Submarine Psychologist Clinches Coveted Arthur W. Melton Early Achievement Award

Commander Giangrande of the Submarine Readiness Squadron (SRS) 32 has been honored with the 12th annual Arthur W. Melton Early Achievement Award. This prestigious accolade recognizes early career achievements in military psychology and was awarded from a competitive field of 1,200 military mental health professionals.

“Receiving this award exemplifies the work I have done throughout my career in the Navy,” remarked Giangrande. “Much of the work I do as a psychologist focuses on how I can empower others to live a more fulfilling life and overcome personal and occupational challenges.”

The American Psychological Association (APA) Division 19, dedicated to Military Psychology, grants this award to individuals who have made notable contributions in the field within five to ten years of their entry. The award citation highlights the recipient’s role in advancing military psychology, improving its effectiveness, and serving the welfare of military personnel.

“This award is a reminder that I am making an impact on the military psychology community, and that the sacrifices I have made along the way are appreciated and valued,” Giangrande added.

Arthur W. Melton, the award’s namesake, was a groundbreaking Air Force psychologist during World War II. His legacy continues to influence military psychology today. Dr. William Brim, President of APA Division 19 Society for Military Psychology, presented the award to Commander Giangrande during the ceremony.

Originating from Islip, New York, Giangrande graduated in 2019 from the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic Medicine. Encouraged by her training director, she joined the Navy in 2018 to pursue a career that matched her values and offered opportunities for significant impact.

“I expressed that I was interested in a career that challenged me, aligned with my values, and would increase opportunities for making a national and global impact,” Giangrande explained. “During my fourth year of the doctoral program, I obtained a recruiter, applied for Navy internship sites, and was matched with a Navy Psychology internship via the Association of Psychology Postdoctoral and Internship Centers (APPIC).”

Giangrande will continue her service within the U.S. Navy Submarine Force as she transitions to the Naval Submarine School next year, also in Groton.

SRS 32 provides essential services to submariners stationed in Groton and Portsmouth. Their mission centralizes support functions and resources across 19 submarines, improving operational readiness and efficiency. The clinic offers expertise in administration, medical care, legal advice, chaplain services, supply, combat systems, engineering, communications, and operations.

Story originally posted on DVIDS: Submarine psychologist awarded prestigious Arthur W. Melton Early Achievement Award