MILLINGTON, Tenn. (Mar. 20, 2023) – A native of Chesapeake, Virginia, was recently named Naval Medical Readiness Logistics Command’s (NMRLC) Senior Civilian of the Year.
Matt Gerten, right, served the Navy for 26 years and joined the NMRLC team as a civilian two years ago.
“I am honored to keep serving this great nation and providing support to the warfighters,” said Gerten. “I joined the Navy and followed in my father’s path.”
Skills and values learned in the Navy are similar to those found in Chesapeake.
“I started working at 14 years-old and learned that if you put in the work and support where needed, that your boss’s will recognize you and provide opportunities to improve yourself and the command,” said Gerten. “My father used to say actions speak louder than words, and that has been the drive and motto to live by.”
Today, Gerten enjoys the opportunity to continue his service.
“The best thing about this job, is the ability to continue to get to work with the military members and the camaraderie that our department and command has,” said Gerten. “I’m proud to continue my service and provide support to the end users of our equipment to support and save lives.”
NMRLC is responsible for global expeditionary medical logistics resources and supporting Combatant Commands’ wartime contingency requirements.
With 90 percent 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 trained sailors and a strong Navy.
“Our mission remains timeless – to provide our fellow citizens with nothing less than the very best Navy: fully combat ready at all times, focused on warfighting excellence, and committed to superior leadership at every single level,” said Adm. Mike Gilday, Chief of Naval Operations. “This is our calling. And I cannot imagine a calling more worthy.”
As a member of the Navy, Gerten is part of a world-class organization focused on maintaining maritime dominance, strengthening partnerships, increasing competitive warfighting capabilities and sustaining combat-ready forces in support of the National Defense Strategy.
“Our command, NMRLC, may not seem at the tip of the spear but it is in my opinion,” said Gerten. “The expeditionary medical systems we build and deploy will save lives.”
Gerten has many opportunities to achieve accomplishments during military and civil service.
“I am most proud of the teams I have built throughout my career,” said Gerten. “These teams of military and civilians could accomplish any mission or task asked of them.”
As Gerten and other sailors continue to train and perform missions, they take pride in serving their country in the United States Navy.
“I love supporting my country and our Navy,” added Gerten. “I am grateful to keep serving this great nation. It gives me a daily sense of accomplishment.”
By Mass Communication Specialist 1st Class Bryan Niegel, Navy Office of Community Outreach