Photo By Lance Cpl. Jerrick J. Griffin | Sgt. Maj. Robert Ledferd speaks to the Marines and sailors of Combat Logistics...... read more read more
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CAMP PENDLETON - Sgt. Maj. Brenda L. Jackson passed the sword of office to Sgt. Maj. Robert A. Ledferd during the Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, Post and Relief ceremony June 20.
The 1st Marine Division Band opened the ceremony by playing a few musical selections, and Jackson, who began her Marine Corps career as a saxophonist, joined in to play a few tunes. The ceremony also included the passing of the sword of office and remarks from the incoming and outgoing sergeants major.
Jackson, from Canandaigua, N.Y., stands relived after serving as the regimental sergeant major for the past two years. She offered Ledferd some kind words during her remarks.
“Sgt. Maj. Ledferd, you are a fantastic leader,” said Jackson. “I know you will take the unit to greater levels: Enjoy the Marines… they will definitely give you 110 percent.”
Jackson is one of only two sergeants major from the band community, and in 1994, she became the first female Marine to attend and graduate from Drill Instructor School at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego.
“This Marine, who started her career in the band, has made our Corps a better place because of her service and her dedication to trailblazing new paths for our younger Marines,” said Col. James W. Clark, commanding officer of CLR-17.
Prior to taking over as sergeant major of CLR-17, Ledferd was the director for the Staff Non-Commissioned Officer Academy here on Camp Pendleton.
“I know I’m inheriting a great unit with the foundation that has been laid by Col. Nickle and Sgt. Maj. Jackson,” said Ledferd, from Springfield, Ill. “I will do my best to do right by the command and the individual Marine.”
Ledferd also had a few words for the Marine and sailors of the regiment.
“To the Marines of CLR-17, you are phenomenal,” said Ledferd. “I have only been on deck for a short period of time, and I’m impressed 100 percent.”
At the end of the ceremony, Jackson’s husband of 15 years, retired Sgt. Maj. Brian Jackson, from Gary, Ind., surprised his wife by contacting the mayor of her hometown, who agreed to designate June 20 as Sgt. Major Brenda Lee Jackson Day in Canandaigua, N.Y.
Before she left, an emotional Jackson recognized the Marines and sailors for their hard work during her tour.
“You have accomplished a lot during my two years as sergeant major,” said Jackson. “I’m very proud of you. It is your work and selfless dedication to the mission that makes CLR-17 stand out and shine. Thank you for a job well done.”
| Date Taken: | 06.20.2011 |
| Date Posted: | 06.22.2011 14:24 |
| Story ID: | 72550 |
| Location: | CAMP PENDLETON, CALIFORNIA, US |
| Web Views: | 565 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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