MILLINGTON, Tenn. - Meg Edward, a native of Medford, New Jersey, who supports the U.S. Navy as a government employee, was selected as Newport Civilian of the Quarter for the first quarter of 2026 at Navy Medicine Readiness and Training Command (NMRTC) New England in Newport, Rhode Island.
Edward is a 1986 graduate of Holy Cross High School in Delran, New Jersey. Additionally, Edward earned a bachelor’s degree in nursing from Salve Regina University in Newport, Rhode Island, in 1990.
Edward began a career in government service seven years ago. Today, Edward is a civilian occupational health nurse supporting NMRTC New England.
“I have no experience in the military, but I did, however, have 16 years of Catholic school education,” Edward said. “This foundation provided me with discipline, focus and respect that I believe have helped me throughout my life. The combination of education and upbringing helped to lay the groundwork for a long-lasting and rewarding nursing career.”
The skills and values needed to succeed in the medical field are similar to those found in Medford.
“Growing up, the jobs I held were always service-focused: lifeguard, waitress, student nurse extern,” Edward said. “Caring and nurturing came naturally, as my mom was a nurse and displayed these character traits. Both of my parents were truly dedicated to being involved and contributing members of the community. They taught my five siblings and me the importance of this and emphasized it in both our personal and work lives.”
According to Navy officials, NMRTC’s mission is to prepare service members to deploy in support of operational forces, deliver high-quality healthcare services and shape the future of military medicine through education, training and research.
Navy Medicine – represented by more than 44,000 highly-trained military and civilian health care professionals – provides enduring expeditionary medical support to the warfighter on, below, and above the sea, and ashore.
This year, the Navy is commemorating its contribution to the nation’s defense as the United States celebrates 250 years of independence.
According to Navy officials, for more than 250 years, the Navy has sailed the globe defending freedom and protecting prosperity.
With 90% of global commerce traveling by sea and access to the internet relying on the security of undersea fiber optic cables, Navy officials continue to emphasize that the prosperity of the United States is directly linked to recruiting and retaining talented people from across the rich fabric of America.
Edward said occupational health plays an integral role in mission safety and success.
“Many people don’t understand the role of occupational health,” Edward said. “Occupational health plays an integral part in contributing to the mission, ensuring members are medically qualified and safe to perform their job duties. Our department is in a unique position to support and provide care. Another critical element of occupational health is to visit work sites to learn and become familiar with specific hazards and risks the workers may encounter. I am constantly growing and learning about aspects and environments about which I sometimes have never even thought!
“As an occupational health nurse, I am honored to care for active duty service members, civilians and contractors.”
Edward can take pride in serving America alongside the Navy.
“I love meeting people from all over the world and feel privileged to serve in the capacity that I do,” Edward added.
Edward is grateful to others for supporting a career in government and health services.
“My parents taught me a strong work ethic and the importance of treating everyone respectfully,” Edward said. “Every person, whatever their role, has value and brings something to the team.”
Edward can take pride in serving America alongside the Navy.
“I love meeting people from all over the world and feel privileged to serve in the capacity that I do,” Edward added.
Edward is grateful to others for supporting a career in government and health services.
“My parents taught me a strong work ethic and the importance of treating everyone respectfully,” Edward said. “Every person, whatever their role, has value and brings something to the team.”