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…