Director – Ardis L. Harden 

Ardis L. Harden currently serves as the Deputy Director of Garrison Operations for the Texas Military Department.  A retired Command Sergeant Major, he completed a distinguished 28-year career with the Texas Army National Guard in 2016, serving primarily in the Military Intelligence Branch.

          Throughout his military service, Ardis held numerous key leadership roles, including Command Sergeant Major of the 136th Military Police Battalion, J2 Sergeant Major, Special Security Officer/SCIF Manager, and Master Recruiter for the Texas Army National Guard.

          In addition to his military accomplishments, Ardis brings a strong background in nonprofit leadership. He has served two terms on the board of the National Guard Association of Texas (NGAT) and has been an active volunteer in youth organizations and with Meals on Wheels.

          A passionate advocate for service members and military families, Ardis is also a founding member of the Cup and Flower Foundation, which supports community and veteran initiatives.

          He resides in Leander, Texas, with his wife, Melissa. Ardis is a proud father of three adult children and a devoted “Pop Pop” to three grandchildren.