This is an installment in a series of articles spotlighting some of the hardworking and dedicated individuals who are making a huge and positive difference at the Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bethesda. There are many components involved in the success of a large organization including individuals who come together to meet organizational needs. These ‘‘Movers and Shakers” have been working within their communities, behind the scenes, to maintain the excellent reputation of NSA Bethesda and all of its tenant commands.
In this week’s Movers and Shakers series, we spotlight the Deputy Chief of Operations for NSA Bethesda, Christine Brown. If you’ve ever had an opportunity to visit her office, where numerous awards for her leadership can be found, it’s quite understandable why she is indeed a mover and shaker.
Brown grew up in various places across the country. Shortly after graduating high school, she joined the U.S. Navy in 1986 under the first pilot program for the Master-At-Arms rating.
After retiring from the Navy in 2008, Brown worked for the National Naval Medical Center as the base security director, overseeing the Pass and ID office, Navy police officers, and personnel designated to assist visitors, patients and staff. To enhance base security, Brown worked to develop security policies, directives and a comprehensive Force Protection Plan to provide a range of training and security for the base.
In addition, she was instrumental in creating videos to inform the public on how be safe on base, the mission of security personnel, as well as providing support for various protective⁄protocol visits and base events. Most notable, the groundbreaking ceremony for the future Walter Reed National Military Medical Center Bethesda, command mass casualty drills and national security exercises.
Earlier this year, Brown was selected as the deputy chief of operations for NSA Bethesda that stood up May 10 to oversee base-wide operations and tenant commands.
Working closely with her director to ensure public safety for patients, staff and guests at the command, she establishes security instructions for the entire base and its tenant.
Brown was most recently lauded for her leadership ability and planning of the dedication ceremony of the National Intrepid Center of Excellence, a high security level event with more than 1,000 in attendance.
Capt. Michael Malanoski, commanding officer of NSA Bethesda, said Brown always remains focused on the mission no matter the circumstances.
‘‘Mrs. Brown never panics,” said Malanoski. ‘‘Her ability to balance security needs with ease in access is a major reason Bethesda feels the way it does.”
Brown, who has a master’s degree with a concentration in criminal justice and is working on her master’s in management, said she could not do her job alone, crediting her staff for ensuring the job is done correctly, quickly and safely.
‘‘The personnel assigned to public safety are unsurpassed in every aspect,” said Brown.
Cmdr. John Lamberton, executive officer of NSA Bethesda, said Brown is definitely a mover and a shaker — she has a polished approach to leadership and the ability to provide operational leadership to the command, adding she draws upon her pre-existing repertoire of skills and talents.
‘‘Her presence on the installation, coupled with her talents of leadership, allow solutions to be devised from above and rolled out through the ranks,” said Lamberton.
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