CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - A retirement ceremony for Sgt. Maj. James F. Cully, the 1st Marine Regiment Sergeant Major, was held at the 53 area landing zone aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California, on Oct. 3, 2014.
During the ceremony Cully was also awarded the Legion of Merit for his exceptionally meritorious conduct in his performance of his duties with 1st Marine Regiment.
Under his guidance the Marines of 1st Marine Regiment were successful through multiple deployments and training exercises.
Col. Peter Baumgarten, the former commanding officer for 1st Marine Regiment from El Paso, Texas, spoke during the ceremony.
“I came to know Sgt. Maj. Cully when I took command of 1st Marine Regiment,” said Baumgarten. “Together we were the command element of 1st Marine Regiment and his service as my primary adviser was absolutely fantastic.”
Since the day in April 1985 when he completed recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California, Cully has filled many billets throughout his time in the Marine Corps.
“Sergeant Major Cully is a man of many talents,” said Baumgarten. “He has worked across the [Marine Air Ground Task Force] throughout his 30 years of service.”
Cully started his career as a 0351 Dragon gunner [anti-tank assaultman] and went on to fill billets such as Marine security guard and recruiter throughout his career.
“My Parents are the reason I’m here,” said Cully. “They put me on the right track and have supported me over the last 30 years to help me be successful in my career.”
Throughout Cully’s speech he gave thanks to all his friends, family, and fellow Marines for the support they have provided him with.
“I would never have gotten here without all the help from my leaders and their mentoring and guidance,” said Cully. “When I came in I never knew I’d be serving 30 years but I’ve had a lot of fun along the way.”
With the end of his Marine Corps career in sight, Cully will begin a new path in the state of Texas with his family by his side.
Date Taken: | 10.03.2014 |
Date Posted: | 10.06.2014 13:04 |
Story ID: | 144385 |
Location: | CAMP PENDLETON, CALIFORNIA, US |
Web Views: | 622 |
Downloads: | 0 |
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