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Wyoming National Guard
By Joseph Coslett Jr.
CHEYENNE, Wyo. — For Command Sgt. Maj. Spencer A. Jolley, nearly three decades in the Wyoming Army National Guard were defined not by rank or position, but by the Soldiers he mentored and the formations he helped build across the state.
After 29 years of service, Jolley retired following a career marked by deployments, leadership at every level, and a lasting impact on the organization’s readiness and culture.
A native of Lovell, Wyoming, Jolley enlisted in 1995 as a cannon crewmember. What began as a local opportunity to serve quickly grew into a career that would span multiple specialties, leadership roles and communities across Wyoming.
He entered the Active Guard and Reserve program in 2001 as a recruiter supporting Lovell, Powell and Cody before transitioning into training and operations roles. Known as a steady and dependable noncommissioned officer, Jolley built a reputation for leading from the front while taking care of Soldiers.
His deployments to Iraq from 2005 to 2007 and again to Kuwait and Iraq from 2009 to 2010 shaped his leadership approach, reinforcing the importance of trust, accountability and putting Soldiers first in high-pressure environments.
After returning, Jolley played a key role in building the 920th Forward Support Company in northern Wyoming, contributing to the unit’s growth and strengthening the Guard’s presence in rural communities.
Over the course of his career, Jolley held several key leadership positions within the 2nd Battalion, 300th Field Artillery Regiment, including first sergeant and operations sergeant major. His assignments in Sheridan, Casper and Guernsey kept him closely connected to Soldiers across the state and positioned him to influence both readiness and leader development.
In 2021, he was selected as the command sergeant major for the 2nd Battalion, 300th Field Artillery Regiment, serving as the senior enlisted advisor and culminating his enlisted career in a role focused on mentorship, discipline and the welfare of Soldiers.
“Command Sgt. Maj. Jolley’s career represents the very best of the Wyoming Army National Guard,” said Lt. Col. Michael Kingman, former command of the 2-300 Field Artillery Regiment. “His leadership, commitment to Soldiers and dedication to the mission have left a lasting impact on this organization.”
Throughout his service, Jolley remained focused on developing others and building cohesive teams capable of meeting both state and federal missions.
“It’s always been about the people,” Jolley said. “The mission matters, but taking care of Soldiers and helping them succeed is what I’ll carry with me the most.”
Jolley’s career reflects the National Guard’s dual mission, supporting overseas operations while maintaining readiness to respond at home in Wyoming communities.
He lives in Cheyenne with his wife and children.
“Jolley leaves behind a legacy measured not only in positions held, but in the Soldiers he developed, the units he strengthened and the enduring impact he made across the Wyoming Army National Guard,” said Command Sgt. Major Thad Ehde, command senior enlisted leader for the Wyoming National Guard.
Command Sgt. Maj. Spencer A. Jolley stands in front of a coalition sign during a deployment to the Middle East. The image was displayed during his retirement ceremony to highlight his contributions to overseas missions. (Courtesy photo)
ommand Sgt. Maj. Spencer A. Jolley, center, poses with fellow Soldiers during a field training environment. The image was displayed during his retirement ceremony to showcase teamwork and esprit de corps. (Courtesy photo)
ommand Sgt. Maj. Spencer A. Jolley, center, poses with fellow Soldiers during a field training environment. The image was displayed during his retirement ceremony to showcase teamwork and esprit de corps. (Courtesy photo)
Command Sgt. Maj. Spencer A. Jolley, left, stands with fellow service members during a multinational engagement. The image was displayed during his retirement ceremony to highlight his role in building partnerships and coalition relationships. (Courtesy photo)