The UK Brigade of Kentucky Colonels website is now here.

About the Kentucky Colonels

The highest honour awarded by the Commonwealth of Kentucky is that of Kentucky Colonel. Commissions for Kentucky Colonels are given by the Governor of the Commonwealth of Kentucky to individuals in recognition of noteworthy accomplishments and outstanding service to a community, state or nation.

A list of Kentucky Colonels is a Who's Who of outstanding men and women around the world. A Kentucky Colonel’s certificate, signed by the Governor and the Secretary of State and bearing the Great Seal of Kentucky, has hung on the walls of such distinguished leaders as Sir Winston Churchill, Margaret Thatcher, and Presidents Lyndon B. Johnson and Ronald Reagan. Certificates are also proudly displayed by outstanding citizens in all walks of life.

The tradition began in 1813 when Governor Isaac Shelby named one of his officers, Charles Todd, as an “Aide-de-Camp” on the Governor’s staff with the rank and grade of Colonel. Later Governors commissioned Colonels to act as their protective guard; they wore uniforms and were present at most official functions. Other Governors continued this practice and by 1920s their numbers had grown considerably.

In 1932, The Honorable Order of Kentucky Colonels was formally established as “a great non-political brotherhood for the advancement of Kentucky and Kentuckians.” Over the years, the Colonels have contributed millions of dollars to worthy causes. In addition to their collective charitable efforts, the Governor's order creating each individual’s commission states that the Colonelcy carries with it a responsibility to be "Kentucky's ambassadors of good will and fellowship around the world."

The United Kingdom Brigade of Kentucky Colonels

The United Kingdom Brigade of Kentucky Colonels was formed in March 2010 to continue this great tradition as a voluntary association for commissioned Kentucky Colonels living in, or having connections with, the United Kingdom.

As a voluntary association, we aim to support the goodwill objectives of the Kentucky Colonels by supporting worthwhile causes in the UK. We interpret our role as supporting the ‘three goods’ - spreading good will; supporting good causes; and having a good time!

Use of the title 'Colonel'

Kentucky Colonels, including those in the UK, are entitled to use the honorific 'Colonel'. However, it should be stressed that this does not denote that the holder has the military rank of Colonel in the USA or British Army. The title should not be used where there is the possibility of confusion with holders of military rank.

Two more great Colonels...

“Kentucky Colonels is just another name for tradition, and that’s one reason why I’m so proud to be one of you. Another is the number and scope of the good works that the Honorable Order (of Kentucky Colonels) performs and supports. You have held out a hand of brotherhood and goodwill to your neighbour, and in so doing have made America an even better place to live.” Col. Ronald Reagan – 1987