In addition to being a Certified Medical Interpreter, Petty Officer 2nd Class Maria Alumalopez has committed to serving our nation as a Navy Corpsman in the United States Navy Reserve and is currently assigned to Navy Operational Support Center Everett.

Petty Officer Alumalopez graduated from Santa Mariana de Jesus High School in Cali, Colombia, in 1989 and went on to earn a bachelor’s degree in Physical Therapy at Universidad del Valle Cali-Colombia. Alumalopez began her military service by joining the Navy Reserve in September 2010.

In 2012 Petty Officer Alumalopez deployed for 130 days aboard the Military Sealift Command hospital ship USNS Mercy (T-AH 19). During this deployment she provided humanitarian and civic assistance to people in Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Cambodia. She currently serves as Navy Operational Support Center Everett where she aids mobilization readiness for other members of the Navy Reserve.

The skills, benefits, and pride Alumalopez gains while serving give her the tools to succeed in the multiple ventures she undertakes. “My service in the Navy Reserve has provided me with numerous benefits. Some are tangible benefits like medical insurance and military discounts. In addition, there are educational benefits available through the G.I Bill. However, the most important benefit is the sense of pride in serving my country through this great organization,” said Alumalopez.

Alumalopez believes the Navy Reserve provides opportunities to both continue serving and pursue her desire to help people. “I love the fact that as a Reservist, I can choose not only the best opportunities, but also when and where to go to serve my country,” said Alumalopez. “I chose the Navy Reserve for the opportunity to see the world and help many different people like I did when I went aboard the USNS Mercy during the Pacific Partnership 2012.”

Alumalopez recognizes that the Navy Reserve and her civilian career complement each other. “The Navy taught me skills that enable me to be responsible and independent. My civilian career as a Certified Medical Interpreter, keeps me informed of new medical treatments and technology which compliments my Navy job as a Corpsman.”

Vice Admiral Braun, Chief of the Navy Reserve, is proud to lead such a talented and dedicated group of Sailors. “The commitment of our talented Sailors to the Navy, their shipmates and their community is truly inspirational,” said Braun. “Their continued dedicated service in support of the Navy, Marine Corps and Joint Force lends credence to our motto: ‘Ready Now. Anytime, Anywhere.’”