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Mrs. Martratt recognized for meritorious service

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Mike Andriacco
  • 36th Wing Public Affairs
ANDERSEN AIR FORCE BASE, Guam --  Mrs. Joyce Martratt, the 36th Wing Commander's administrative assistant, was awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service medal in a local ceremony May 7.

The Air Force Meritorious Civilian Service medal is the second highest award for civilian employees of the Department of Defense, only surpassed by the Air Force Distinguished Civilian Service Award.

Mrs. Martratt has worked as a civilian employee for more than 44 years, beginning as a clerk-typist in 1966. She's been promoted numerous times since then and has worked for more than 20 general officers during her career.

Her skills, knowledge and abilities have led to her being hand-selected to serve as a command administrative assistant for several squadron, group, wing headquarters and numbered Air Force headquarters since 1969.

Mrs. Martratt has led a storied life, filled with challenges, losses and successes. Through it all she credits her faith with helping her make the best of things. About her time in the Mongmong concentration camp during World War II, she says the one thing that stood out was the faith of the people, their constant prayers, and their faith in God.

"I always talk to my God," she said, "And I say, 'God please help me out every day so that whatever I do, it's in your name.'"

In addition to her participation in her church, Mrs. Martratt's community activism such as Asian Pacific Planning Committee member, Andersen Civilian Advisory Board (since 1975), 2009 Grand Marshall for San Isidro Festival, and more, has made her a pillar of the community and respected by all.

Professionally, Mrs. Martratt has actively participated in many high-visibility distinguished visits, including former Philippines President Ferdinand Marcos as he traveled to the U.S. for asylum, then Vice President of the United States George H.W. Bush, and Queen Elizabeth and Prince Phillip of England.

These are not, by any means, the limit to her accomplishments and professional experiences, as the administrative assistant to the 36th Wing Commander, Mrs. Martratt supports the wing mission in a very direct way.

"Throughout her time in civil service, Joyce has been a major influence on the mission and Andersen's relationship with the community," said Brig. Gen. Philip Ruhlman, 36th Wing Commander. "Her key role in supporting the commander's office was as essential during my tenure here as it was for every single one of the generals and leaders that have come before me."

Mrs. Martratt was also recognized for her contributions by several community organizations and was presented with a variety of plaques, pins and mementos.

While Mrs. Martratt's recognition can be considered one of the high-points to her career, she has no intentions of slowing down and plans to continue to serve for as long as she is able, and can likely look forward to many more awards in the future.