Chatham Soldier Pins on Lieutenant Colonel Oak Leaves

Illinois Army National Guard Maj. Zachary DeGroot, of Chatham, the Illinois Army National Guard's state training officer and commander of 1st Battalion, 106th Assault Helicopter Regiment, was promoted to lieutenant colonel in a ceremony July 16 at the Illinois Military Academy, Camp Lincoln, Springfield.

DeGroot commissioned into the active component of the U.S. Army as an aviation officer in 2006 through Southern Illinois University-Carbondale's Reserve Officer Training Corps and served in a variety of command and staff positions before transitioning into the Illinois Army National Guard in 2022.

"I remember when Zach came to the Illinois National Guard in 2022," Maj. Gen. Rodney Boyd, the Adjutant General of Illinois and Commander of the Illinois National Guard, said. "He came to my office as sort of an introduction. When he left my office, I thought that guy is sharp. If he sticks around long enough, he'll have a future in our organization."

Since becoming a member of the ILARNG, DeGroot has served as an Active Guard and Reserve Soldier as the officer in charge, 1-106th Assault Helicopter Battalion, and assistant to the ILARNG Chief of Staff, before becoming the ILARNG state training officer (G-3/7)

Boyd said he has had the privilege of working with DeGroot as he served as the assistant to the Chief of Staff.

"He was always on point and very much detail oriented," he said. "As he accepts this promotion, it's going to be even more important that he stay detailed oriented and specific as he is. When you're a commander, people listen. You must be specific in how you communicate and detail the missions you give to people who serve under you."

Boyd said he has no doubt DeGroot will excel as a leader.

"When I talk to Zach, I see a genuine heart to take care of those who will eventually serve under him," he said.

Boyd also thanked DeGroot's family, wife Bo, and sons, Zachary, and Gabriel, for their support.

"Because of your support, we get to do what we love and that is wear this uniform and serve this great state and nation," Boyd said. "Zach will need your continued support as he moves forward in his career."

DeGroot said his promotion was made possible by the unwavering support of several people.

"To my wife, Bo, and sons, Zachary and Gabriel, your constant encouragement, understanding and sacrifices have been the backbone of my strength and determination," he said. "It has fueled my dedication and commitment to serve our great nation."

"From several active-duty assignments to back home in Illinois, you and the boys have always been by my side," he said. "Thank you for standing by me during two Afghanistan deployments, countless field training exercises and schools. Thank you for being a pillar of support."

DeGroot also thanked his parents, mother, Dorothy, and father, C.A. for their support.

"I have the deepest gratitude for my parents, whose values and teachings have shaped me into the person I am today," he said. "Their steadfast support and wisdom have been invaluable throughout my career. Without their upbringing and guidance, I would not have joined the Army nor have my beautiful family."

DeGroot said he still has fond memories of he and his father, who was drafted into the Army in 1968, discussing career routes as he signed the scholarship through SIU-C.

"Who would have known that one decision would have set the course for where I am at today," he said. "Thank you to my father for sharing stories of his time in the Army as a draftee during Vietnam and the challenges he faced. His stories inspired me to join the Army and start a new family tradition of service to this nation."

DeGroot also thanked military leaders and mentors who have guided him along his journey in the U.S. Army.

"Your wisdom and guidance have been instrumental to my development as an officer," he said. "Your leadership has inspired me to strive for excellence. I am deeply grateful for the opportunities and responsibilities entrusted to me."

DeGroot called his two deployments to Afghanistan as among the most challenging, rewarding, and exciting experiences of his career.

"These assignments tested my abilities to underscore the importance of teamwork, resiliency, and dedication," he said. "I am filled with gratitude and a new sense of purpose. I am honored to serve alongside each and everyone here today. I look forward to the new opportunities and challenges that lie ahead."

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