Laura Marlatt’s story begins with her family’s journey to the United States. “My parents were immigrants from a dusty small town in Mexico,” she shared. “I always grew up with a huge sense of pride for our country and deep respect for our military.”
A young adult searching for direction, Laura marched into the local recruiters office and announced she wanted to be a Marine – something she quickly learned was rare.
During her time in the service, Laura was a 3531 Motor Transport Operator (“Motor T”). She drove large military vehicles and transported personnel and equipment. Laura will be the first to discount her service because she was never deployed – we feel otherwise. Laura was stationed in Quantico, Virginia. There, she supported the field combat training of newly commissioned Marine lieutenants who were preparing to become infantry officers. Laura’s role took her to Twentynine Palms, California, every few months for field exercises. There she had the unique opportunity to operate special military vehicles and fire advanced weapons systems, including aritllery. Laura humbly brags that she was an expert rifleman and pistol shooter.
“Even though I never deployed overseas,” shares Laura, “I probably shot more and drove more special trucks than the average Motor T Marine. It was a lot of fun.”
Throughout her military career, Laura served in several roles or “billets”. They included Training NCO (Non-Commissioned Officer) and Dispatching NCO, helping manage logistics and training operations. She also achieved a green belt in the Marine Corps Martial Arts Program (MCMAP).
Laura’s brother Gabe pinned her to Non-Commissioned Offier (NCO)
“I loved challenging my sergeants in the pit,” Laura laughs, referring to the combat training area, “even thought they’d tap me out in two seconds.” Towards the end of her service, Laura found joy in driving buses for officers, even making a memorable trip to Washington, D.C.
“I would say the military taught me the importance of discipline and loyalty”, she explained. “Having your brothers back even if they’re 100lbs heavier than you, knowing that no matter what you have to give all your energy and effort into a brotherhood. Knowing that we could eventually get stationed somewhere else and that in a moments notice we all have to be 100% ready and willing to endure whatever together. That together-ness is something that has never left me.”
After the Marines, Laura sought jobs where she could serve others in a team environment. She joined the Alliance Bank Deposit Operations team in 2022. “I really enjoy the capability of learning and growing here at Alliance. Prior to Alliance, I had no banking experience or education but thanks to the people who have invested their time into me, I feel confident and secure in my role. That in turn has allowed me to serve my newer teammates, and I love that. I’m so grateful.”
We are incredibly grateful to Laura – and all of our Veterans – for their courage and willingness to serve our Country. Today, we honor them for their courageous service.
