The commission of Kentucky Colonel is the highest title of honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky. It is a recognition of an individual’s noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to our community, state, and nation.

The Kentucky Colonels is an independent, nonprofit organization with the purpose of aiding and promoting nonprofits in the Commonwealth and its citizens. Membership is open to anyone who has been commissioned as a Kentucky Colonel.

In the early 1800s, the first Governor of the Commonwealth, Isaac Shelby, commissioned returning Kentucky militia members as aides-de-camp for their successful campaign during the War of 1812. Only a sitting Governor can commission a Kentucky Colonel, the …

We choose to live out our Kentucky Colonel commission through continued service and charitable contributions. Trustees thoroughly vet grant requests made to the Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels to ensure donations to our Good Works Program positively affect the largest number of people in need.

The Kentucky Colonels, appointed by Sampson and Laffoon and organized by Colonel Olson, went to work. New York-based Colonels collected five dollars from each member (the equivalent of nearly $110 today). In California, Colonels such …

From the Derby Eve galas of the 1930s to our trackside participation, post-Derby barbeques, and fall race days at historic Churchill Downs, the member colonels have historically found many ways to celebrate the Kentucky Colonels.

Many famous and noteworthy people have received commissions as Kentucky colonels, the highest title of honor bestowed by the Governor of Kentucky.

Kentucky Colonels are “Aides-de-Camp” to the Governor of Kentucky. That was the title given to Charles S. Todd in 1813 when he became an aide to Governor Isaac Shelby and thus became the first Kentucky Colonel. Through the late 1800s uniformed Kentucky …

Made possible by contributions from Kentucky Colonels around the world. How to Apply Step 1: Email your Letter of Intent to [email protected]. Step 2: After your Letter of Intent is reviewed, and if approved, you will receive an email with an access code that will grant you access to the available applications.

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