by Rick Burke, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs
DOBBINS AIR RESERVE BASE, Ga. (Nov.15, 2017) -- A Savannah, Georgia, native, was recently named Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Atlanta’s Full Time Support Blue Jacket of the Year for 2017.
Personnel Specialist 2nd Class Petty Officer Marcelle Roberts, a reserve pay clerk assigned to the reserve services department at NOSC Atlanta, was recognized for her superior performance in supporting records and payroll services for more than 1,200 Selected Reserve Sailors assigned to the center.
Roberts serves as morale, welfare and recreation secretary and Junior Enlisted Association vice president at the reserve center, and is a sexual-assault prevention and response program victim’s advocate.
"Roberts reported to NOSC Atlanta just over a year ago and was determined to earn the Blue Jacket of the Year honor," said her leading petty officer, Personnel Specialist 1st Class Ebony Peele.
“She stepped up right away and took on many responsibilities. She wasn’t afraid to assume leadership roles as a third-class petty officer and always follows through with everything I give her to do, and she has adapted very well to being in charge," Peele added.
Roberts, who joined the Navy in November 2012, is working toward becoming a commissioned officer.
She said the service was always an influence in her life.
“I come from a military family background, and I was involved in Navy JROTC,” Roberts said. “I really liked the structure and discipline. It whipped me into shape and changed me for the better.”
Roberts said her favorite part of being in the Navy is her ability to help people, and she gets a sense of fulfillment when she is able to make someone’s day or tasks easier. She said that enjoying the Navy experience is her key advice for other Sailors.
“Just be yourself, and have fun,” she said. “If you are going to be in the Navy for 20 years, you must enjoy it.”