RICHMOND, Va. –
Family, friends and fellow service members gathered to witness a defining moment in the military career of Trevor W. Dunkle, as he was promoted from sergeant first class to second lieutenant through the highly-selective direct commission program Oct. 18, 2025, at the Virginia National Guard Sgt. Bob Slaughter Headquarters at Defense Supply Center Richmond, Virginia.
The ceremony, filled with emotion, tradition and heartfelt remarks, marked the culmination of more than 16 years of enlisted service in the Virginia Army National Guard. Dunkle, a cavalry scout, joint fires support specialist and Infantryman with deployments, leadership roles and broad operational experience, now transitions to serve as a field artillery officer.
“The lieutenant in front of me today is the future of the Virginia Army National Guard, and of the Army,” said Maj. Connor Miller, executive officer to The Adjutant General of Virginia. “He represents the innovation, adaptability and leadership necessary to navigate the complex challenges of the 21st century.”
During his own remarks, Dunkle expressed deep gratitude for the mentors, leaders and family members who supported his journey.
“There were a lot of hard lessons,” he said. “But the leadership I had over the years, from Sgt. Maj. Gilliam to Sgt. Maj. Timberlake shaped who I became. I wouldn’t be here today without them, and especially without my family.”
He thanked his wife and their two children who joined him for the traditional pinning ceremony. Dunkle also took a moment to recognize other family members for their contributions and support throughout his career.
Dunkle’s career began in 2008 when he enlisted while attending George Mason University. Over the years, he served in many roles and holds multiple military occupations. He served with the 2-183rd Cavalry Regiment, the 1-111th Field Artillery, and the 1st and 3rd Battalions, 116th Infantry Regiment, most recently deploying to Djibouti in the Horn of Africa. His resume includes coordinating multinational live-fire operations, training Navy SEALs and leading readiness efforts that impacted entire battalions.
“We didn’t just get an NCO,” said Maj. Miller, recalling their work together during mobilization. “We got a force multiplier who consistently mystified the leadership of 1st Battalion with his sheer competence. More importantly, he had a profound impact on the readiness of the entire battalion and across the joint force.”
Command Sgt. Maj. Latane Gilliam, senior enlisted leader of the 116th Mobile Brigade Combat Team, praised Dunkle’s growth from a young cavalry trooper to a seasoned leader.
“Trevor, you are certainly one of the first who come to mind when I think of that special cohort of young cavalry troopers that I had a chance to serve with,” Gilliam said. “There is something special about those who raise their right hands during the height of a 20-year-plus conflict; they truly are national treasures. I can say with confidence that you are the right man for this honor, and the Army got a little better today.”
Dunkle earned his commission through the Direct Commissioning Program, governed by NGR 600-100, which provides an alternate path to officership for exceptionally qualified enlisted Soldiers. The process for a direct commission is stringent. Candidates must meet baseline requirements like a bachelor's degree, GT score of 110 and a commissioning physical — but more critically, they must demonstrate a superior service record and earn letters of recommendation from senior leaders, up to the state’s Adjutant General.
“This process is only for a select few individuals who perform above the standard on a consistent basis,” said Capt. Chase Thresher, officer strength manager for the VaARNG. “Sgt. 1st Class Dunkle has outmatched his peers across every pillar. His care, work ethic and experience rightly earned him this honor.”
The ceremony concluded with a standing ovation and a palpable sense of pride in the Virginia National Guard among all in attendance.