Individual Category Recipient of 2009 Leadership Award
Colonel Joan M. Gouge
Iowa Army National Guard
Johnston
Nominated by SFC Earl W. Gerdeman
Colonel Joan Gouge has distinguished herself with over 24 years of service to the Iowa Army National Guard (IARNG). Serving in roles of Nurse Corps Officer including M-day positions and Civilian Technician culminating in the position of State Chief Nurse.
As a Nurse Corps Officer, she served as a Medical/Surgical nurse, but in keeping with the changing needs of the National Guard, she was promoted and developed her managerial and leadership skills leading to assignments of Executive Officer for DET 5 HQ STARC, State Chief Nurse, and Deputy Commander of Administration at the Iowa Medical Command.
Greatest achievements were noted during her service as the Deputy State Surgeon. She was the first office in the state to serve in this position, and set the groundwork for what has become an integral part of medical readiness. She personally developed and implemented the first medical/dental readiness program and policies for the soldier readiness process. Her hard work and keen foresight set the standard for the program still in use today. In addition, she developed and implemented the State's first pantographic dental imaging program and medical hold/case management system. She was also responsible for development of the Assistant Deputy Surgeon position. Her successful work was recognized by her appointment as Region 7 Deputy State Surgeon representative to National Guard Bureau.
She has been an exceptional mentor to numerous Nurse Corps and female officers in the IARNG. Junior officer development and personally responsible for the career development of multiple officers as part of her job description. Her dedication has resulted in the development of many Officers that have given dedicated service to the State.
COL Gouge's selfless service, dedication, leadership, and professionalism as a nursing professional and military officer reflects great honor upon herself and the National Guard.