GALVESTON, Texas (July 1, 2016) - Just a junior in High School, Patricia Brannan saw an opportunity to attend a two-year class in technical school called Vocational Office Education. She studied tirelessly after school every Monday through Friday before beginning her career as an administration support assistant.
With 11 years of service at the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Galveston District, the project she is most proud of was her involvement working with the Emergency Management Office during both Hurricane Rita (2005) and Hurricane Ike (2008).
“I liked the constant activity and excitement of helping the Corps with whatever I was tasked to do,” said Brannan. “I felt like I was part of something bigger than me, that I could help people that were down on their luck and provide a positive outcome, even when they could not see one.”
When Hurricane Ike hit, the Corps played a vital role in the restoration of the Galveston waterways as well as working with organizations such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency to provide support in recovery operations. Employees showed their dedication to environmental stewardship by continuing to work around the clock and deploying to alternative locations through the area of responsibility while trying to manage damages to their homes.
Never one to hesitate when an opportunity to assist other departments that are in need, she is currently on a 120-day special assignment to provide administrative support to the Real Estate Division.
Brennan’s passion and willingness to help others extends beyond the work place.
The most memorable moment at the Corps is when a co-worker and I put a cookbook together to raise money for the breast cancer walk in Galveston,” said Brannan. “We sold t-shirts for four ladies who lost their battles with cancer while working at the Corps.”
Whether it’s on the job, in her community or overseas, Brannan believes that she was put on this earth for a greater purpose – to help people.
A native of Port Arthur, Texas, Brannan received a certificate of appreciation for her effort during Hurricane Ike. In her free time, she enjoys tending to her flower beds, sailing and serving in her church, where she is currently planning her second mission trip to La Romana, Dominican Republic.
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