Lance Cpl. Melody Cheng, legal clerk, Office of the Staff Judge Advocate, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany, was recently selected as the Marine Corps Installations-East, Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, Marine of the Year for 2020.  

“Cheng was selected from a phenomenal group of Marines and her selection as the Marine of the Year is a testament to her hard work and outstanding performance in 2020,” Lt. Col. Christopher M. Hoover, Staff Judge Advocate, MCLB Albany, said.

Hoover also noted during the past year, she was selected as the installation Marine of the Quarter twice, installation Marine of the Year and MCI-East Marine of the Quarter.

Cheng has assisted in the execution of wills after obtaining her certification as a State of Georgia notary. She became a self-sufficient operator in the SJA office, independently notarizing official documents for clients, executing powers of attorney and conducting intake preparations for clients in preparation for attorney visits for legal assistance matters.

“I am truly honored to be recognized as the Marine of the Quarter for the 4^th Quarter and the Marine of the Year,” Cheng, a native of Los Angeles, said. “I arrived at MCLB Albany on April 3^rd, amidst a complete shutdown of the base. Thankfully, I came across some amazing Marines who mentored me and pushed me to continuously seek opportunities to perform at my best.”

“It is important to remember that opportunities are available everywhere, as long as you are willing to look for them. Like my mentors before me, I hope that I am able to inspire and guide my fellow Marines in the same way, and continue to represent MCLB Albany through my achievements,” she added.

Cheng also assists Staff Judge Advocates with investigations, military law matters and drafting endorsements in support for other commands. 

Cheng received a Meritorious Mast for being selected the Gung Ho Marine for the Security Augmentation Force training held in August aboard MCLB Albany. She also volunteers after-hours, including time at the local Marine Corps Recruiting office where she focused on mentoring and developing poolees.

Cheng is currently enrolled in American Military University and is working toward a degree in criminal justice, while also seeking a welding certification from Albany Technical College. She voluntarily serves in mentoring Albany youth as a faculty member for the Albany Young Marine Program.