Engineman First Class (EN1) Samantha Hartwell grew up in a small farming community in western New York called Varysburg. EN1 Hartwell found that having a smaller farm community developed her values with work ethic, close bonds with family, and a strong belief in service. Hartwell joined the Navy in 2007 to take after her family– specifically, her grandmother. “I joined the Navy to serve my country and to follow in my grandmother’s footsteps.” Her Grandmother was a Women’s Reserve (WAVES ) nurse during WWII.

In addition to honoring her family and serving her county, Hartwell also joined the Navy because of her desire to see the world. After bootcamp, she was on active duty from 2007 to 2011. Her first command was on USS Whidbey Island (LSD-41) out of Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story, VA. Her second duty station was at Strike Fighter Squadron VFA 106, located at Naval Air Station Oceana, VA.

Hartwell cherishes her many fond memories from her travels with the Navy. “Arriving in Seychelles was a breathtaking experience; I had never seen water so stunning before. And navigating the Suez Canal? That was simply incredible!” She spent over three wonderful years living in Guam, where she found the island and its people to be extraordinary. “It will always hold a special place in my heart.”

For the past five years in the reserves, Hartwell served with LCS Squadron Two, which has since transitioned to Commander Naval Surface Group Southeast DET B (CNSG SE DET B). In her role, she functions as a Career Counselor, Medical Petty Officer, and Leading Petty Officer (LPO) of the Admin Division. Hartwell explains that her primary responsibilities include guiding Sailors in their careers and leading her division in meeting mission requirements. As LPO, she plays a crucial role in maintaining operational readiness, ensuring her team is mission-ready and supporting her upper chain of command with essential administrative tasks.

Not surprisingly, Hartwell was recently awarded Sailor of the Quarter for Q3 this year. Hartwell’s most significant takeaway from receiving the award was that her work has been “positively impacting individual Sailors and the unit at large, which makes the efforts feel so much more fulfilling.”

Hartwell has actively pursued her education and career beyond her Navy service. She recently earned an Associate Degree in General Studies and has taken on the role of a substitute teacher for elementary and middle schools. “My motivation to excel in both my civilian and naval careers comes from my family and the Sailors I serve with,” she says. Inspired by her grandmother, she aims to be a guiding light for her family. Her passion for helping Sailors succeed led her to volunteer as her unit’s Career Counselor and take on an active mentoring role. “Throughout my career, I’ve been fortunate to have several mentors, both active and retired.” Her profound appreciation for the guidance she received drives her commitment to paying that mentorship forward.

When asked what she enjoys most about the Navy, she exclaimed, “The camaraderie and helping others—it brings me joy to see them succeed.” EN1 Hartwell is driven, compassionate to her fellow Sailors, and goal oriented. She will continue to make strides in increasing mentorship and career development opportunities within her unit and further developing her career. “My future goals are to continue to help Sailors and be selected for Chief Petty Officer. I plan to work hard, study, and continue learning daily to better myself and those around me.”