Command Sergeant Major Cedric Thomas, a native of Boutte, LA, entered the Army in June 1986 as a Motor Transport Operation. CSM Thomas served in leadership positions from Squad to Two Star Nominative CSM level and compiled over 32 years of service. He is a graduate of the United States Sergeants Major Course Class 55. CSM Thomas’ last and culminating assignment was as the FORSCOM Inspector General Sergeant Major. He is a combat veteran of Desert Shield/Desert Storm, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. He is a Distinguished Member of the Regiment, Ancient Order of Saint Christopher recipient, and Sergeants Audie Murphy and Morales Club member.

CSM Thomas's decorations and badges include Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medal (1 OLC); Meritorious Service Medal (7 OLC); Army Commendation Medal (4 OLC); Army Achievement Medal (5 OLC); Armed Forces Expedition Medal; Good Conduct Medal (9th award); National Defense Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star; Southwest Asia Service Medal with 3 Bronze Stars; Humanitarian Service Medal with 1 Bronze Star; Military Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal; NCO Professional Development Ribbon, with numeral 6; Army Service Ribbon; Overseas Service Ribbon, with numeral 5; Kuwait Liberation Medal; Global War on errorism Service Medal; Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal; Afghan Campaign Medal with 1 Bronze Star; NATO Medal; and the Joint Meritorious Unit Award. Air Assault and Drill Sergeant Badges, Drivers Badge, and the Physical Fitness Badge.

His education includes: Excelsior College – AA – Applied Science, Central Texas College – AA – General Studies, All levels of the Noncommissioned Officer Education System, First Sergeant Course, Sergeants Major Course, Garrison Pre-Command Course, Garrison Sergeant Major Course, Joint Forces Staff College Senior Enlisted Joint PME Course, The US Army War College Senior Leader Seminar, Force Management Course, National Defense University Keystone Command Senior Enlisted Leader Course, Air Assault School, Drill Sergeant School and Inspector General Course