New College Alumna Erica Jacobik Earns Junior Officer of Quarter Award from U.S. Navy

Region Legal Service Office Japan Judge Advocate General Lt. Erica Jacobik, a New College of Florida alumna, recently earned the title of RLSO Junior Officer of the Quarter and was nominated for Junior Officer of the Year by the United States Navy. Jacobik attended New College of Florida from 1996-98 and is currently the Staff Judge Advocate for Naval Air Facility Atsugi, Japan.

Jacobik was selected as the JOQ out of eight officers throughout the region (which includes Atsugi, Diego Garcia, Guam, Misawa, Okinawa, Sasebo, and Yokosuka) during January – March 2009, namely for the superior knowledge of military justice she displayed during several high-profile cases she headed at NAF Atsugi. The cases ranged from providing counsel concerning an attack on an Atsugi-based sailor to overseeing alcohol-related and drug cases, courts martial, masts and appeal responses, military separations and responding to an Inspector General complaint.

“Lt. Jacobik has established herself as an outstanding Staff Judge Advocate at NAF Atsugi and an invaluable resource to the senior leadership community,” said Capt. Eric Gardner, commanding officer of NAF Atsugi. “Her keen decision-making abilities and effective interpersonal communication skills have proven to be instrumental in succeeding in this highly-visible, independent position.”

Jacobik routinely provides legal training to officers around the region, coordinates and organizes U.S. Embassy immigration visits for sailors and family members, and builds and maintains relationships with local host nation Japanese prosecutors and police officers.

“Her natural leadership ability, strong organizational and sharp analytical skills, and extensive experience coupled with her calm, diplomatic demeanor has made her a highly regarded legal officer – one who is often called upon to provide expert advice and guidance around the region,” said Executive Officer Cmdr. James Selkirk, NAF Atsugi.

Jacobik is the sole legal officer for the NAF Atsugi and is in direct oversight of approximately 10,000 service members, Department of Defense employees, contractors and their family members.