Navy Talent Acquisition Group Nashville held a change of command ceremony at the Navy Reserve Center, Smyrna, Tennessee, June 2, 2025.
Cmdr. Chrisopher H. Yates relieved Capt. Lacey M. Vestal as the commanding officer.
Vestal, from Wyoming, Pennsylvania, assumed command of Navy Talent Acquisition Group Nashville in 2024. She graduated the U.S. Naval Academy in 2024 with a bachelor’s in political science.
During her tenure, she feels the team surpassed expectations, by achieving over 2,325 cumulative contracts, a 101.6% non-commissioned officer attainment, and shipping more than 2,164 qualified future Sailors, resulting in a 93.7% shipping attainment.
“In 2022, we took a struggling NTAG – struggling with both recruiting production and morale,” said Vestal. “But this team didn’t balk at the high bar set before us, we did not back down in the face of adversity. Instead, we stayed the course and stuck with what we did best, focusing consistent effort on quality talent. Sure enough, we absolutely crushed our 2024 goals, and we continue to dominate in 2025.”
Yates, from Columbia, Missouri, graduated from the University of Missouri in 2006 and was designated a Naval Aviator in 2009.
“I want to thank Capt. Vestal for her steadfast leadership and unwavering devotion to NTAG Nashville,” said Yates. “I could not have asked for a better mentor or commanding officer to guide my growth and understanding of this organization. To the Sailors of NTAG Nashville, your reputation for excellence precedes you. I ask that you continue to bring that same commitment, focus, and drive as we continue to recruit the highest quality Sailors for the fleet. Together, we will meet every challenge with strength, innovation, and honor.”
NTAG Nashville includes 46 Navy recruiting stations across the states of Tennessee, Kentucky, Virginia, Alabama, Mississippi, Arkansas, and Georgia covering 138,000 square miles. NTAG Nashville employs over 200 recruiters, support personnel, and civilians in its mission to recruit individuals who meet standards for naval service.
| Date Taken: | 06.02.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 06.12.2025 20:02 |
| Story ID: | 499580 |
| Location: | SMYRNA, TENNESSEE, US |
| Web Views: | 15 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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