Staff Sergeant Nathaniel Ramos, a recruiter with the Woodstock-based H Company "Honeybadgers," was named the Illinois Army National Guard's Recruiting and Retention Battalion "Rookie of the Year" at the battalion's annual awards banquet in Springfield on Jan. 31. This prestigious award recognizes the top-performing new recruiter across the state. Ramos works out of the Schaumburg recruiting office and recruits in Buffalo Grove, Elk Grove, Rolling Meadows, Palatine, and Arlington Heights. Ramos recruited 24 Soldiers into the Illinois Army National Guard in fiscal year 2025. Ramos's exceptional performance was a key factor in the "Honeybadgers'" remarkable success this year. The company was named the Recruiting and Retention Battalion's Company of the Year for the third consecutive year, a testament to the dedication and high standards of its Soldiers. The "Honeybadgers" dominated the awards ceremony, with members of the unit also receiving the following accolades:
This clean sweep of the major awards highlights the exceptional leadership and teamwork within H Company. Staff Sergeant Ramos's achievement as "Rookie of the Year" in such a high-performing unit is a significant accomplishment and marks him as a rising star within the Illinois Army National Guard's recruiting force. About the Illinois Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion: The Illinois Army National Guard Recruiting and Retention Battalion is tasked with enlisting new soldiers and retaining current members to ensure the readiness of the Illinois Army National Guard. The battalion plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength of the force, enabling it to meet both state and federal missions.