By LCDR Brittany Keener
Each year, the Aurora Borealis Branch of the COA honors a senior and junior officer to recognize their efforts toward leadership, Officership, and volunteerism. On December 30, 2015, CDR Anne Marie Bott and LT Jessica Thompson were recognized as the Senior and Junior Officer of the Branch, respectively, by Aurora Borealis branch President, LCDR Brittany Keener. CDR Bott has served three terms as treasurer for the branch and leads the PHS Athletics and Publications Committees. In addition, CDR Bott organized a bone marrow transplant drive to increase the Alaska Native and American Indian donor pool. LT Thompson is a leader for the Readiness Advocacy Team, which plans, organizes and leads fitness events to promote basic readiness and a healthier lifestyle. She is also a local co-lead for Everybody Walk!, the Surgeon General’s Walking Initiative. Both CDR Bott and LT Thompson regularly volunteer for Special Olympics Alaska, the Healthy Alaska Native Foundation’s Raven’s Ball, and have represented the Aurora Borealis branch at the USPHS Scientific and Training Symposium. They actively promote PHS and fitness while leading and participating in PHS Athletics events. CDR Anne Marie Bott and
LT Jessica Thompson each exemplify the values of leadership, Officership, and volunteerism, and are proudly recognized for going above and beyond their duties for the branch and their fellow officers!
Photo caption:
LCDR Brittany Keener (center) awarding CDR Anne Marie Bott (left) and LT Jessica Thompson (right) with Senior and Junior Branch Awards, respectfully.