Kentucky Colonel

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Kentucky Colonel
A letters patent certificate for a Kentucky Colonel issued in 1987 by Governor Martha Layne Collins
Awarded by  Kentucky
Type	State order & order of merit
Established	1813
Country	United States
Seat	Frankfort, Kentucky
Ribbon	Kentucky Blue
Motto	United We Stand Divided We Fall
Eligibility	Civilian
Criteria	Recognition of good deed, contribution to state prosperity, community service, or noteworthy action performed by an individual.
Status	Honorary
Founder	Governor Col. Isaac Shelby
Statistics
First induction	1813
Last induction	Current
Total inductees	About 350,000

Kentucky Colonel is the highest title of honor bestowed by the Commonwealth of Kentucky, and is the best-known of a number of honorary colonelcies conferred by United States governors.^[1] A Kentucky Colonel Commission (the certificate) is awarded in the name of the Commonwealth by the governor of Kentucky to individuals with "Honorable" titular style recognition preceding the names of civilians aged 18 or over, for noteworthy accomplishments, contributions to civil society, remarkable deeds, or outstanding service to the community, state, or a nation.^[2] The Governor bestows the honorable title with a colonelcy commission, by issuance of letters patent.

While many famous and noteworthy people have received commissions as Kentucky colonels, the award is equally available to those of all backgrounds based on their deeds. A Kentucky Colonel is traditionally considered a goodwill ambassador of the Kentucky state, culture, folklore, traditions and values.^[3]