The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps (SgtMajMC) is the senior enlisted advisor to the Commandant of the Marine Corps and the highest-ranking enlisted Marine in the United States Marine Corps. This prestigious position is held by a single individual at any given time, and the role is to advise the Commandant on matters related to enlisted personnel, morale, and welfare. The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is also a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff's Senior Enlisted Advisory Committee, providing guidance on enlisted issues across all branches of the US military.
History and Responsibilities
The position of Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps was established in 1957, with the first holder being Sergeant Major Wilbur Bestwick. Since then, there have been 19 Sergeant Majors of the Marine Corps, each serving a term of approximately two to four years. The responsibilities of the SgtMajMC include advising the Commandant on enlisted personnel policies, promoting morale and esprit de corps within the Marine Corps, and representing the Marine Corps at official events and ceremonies. The Sergeant Major also plays a key role in the development of enlisted leadership and professional development programs.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is rigorous and competitive. Candidates must be master sergeants or first sergeants with a minimum of 20 years of service, and they must have completed the First Sergeant Course and the Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education Course. The selection board considers factors such as the candidate’s leadership experience, professional development, and performance evaluations. The board’s recommendations are then forwarded to the Commandant, who makes the final selection.
| Category | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Rank | Master Sergeant or First Sergeant |
| Service Time | Minimum 20 years |
| Education | First Sergeant Course and Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education Course |
Notable Sergeant Majors of the Marine Corps
Several Sergeant Majors of the Marine Corps have made significant contributions to the Marine Corps and the US military. One notable example is Sergeant Major Alford McMichael, who served as the 9th SgtMajMC from 1973 to 1975. During his tenure, McMichael played a key role in the development of the Marine Corps’ enlisted leadership program and was a strong advocate for enlisted personnel issues. Another notable example is Sergeant Major Micheal Barrett, who served as the 17th SgtMajMC from 2011 to 2015. Barrett was a strong proponent of enlisted professional development and was instrumental in the development of the Marine Corps’ enlisted education program.
Leadership and Legacy
The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is a symbol of excellence and leadership within the Marine Corps. As the senior enlisted advisor to the Commandant, the SgtMajMC sets the standard for enlisted personnel and provides guidance and mentorship to junior Marines. The legacy of the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is one of dedication, hard work, and commitment to the values and traditions of the Marine Corps. The position is a testament to the importance of enlisted leadership and the critical role that senior enlisted personnel play in shaping the future of the Marine Corps.
The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is also responsible for promoting the history and heritage of the Marine Corps. This includes preserving the traditions and customs of the Corps, as well as promoting the values of honor, courage, and commitment. The SgtMajMC also plays a key role in the development of the Marine Corps' museums and historical programs, ensuring that the history and legacy of the Corps are preserved for future generations.
- Promoting the history and heritage of the Marine Corps
- Preserving the traditions and customs of the Corps
- Developing the Marine Corps' museums and historical programs
What is the role of the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps?
+The Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is the senior enlisted advisor to the Commandant of the Marine Corps and the highest-ranking enlisted Marine in the United States Marine Corps. The SgtMajMC advises the Commandant on matters related to enlisted personnel, morale, and welfare, and represents the Marine Corps at official events and ceremonies.
How is the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps selected?
+The selection process for the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps is rigorous and competitive. Candidates must be master sergeants or first sergeants with a minimum of 20 years of service, and they must have completed the First Sergeant Course and the Senior Enlisted Joint Professional Military Education Course. The selection board considers factors such as the candidate’s leadership experience, professional development, and performance evaluations.
