Recently promoted Col. David McLemore congratulates Col. Roger McClellan (left) on his promotion. (U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Rebekah-mae Bruns)

The 39th Brigade Combat Team added another bird to its flock, when Roger McClellan, of Collierville, Tenn., was promoted to the rank of colonel.

McClellan, 48, had the “eagle” pinned on his collar during a short promotion ceremony June 28 at Camp Cooke, where he is serving with the 39th Brigade Combat Team in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom II.

A civil affairs officer for the 39th Brigade, McClellan graduated from the Army War College in 2003 with a master's degree in strategic studies. McClellan also holds a master's degree in business administration from Louisiana Tech University. He has served 26 years with the 39th Brigade, starting as a private in 1973 and working his way up through the ranks.

Initially when McClellan enlisted in the Arkansas Army National Guard, he thought his stay would be short.

“I felt like I'd be in six years and that would be it, but it has always been my commitment that as long as I'm having fun and making a difference, I would stay,” he said. “To this day I have never had a problem putting on this uniform. ”

The ritual of lacing up boots and putting on an army uniform has meaning for McClellan.

“Every time I have the uniform on, I realize there is a commitment to God, my family and the unit,” McClellan said.

Recently promoted Col. David McLemore congratulates Col. Roger McClellan (left) on his new promotion. U.S. Army photo by Staff Sgt. Rebekah-mae Bruns

McClellan is responsible for the oversight of the brigade's civil affairs infrastructure projects in Taji and Baghdad. Projects range from roads and schools to sewage and electricity. His inspiration, he says, are the children.

“The biggest thing I want to do is have an influence on the children,” McClellan said. “You see a smile on their face and you know why you're here. I want to make an opportunity for them.”

What's next for McClellan in his military career?

“I think if you came back five years from now,” McClellan said with a spirited smile, “you'd still see me around.”