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    Commandant shares words of wisdom with NCOs

    Commandant shares words of wisdom with NCOs

    Photo By Cpl. Unique B. Roberts | Gen. James F. Amos, commandant of the Marine Corps, addresses noncommisioned officers...... read more read more

    MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT , NORTH CAROLINA, UNITED STATES

    09.16.2013

    Story by Pfc. Unique B. Roberts 

    II Marine Expeditionary Force   

    CHERRY POINT, N.C. - The commandant and sergeant major of the Marine Corps addressed noncommissioned officers during town hall meetings at Marine Transport Squadron 1’s hangar and the air station theater Monday.

    Junior Marines make up approximately 84 percent of the Marine Corps, and according to Gen. James F. Amos, they are the Corps’ “keepers.”

    Amos said he felt it was important to address corporals and sergeants because they lead, care for and inspire junior Marines.

    “NCOs are the backbone of the Marine Corps,” said Amos.

    During the town hall meeting, Amos covered multiple points including promotions and responsibility.

    The number of Marines in the Marine Corps is steadily decreasing, he said. The commandant urged NCOs to complete MCIs and work harder to become experts in every aspect of their career to be as competitive as possible when it comes time for promotion.

    Reinforcing the commandant’s viewpoint, Sgt. Maj. Micheal P. Barrett assured the Marines that the Corps will continue to maintain the highest standards despite diminishing numbers and budget cuts.

    “That means Marines will have to step up and work harder to advance in rank,” said Barrett.

    During his address, Amos stressed the importance of motivation. He painted a vivid picture describing what he felt as he watched new Marines receive their eagle, globe and anchor emblems after conquering the crucible. Amos stated how crucial it is for Marines to stay focused and propel their careers in the right direction.

    “The Marine Corps is an evolving organization,” said Amos.

    Amos said he intends to continuously shape the Marine Corps into a meaner, tougher and stronger entity.

    “We fight so that our family members don’t have to; we endure harsh conditions so the ones we cherish can sleep well at night,” said Amos.

    “In today’s society we respond to today’s crisis with today’s ready Marines,” said Amos. “With that comes responsibility and determination.”

    Amos also stressed the need for continuous self evaluation and improvement, and laid out his priorities for Marines.

    “Things we have to get back to are leading Marines and Marine Corps warfighting – sustaining the force,” said Amos.
    NCOs heard the messages carried here personally by the commandant and sergeant major of the Marine Corps loud and clear.

    “The town hall meeting was motivating,” said Cpl. Victor M. Jemester, an administrative specialist with the Installation Personnel Administration Center. “It shows that he thinks about us, and that he actually cares about what happens to us. I’ve been on station for three years, and these meetings inspire us to do better,” said Jemester.

    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 09.16.2013
    Date Posted: 09.19.2013 08:40
    Story ID: 113894
    Location: MARINE CORPS AIR STATION CHERRY POINT , NORTH CAROLINA, US

    Web Views: 141
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN