In a significant move for military personnel in the Volunteer State, Naudia Cartmell has been appointed to head up the Tennessee Air National Guard's latest addition, the Tennessee Recruiting and Retention Squadron. The transition of power took place through a formal ceremony on Saturday at Nashville's Joint Force Headquarters. Cartmell, formerly holding the rank of Major, received a promotion to Lieutenant Colonel as she took command of the new unit, an event presided over by Brig. Gen. M. Lee Hartley, the Assistant Adjutant General - Air for Tennessee. "It’s a proud day for Tennessee as we establish our Recruiting and Retention Squadron here in Nashville and promote one of our most talented officers to lead it," Hartley was quoted saying, according to the official announcement.
The newly established squadron is a response to the evolving environment of military recruitment and forms part of a nationwide strategy by the Air National Guard to streamline its recruiting efforts. Thus far, Tennessee is one of the pioneering states to set up such a squadron. Comprising 24 members, the squadron will be based out of the Joint Force Headquarters in Nashville. This restructuring initiative is anticipated to enhance the Air National Guard's agility in addressing recruitment challenges. "Tennessee was one of the first states to embrace the changes and establish the new unit, and we know it will be a success," Hartley added.
Another highlight of the ceremonial proceedings was Cartmell's family playing a key role in her promotion. Her new rank was pinned on by her husband, Reginald Jr., her sons, Iven, Reginald III, and Elijah, and her best friend, Latisha. The transition then moved into the new command appointment, with Col. Ted Geasley, Commander of Nashville's 118th Wing, administering her oath of office. "I am honored and humbled by this opportunity," Cartmell stated, paying homage to her family, friends, and fellow Airmen who supported her journey, as narrated in the official press release.
Prior to her latest role, Cartmell's 21-year career has been characterized by diverse command and staff assignments, including her tenure as the Director of Manpower and Personnel for the Tennessee Air National Guard. This role had her overseeing the management of more than 3,000 Air National Guardsmen across Tennessee. "Naudia is an exceptionally talented officer and the right person for this command," echoed Hartley's sentiments. Originally from Nashville, Cartmell's educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in health science from Tennessee State University and a master’s degree in organizational leadership from Trevecca Nazarene University. Her career began with an initial enlistment in the Tennessee Air National Guard's 118th Medical Group in 2004 and evolved through various roles including leadership positions at Nashville’s 118th Force Support Squadron and as the Wing Executive Officer for Nashville’s 118th Wing.
While the Tennessee Recruiting and Retention Squadron marks a new chapter for Cartmell and the Air National Guard, its success relies heavily on the recruitment strategies and management acumen that Cartmell brings to the table. With the establishment of this unit, Tennessee leverages her extensive experience and leadership skills to meet the changing needs of national security and military preparedness. "Joining the Air National Guard was one of the best decisions I ever made," Cartmell said, asserting her passion for the organization and the camaraderie she shares with her fellow Airmen, whom she affectionately refers to as her Guard family.
