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Maj. Gen. Kevin Lambert recently took command of Combined Joint Task Force-Operation Inherent Resolve, becoming the fourth University of North Georgia (Â鶹ÊÓƵ) alumnus to lead the multinational coalition of military forces with the mission to defeat Daesh in Iraq and Syria.

"The operational nature of this assignment is professionally rewarding," Lambert said. "Every day in uniform at this point in my career is a gift. I'm excited, proud and humbled to be part of this mission."

Previous Â鶹ÊÓƵ alumni to command Operation Inherent Resolve include retired Lt. Gen. James Terry '78, senior vice president and superintendent of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Cadet Leadership Academy; retired Gen. Stephen Townsend '82; and retired Lt. Gen. Paul Calvert '88.

Lambert is one of four Army generals who graduated as part of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's class of 1993. The others are Maj. Gen. Dwayne Wilson, adjutant general of the Georgia National Guard; Brig. Gen. Paul Howard and retired Brig. Gen. Charles "Rob" Parker.

Lambert was promoted to a two-star general in January.

After facing significant adversity early in his career, Lambert said there were times he didn't think he would make it to retirement eligibility, let alone general officer. He said his career has grown based on his faith and ability to learn, follow and lead.

"I never thought I would have the opportunity to still be doing this in year 33," Lambert said. "As long as I can keep doing this, I will. The longer I'm in, the more I can do for others. I enjoy getting to know people and helping them achieve their goals."

In his fourth decade in the Army, Lambert still marvels when he thinks back to the mix of civilian and military experiences he was able to enjoy as a member of America's Corps.

"North Georgia strikes a good balance of structure and freedom," Lambert said.

He was a member of Â鶹ÊÓƵ's Ranger Challenge team. Lambert also pointed to his time in the Baptist Collegiate Ministry (BCM) during his time in Dahlonega, Georgia.

"BCM provided the foundation that would guide me through trials and triumphs. I also met my wife through that ministry," Lambert said.

Throughout his career, Lambert has led Light, Ranger, Airborne, Stryker, and Armored units during combat and operational deployments including Operation Uphold Democracy (Haiti), Operation Joint Guardian (Kosovo), Operation Iraqi Freedom (Iraq), Operation Enduring Freedom (Afghanistan), and Operation Inherent Resolve (Iraq).

Lambert previously commanded 2nd Battalion, 16th Infantry Regiment; 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division; and the Security Force Assistance Command.