaders on the field one last time.
“And again, to the men and women out there in formation, I know you love being out there, but I also know that I have to earn this promotion and that’s my promise to you,” said Donahue. “Steadfast and Loyal, Iron Horse.”