LTCOL Joan Hartnett, former commander 74th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron, has passed on.

 Joan T. Hartnett died on Thursday May 29th at the Sunrise of Lynnfield following a lengthy illness. She'd recently celebrated her 93rd birthday. 

Joan was born in Revere on May 13, 1932, to her parents John and Mary Hartnett. She, along with her sister Mary, were raised and educated in Revere. She was an alumna of Revere High School, Class of 1950. Joan then pursued her passion of becoming a nurse by enrolling in the Cheslea Memorial Hospital Nursing School. 

After she completed her studies, she began her career at Albert Einstein Medical Center. From there, she went on to work for Malden Hospital and Boston City Hospital. In the meantime, she enlisted in the United States Air Force Reserves in 1967 and became a Chief Flight Nurse. Her career in the military spanned 25 years. During her time in the Air Force, Joan traveled all over the country and the world.

She was honorably discharged and retired as Lieutenant Colonel in 1992. Joan returned home too and continued her work as a nurse in Boston City Hospital. Joan loved being a nurse and did her job with the fullest measure of excellence. 

She was also very devoted to her family, especially her sister Mary. In later years, Joan happily shared her time in Revere, Maine and Florida. Joan was a very humble woman, who was devoted to her country, family and her passion of being a nurse.

She is the beloved daughter of the late John T. Hartnett and Mary I. (Turner) Hartnett. The loving sister of the late Mary Cassani and her husband John A. Cassani. Also lovingly survived by many cousins, both living and deceased. In lieu of flowers donations may be made in Joan’s memory to the Mass General Brigham / Mass General development Office, 

As one of her Medical Service Corps officers, I count it as wonderful memories the many times Joanie gave out with a frightening "CARTER COOL YOUR JETS!" admonition.