Village Kid from Punjab Rises to US Army Lieutenant Colonel — the inspiring story of Major Simratpal “Simmer” Singh gained global attention this week. Village Kid from Punjab is how Singh described himself as he stepped into his new role during a promotion ceremony held on November 26 at the US Army Corps of Engineers – Japan Engineer District (JED) headquarters.
Singh’s parents, Sukhbir Singh and Jasvir Kaur, proudly pinned his new rank in front of family, friends and colleagues. Col Patrick Biggs, the JED commander, led the ceremony and reaffirmed Singh’s oath of office.
During his address, Singh reflected on his long journey from rural Punjab to a prestigious leadership position in the US Army. He credited mentors, fellow soldiers and commanders for guiding his growth. He said he hopes to give back even a fraction of what the Army has offered him.
As deputy commander, Singh helps oversee key engineering missions that support the U.S.–Japan Alliance. His 15-year career includes combat patrols in Afghanistan, leadership roles in power-generation missions, hurricane-response operations, and academic service as an instructor at West Point.
His promotion marks a major milestone in a career defined by grit, discipline and dedication.
