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Timothy Henderson of Suffolk is set to become the Navy Talent Acquisition Group (NTAG) Richmond’s newest commanding officer on Thursday, Feb. 27, during its change of command ceremony. Formerly the NTAG executive officer, Henderson’s new role will be in charge of NTAG’s recruiting efforts across Virginia.

As a Nansemond River high school graduate, Henderson said he’s excited to recruit out of Nansemond River and have the opportunity to make an impact on people who have walked in his shoes. 

Henderson has spent nearly 20 years in the Navy. After graduating from the United States Naval Academy in 2007 with a Bachelor of Science Degree in political science, he started as a surface warfare officer. During his first sea tour with the USS Gonzalez, he served as an anti-submarine warfare officer. He also served as a fire control operator aboard the USS Nassau. 

It wasn’t until 2012 that Hendersen transitioned into human resources. He then reported to the Naval Postgraduate School in California, where he got his Master’s Degree in management in 2015. 

Before landing in Suffolk, Henderson worked in Navy recruitment in Houston, Texas. He then served as the training officer on the USS Abraham Lincoln in Norfolk and for the Naval Information Forces in Suffolk.

During his service, Henderson has been awarded the Meritorious Service Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.

Henderson said he wanted to work in HR because he enjoys working to make a positive impact in people’s lives.

“I think I’ve always been the type that likes serving people,” he said. “Like working with different programs, doing things I can to help make programs better, whether it’s for individual sailors, for their families, or what have you like, that’s something that I’ve always been passionate about.”

He added that because the Navy has helped him grow and has taught him so much, he wants to be able to share his story and encourage high schoolers to follow that same path.

Senior Chief Tacara Andrews and Chief Kendra Noel have worked closely with Henderson and said they are excited for him to take on this new role.

Andrews said it will be very good for the command and she’s eager for him to get started.

“I think it’s going to be something very good and inspiring for not just myself, but the recruiters, and the sailors across the command,” she said.

Noel agreed, and said Henderson is “one of the best leaders that the Navy can ask for,” and he always “gives to his people” no matter how short on time he is.

In his new role as NTAG Richmond Commanding Officer, Henderson is looking forward to keeping up with monthly and yearly recruiting goals. 

“It’s one of those things too, if we’re out here doing our job and doing it properly and effectively, the goal takes care of itself,” he said. “So that’s really a focus for me, just ensuring that we have all the tools and systems in place to help us do our jobs.”