Tennessee National Guard Appoints First Black Female Battalion Commander
In a historic promotion ceremony on August 7th, 2022, the Tennessee Army National Guard appointed Lt. Col. Odessa K. Sam-Kpakra as the commander of the 230th Special Troops Battalion, making her the first African American woman in state history to lead a battalion.
Lt. Col. Sam-Kpakra took command from outgoing commander Lt. Col. Andy Stafford at Smyrna’s Volunteer Training Site. Her promotion symbolizes the Tennessee National Guard’s commitment to diversity and inclusion in its leadership ranks.
New Commander Brings Extensive Military Experience
Lt. Col. Sam-Kpakra enlisted in the National Guard in 1992 and earned her officer’s commission in 1998 through the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater’s ROTC program. She transferred to the Tennessee National Guard in 2012.
Her past duty assignments include a 2013 deployment to Kuwait in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. She has also served as Chief Supply Branch Officer for the National Guard Bureau.
Inspired By Father’s Selfless Service
When asked about her motivation for military service, Lt. Col. Sam-Kpakra credited her late father, who provided community service in their native Sierra Leone.
“Through his service, he found great meaning in life which brought him profound joy,” she said. “He often told my siblings and me to be strong instruments for good in our communities.”
After relocating to America, Lt. Col. Sam-Kpakra committed to excellence in the National Guard. She hopes her groundbreaking promotion will motivate other young leaders from diverse backgrounds to pursue senior leadership positions.
Words of Wisdom for Aspiring Leaders
“Success is when opportunity meets preparation, therefore it’s important to always be prepared,” Lt. Col. Sam-Kpakra said. She advises young officers to have a 5-year plan, take military coursework, and pursue career-broadening assignments.
Outside the National Guard, Lt. Col. Sam-Kpakra holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees. She lives with her husband and three children.
The Tennessee National Guard’s promoted battalion commander leads 250 citizen-soldiers across various specialties. Her visionary leadership and trailblazing career inspire the next generation to serve.
