Colonel Merlin Kynaston is a native of Elizabeth City, NC. He enlisted in the Army in 1999 and commissioned through the Green to Gold program at K-State as a Signal Officer in 2006.

Post-commissioning, COL Kynaston joined the 1st Brigade Combat Team,

82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg, NC where he served as a Joint Network Node Platoon Leader, Combat Engineer Platoon Leader (deployed to Operation IRAQI FREEDOM), and Battalion S-6. Next, he transitioned to the Eighth United States Army G-6 plans and operations officer in Korea. Upon returning stateside, he commanded the 58th Signal Company and later Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 101st Sustainment Brigade at Fort Campbell (deploying both companies in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM). Post command, he served sequentially as an aide-de-camp, JCS Intern in the Joint Staff J-6, and the XO to the Director of Architecture, Operations, Networks, and Space within HQDA CIO/G6. Returning to the tactical force, he served as the 1-2 Stryker Brigade S6 and later Battalion Executive Officer for the 23rd Engineer Battalion both at Joint Base Lewis McChord. Returning to Korea, he led the Joint Data Network Operations for United States Forces Korea. Reassigned to Fort Bragg, COL Kynaston next served as the Deputy G-6, XVIII Airborne Corps and Commanded the 50th Expeditionary Signal Battalion (Enhanced). Most recently, COL Kynaston served as the Assistant Chief of Staff G3 for 7th Signal Command (Theater).

His military education includes the Basic Officer's Leadership Course, Captain's Career Course, Command and General Staff College, United States Army War College, Airborne School, Jumpmaster School, Air Assault School, and Pathfinder School.

He holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from Kansas State University, a Master of Arts degree in Information Technology Management from Webster University, a Master of Policy Management degree from Georgetown University, and a Master of Strategic Studies from the United States Army War College.

His awards include the Bronze Star Medal (two awards), Defense Meritorious Service Medal (two awards), Meritorious Service Medal (five awards), Joint Service Commendation Medal (two awards), Army Commendation Medal (five awards), Joint Service Achievement Medal, the Army Achievement Medal ( six awards), the Armed Forces Service Medal, the Joint Chiefs of Staff Identification Badge, Army Staff Identification Badge, Master Parachutist Badge, Pathfinder Badge, Air Assault Badge, and the Combat Action Badge.

COL Kynaston is married to COL Anastasia Breslow-Kynaston and they have two daughters.