Portrait of Muriel B, Gendarmerie Warrant Officer

What is your background?

Since October 2015, I work at the Operational Centre of Saint-Martin.

I am now 50 year old and have 17 years of service as I started my career at the age limit of recruitment (age 34) after various professional experiences in the private sector.

At the time of my nomination to the Gendarmerie Force, I had a civilian training in advertising and had been working as a press correspondent.

Why did you want to join the Gendarmerie?

I wanted to join the Gendarmerie’s Information and Public Relation Services but after graduating from the NCO school of Montluçon, this project could not be confirmed.

Nonetheless, I pursued my career, which was atypical and rewarding, and after all these years, I have no regrets.

What is your background in the Forces?

After graduating from the school of Montluçon, I served in two brigades: firstly in Beaurepaire in the Department of Isère and later in La Roque d'Antheron in the Bouches du Rhone.

Then I joined the Operations Centre of the Department of Vaucluse.

After receiving my qualification as judicial police officer, I started working as criminal investigation technician in Avignon. Then I was able to live an unforgettable experience during a field operation in Afghanistan.

And you wrote a book about this experience...

Yes, I wrote a novel, which was published, entitled "Fusil d'assaut et mascara" (Assault rifle and mascara).

Then, I had the opportunity to return to the Operations Centre of the Department of Vaucluse.

I was able to get my level 1 military language certificate in English, which was probably one of the critical factors that enabled me to come to Saint-Martin.

And after all these years on the Force, what is your state of mind?

What I like about my work is the absence of routine, the adrenaline, the operational component, assisting and protecting others, the feeling of brotherhood, including during my preparation for combat prior to my departure for Afghanistan, and on the ground in Afghanistan.

I also like the fact that I am always challenging myself, which allows me to evolve and "grow up".

The greatest treasure of my job is this panel of expert jobs offered to anyone who really wants to thrive for it... and we can’t find that anywhere elsewhere.

I would like to add that the life of a female officer is that of a human being, a mere sample of our community, who faces the same social issues as any other woman on a daily basis.

Mother, wife, or even alone... a woman officer tackles all life’s difficulties, sometimes even the most serious ones. She chooses to listen, to help, rescue and protect others.