In mid-December, MATCP contacted Veteran’s Court Coordinator, John Marra, United States Army Veteran, to advise him that he had been selected as the recipient of the MATCP Hero Award. John will be acknowledged and presented with the award at the 23rd Annual MATCP Conference, February 28, 2023 in Grand Rapids, MI.
Veteran’s Treatment Court Supervising Judge Deborah A. Thomas nominated John for the Hero Award. Questions asked on the nomination forms were, ‘whether there was someone on the Specialty Court team that is a standout team player?’ ‘Does this person continually go above and beyond for the program?’ And, ‘Is this person extremely passionate about the program and their participants?’
Without question, John Marra is the ultimate example of one who models these traits.
Based upon the heartfelt submission by Judge Thomas, John Marra was awarded the Hero Award. Some of the sentiment expressed in her nomination included:
“I am nominating John Marra for several reasons. As a United States Army Veteran, who honorably served our country, he embodies the Army creed of "I will always place the mission first; I will never accept defeat; I will never quit; and I will NEVER leave a fallen comrade behind.
What he learned in the Army, has been transferable to his career with the Court and the program.
John makes himself available to the participants, well beyond working hours if it's a matter that needs his attention. Whether it's helping a Veteran in crisis who needs someone to talk to, or a Veteran struggling with homelessness and needs immediate placement.
John has aligned himself with numerous community resources to ensure the participants needs are met.
He works tirelessly with the Defense Counsel and Prosecutor's Office to ensure participants have a vested interest in obtaining some legal benefit upon successful completion of the program. His efforts help restore their dignity and allows them to have a second chance in society.
In addition, what makes John so special is that he too is a combat-Veteran. He has experienced firsthand some of the hardships of trying to adjust to civilian life again. He is able to understand and help identify triggers that the participants may have in their daily lives. He understands how to maneuver through the Veterans Administration healthcare system to ensure participants receive the services they need and to advocate for them.”
Judge Thomas further stated, “For these reasons, I am nominating John for this award. It is not often that you get to work with a real-life hero.”
MATCP will conduct a short video interview with John and Judge Deborah Thomas which will be aired at the MATCP conference in 2023.
John’s commitment and passion for working to help others is a shining example for all to follow. Congratulations, John. Thank you for all that you do.
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