The Tennessee National Guard has announced a top personnel change. Mount Juliet's own Chief Warrant Officer 4 Lance Jenkins has been tapped as the state's new Command Chief Warrant Officer, taking the reins on April 1st. Jenkins will step into the role previously held by Chief Warrant Officer 5 David Ward, who is wrapping up his three-year stint, according to a Tennessee Military Department statement.
Maj. Gen. Warner Ross, Tennessee’s Adjutant General, reflected on Ward's tenure, "Ward has been a great advisor and member of the Tennessee Military Department’s command team," and expressed his eagerness for Jenkins to step into his new role, "I also look forward to working with Chief Jenkins who embodies the standards of excellence, and commitment to our organization's mission. I am confident that he will masterfully serve our state."
Jenkins isn't new to the Tennessee military scene. His journey began in 1989 when he joined the Tennessee National Guard as an M-60 tank crewman. Decades of service in various capacities have punctuated his career, culminating in leadership roles that have prepared him for this new challenge. His resume includes a deployment to Iraq, management of enlisted personnel, and most recently, directing family programs for the Tennessee Guard.
Jenkins' commitment extends beyond his military service, he's a figure in the community as well. His involvement with organizations such as the National Guard Association of Tennessee and the United States Warrant Officer Association, wherein he serves as the treasurer for the Volunteer Chapter, demonstrates his dedication to supporting his fellow service members. Jenkins, along with his wife Heidi, is a resident of Gallatin.
