LtGen Mark A. Brilakis, USMC (Ret)
Lieutenant General Mark Andrew Brilakis is currently assigned as the Deputy Commandant for Manpower and Reserve Affairs.
He graduated from Franklin and Marshall College, Lancaster, Pennsylvania, and was commissioned through the Platoon Leaders Class in May 1981.
Assignments in the Operating Forces include: Battery Officer, 1st Battalion, 10th Marines; Battery Commander, Battalion FDO, and S-3, 5th Battalion, 10th Marines; Naval Gunfire Control Officer and Assistant Supporting Arms Coordinator, Amphibious Group Two; Future Operations and MAGTF Planner, G-3, II MEF;
Executive Officer, 10th Marine Regiment; Commanding Officer 1st Battalion, 10th Marines; Commanding General, 3d Marine Expeditionary Brigade, Deputy Commanding General, III Marine Expeditionary Force, and Commanding General, 3d Marine Division.
Assignments in the Supporting Establishment include: Company Officer and Commanding Officer, Company A, and Course Developer, MCI Company, Marine Barracks, Washington DC; Commanding Officer, Weapons Training Battalion, Training Command; and the Commanding General, Marine Corps Recruiting Command.
Headquarters and Staff assignments include: Status of Forces Officer, Plans, Policies, and Operations Department, HQMC; Head, Program Development Branch, Programs and Resources Department, HQMC; Director, European Liaison Office, Headquarters, U.S. European Command, Deputy J-3, United States European Command, and Assistant Deputy Commandant (Programs), Programs & Resources Department, HQMC.
Military Education: Amphibious Warfare School; Command and Staff College; School of Advanced Warfighting; and CMC Fellow, Center for Strategic and International Studies. Masters in Military Studies, Marine Corps University.
MajGen James Kessler, USMC (Ret)
A native of Mountlake Terrace, Washington, MajGen Kessler was commissioned a 2ndLt from The University of Washington in June 1980. Kessler held various command and staff billets in his early career to include 1st Tank Bn, 1stMarDiv where he deployed in support of Desert Shield/Desert Storm. He was selected to serve as the Aide-de-Camp to the Chairman of the Joints Chiefs of Staff, GEN John M. Shalikashvili. He was later selected to attend the Industrial College of the Armed Forces (now called the Dwight D. Eisenhower School for National Security and Resource Strategy), National Defense University.
MajGen Kessler was selected for, and assumed command of H&S Battalion, 3rd FSSG, serving concurrently as the Camp Commander for Camp Kinser, MCB, Okinawa, Japan. While there, he was deployed to Sri Lanka as the Commanding Officer, Marine Logistics Regiment-2, Combat Logistics Group-Sri Lanka, JTF-536, Operation Unified Assistance in support of the tsunami relief effort. He was promoted to Brigadier General in 2006 and immediately reassigned to assume command of 2nd Marine Logistics Group, II Marine Expeditionary Force.
In Jan 2007, he deployed 2ndMLG forward as part of II MEF (forward) and Multi-National Forces-West in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. 2ndMLG redeployed home in Feb 2008. In April 2008, he relinquished command of 2ndMLG and assumed duties as Director, Manpower Management Division, M&RA. In June 2009, he assumed command of Marine Corps Logistics Command (MCLC), Albany, Georgia. In July 2011, he relinquished command of MCLC and was assigned as the Assistant Deputy Commandant, I&L (Facilities). On 1 October 2011, Marine Corps Installations Command (MCICOM) was established and he became the first Commanding General, MCICOM concurrent with his Assistant Deputy Commandant duties.
MajGen Kessler retired from the Marine Corps in September 2013. Subsequent to his retirement, he was hired by DynCorp International to run the Logistics Civilian Augmentation Program (LOGCAP) in Kandahar, Afghanistan responsible for logistics support to the southern half of the country. After 18 months in-country, he returned home and was hired by Logistics Management Institute (LMI) as the Vice President for Materiel Management Division.
On 1 Oct 2018, he was hired to take over as the President and CEO of the Marine Corps Heritage Foundation with offices at the National Museum of the Marine Corps. He retired from MCHF in December of 2020 and established his own private consulting company, JAK Solutions
MajGen Kessler holds advanced degrees in Military Studies from Marine Corps University, a Master of Science in Systems Management from the University of California, and a Master of Science in National Resource Strategy from the Industrial College of the Armed Forces.
LtGen Charles G. Chiarotti, USMC (Ret)
Lieutenant General Chiarotti was commissioned December 21, 1985. Following graduation, he was assigned to 1st Low Altitude Air Defense Battalion, Marine Air Control Group 18, Okinawa, Japan, serving as the Battalion Motor Transport and S-4 Officer, and 2d Platoon Commander, Bravo Battery. In 1989, he was assigned to H&S Battalion, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, as Operations Officer, Assistant Chief of Staff G-4, and Depot Motor Transport Officer.
In 1992, he graduated from AWS and was assigned in Camp Pendleton, CA for duty with 7th Motor Transport Battalion, 1st Force Service Support Group as Commander of both Alpha and Headquarters and Service Company and as Operations Officer, Combat Service Support Detachment 17. Upon transferring to MSSG15, he was Operations Officer and subsequently deployed with the 15th MEU (SOC) and deployed in support of WestPac in 1995.
In 1996, he was assigned to CSSD 36, Iwakuni, Japan, as Executive Officer and1999 was selected to attend the Naval Command and Staff College, Newport, Rhode Island. Following graduation in 2000 he was assigned to Marine Corps Forces, Europe, Stuttgart, Germany as the Southern Region Logistics Plans Officer and in 2001, he reported for duty as Plans Officer, Plans and Policy Division, Logistics and Security Directorate, Headquarters, U.S. European Command. After September 11 2001, he served as Watch Officer, Crisis Action Team, European Theater Command and Control Center and then as the Branch Chief, Logistics Support Operation, responsible for the planning and execution of logistics support operations in support of OPERATION ENDURING FREEDOM and OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM.
In 2003, LtGen Chiarotti was assigned to 2d Force Service Support Group. He deployed as the Officer-in-Charge, Transport Support Detachment, Special Purpose Marine Air-Ground Task Force, Camp Fox, Kuwait and assumed duties in November as Deputy, Assistant Chief of Staff, G-3. He deployed in 2004 supporting OPERATION SECURE TOMORROW as the Director for Logistics, Combined Joint Task Force, Haiti and upon return in July assumed command of MSSG-22, deploying for Revised Combined Arms Exercises 3 through 14, 2004 to 2005. Lieutenant Colonel Chiarotti deployed MSSG-22 in support of OPERATION IRAQI FREEDOM in support of the 22d MEU (SOC).
He completed a Fellowship at Smeal School of Business, Pennsylvania State University, and then was transferred to Okinawa, Japan in 2007 where he assumed command of Combat Logistics Regiment 3, 3d Marine Logistics Group, III Marine Expeditionary Force (MEF) and then served as the Assistant Chief of Staff, G-3 until his reassignment to US Central Command as Chief of Staff, Logistics Directorate.
In 2011, he was assigned to U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Europe and U.S. Marine Corps Forces, Africa as Deputy Commander and was subsequently assigned as the Deputy, J-5 Plans and Strategy and finally the Director, J-5 Plans, Strategy and Programs for U.S. Africa Command until his assignment to II MEF as Commanding General, 2d Marine Logistics Group from 2014 to 2016.
In 2016, he was assigned duties as Deputy Commander, United States Forces, Japan and was in 2018 was transferred to the Pentagon as Deputy Commandant, Installations and Logistics.
He retired from active duty in September 2021 and is now serving as the President and CEO of the Marine Corps Association.
He holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology and a master’s degree from the Naval War College, Newport, Rhode Island.
His personal decorations include the Navy Superior Service Medal, Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal , the Meritorious Service Medal, the Joint Service Commendation Medal, the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal and was awarded the French National Defense Medal, and the Order of the Rising Sun by the Emperor of Japan.
Mr. Bryan H. Wood, SES (Ret)
Mr. Bryan H. Wood retired from federal service in April 2019 after a distinguished 33 year career serving the Marine Corps and the Navy, the final 14 years as a member of the Senior Executive Service (SES). He retired as the Assistant Deputy Commandant of the Marine Corps for Installations & Logistics where he served as the principal deputy responsible for providing the department’s policy, direction and performance oversight for all installations and logistics functions at USMC bases and stations throughout the world and for the operating forces across the U.S. Marine Corps.
Mr. Wood served as Director, Pacific Division (PP&O), HQMC, responsible for capabilities, force posture, infrastructure and budgeting to support Marine Corps force realignments in the Pacific including the proposed relocation of Marine forces from Okinawa to Guam, Australia and Hawaii. This followed 24 years as an attorney with the Department of the Navy’s Office of the General Counsel (OGC). Mr. Wood’s Initial appointment to the Senior Executive Service was in 2003 as the Deputy Counsel for the Commandant of the U.S. Marine Corps, In 2007, he was the first OGC attorney to deploy to a combat zone in his civilian OGC capacity when he volunteered to serve as the special legal advisor to the Commander, Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) in Djibouti, Africa.
Previously, Mr. Wood served in various legal positions in the field, headquarters and the Pentagon. Mr. Wood received his bachelors degree from Central Connecticut State University and his Juris Doctor from the University of Bridgeport School of Law. He is the recipient of both the Presidential Rank of Distinguished and Meritorious Executive, two Department of the Navy Distinguished Civilian Service Awards (CSA), four DoN Superior CSAs, two DoN Meritorious CSAs and the Joint Service Civilian Commendation medal.
Lieutenant General John Broadmeadow, USMC (Ret)
John Broadmeadow retired from the Marine Corps in October 2020 as a three-star general with nearly 40 years of progressive leadership experience in a variety of positions. He successfully led large, diverse organizations across the globe, in combat, and during periods of significant change. He now leverages extensive experience in executive leadership, logistics / supply chain management, strategic planning, and corporate change management while consulting in the private sector and with various government organizations.
John’s final Marine Corps assignment was as the Director of the Marine Corps Staff in the Pentagon. In addition to leading Headquarters Marine Corps’ response to COVID-19, he integrated the actions of seven three-star Deputy Commandants executing a Marine Corps-wide change management effort to implement the Commandant’s Planning Guidance. This 15-year strategic approach is radically shifting the Marine Corps’ force design, operating concepts, and Service training and education to remain competitive against growing threats from global near peer adversaries.
Previously, in his first three-star job he was assigned as the Deputy Commander of the United States Transportation Command, proudly serving with the more than 140,000 service members and civilians from across all the Armed Services providing globally integrated air, sea, and surface transportation for all personnel and cargo in the U.S. Department of Defense.
General Broadmeadow’s career has been highlighted by several notable accomplishments in expeditionary operations. He led the logistics planning and execution for the Marines’ initial amphibious assault into Afghanistan in 2001 immediately following the attacks of 9/11. He then served multiple tours in both Iraq and Afghanistan, culminating with leading the drawdown and retrograde of equipment from Helmand Province in 2013. He’s experienced with Humanitarian Operations having led
forces in both Somalia for Operation Restore Hope and in Japan following the earthquake, tsunami, and
nuclear plant damage that devastated the coast north of Tokyo. As a General Officer, he commanded a
Marine Expeditionary Brigade and both the Marine Corps Logistics Command and Marine Corps Installations Command each having multi-billion-dollar portfolios making him responsible for significant portions of the Marine Corps’ overall budget.
After his Marine Corps retirement, John was asked to sit as a Panel Member for the Department of the Navy’s Strategic Review of Amphibious Operations and as an Executive Fellow for the Institute forDefense and Business. He is now an Advisory Board Member for Crowley, a Senior Mentor for the Marines Corps’ MAGTF Staff Training Program, and a member of the Norwich University Board of Trustees. Additionally, he provides advice and coaching to organizations and executives in several sectors.
Col Richard Brady, USMC (Ret)
Rich Brady is CEO at the American Society of Military Comptrollers (ASMC). ASMC is a global organization representing more than 14,000 finance and accounting professionals in government and business in the defense sector. ASMC promotes the education, training, and certification of the defense financial management workforce, supports financial transformation in the defense sector, and upholds the highest ethical and professional standards.
Rich joined ASMC after serving 32 years in the U.S. Marine Corps, retiring as a Colonel in 2021. In his time in the Marine Corps, he served in a variety of command and staff positions throughout the United States and overseas, including command of the Marine Corps Financial Management School, command of U.S. Military Entrance Processing Command, a combat tour in Iraq, multiple tours in the Pentagon, and as a defense attaché in the country of Georgia.
He serves as the Chair of the Global Board of Directors of the Institute of Management Accountants, a member of the Advisory Board of the Georgian think tank GEOCASE, and Chair of the Membership Committee of DC Metro Chapter of the Private Directors Association.
Rich holds a Bachelor of Science in International Business from Saint Louis University, a Master of Science in Finance from the Naval Postgraduate School, a Master of Science in Strategic Resource Management from the National Defense University, and completed the Executive Development Program at the Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania. He is a Certified Management Accountant (CMA), Certified Government Financial
Col John M. Reed
He is the CEO & Founder of Reed Charters, LLC providing strategic planning and management services to Federal agencies and in particular to the United States Marine Corps. He leads the company providing consultation analysis to identify organizational goals, objectives, measurable performance metrics and actions for services and production. The company focuses on National Military Strategy planning through force development and campaigning in the US Indo Pacific Command Area of Responsibility. Reed Charters, LLC, is a Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business and a Women Owned Small Business.
He retired as a Colonel from the United States Marine Corps at the end of 2015 after 26 years of service. He served as the 2nd Marine Division Assistant Chief of Staff G-3 and Chief of Staff to the Division Commanding General at Camp Lejeune, North Carolina. As the Commanding Officer, he trained and formed Battalion Landing Team 2/7 for service with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit in the US Indo Pacific Command Area of Responsibility participating in multiple Theater Security Cooperation Exercises and deterrence operations. He served as a lead planner in the establishment of Marine Corps Installations Command and served as the Assistant Chief of Staff G-3/5/7 for operations, future plans, and governmental external affairs for all Marine Corps installations. He has a Masters of Military Studies from Marine Corps Command and Staff College and has personal awards to include the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, and Defense Meritorious Service Medals among other personal awards. He served in multiple combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
SgtMaj Robin Fortner, USMC (Ret)
Sergeant Major Fortner was born in Brooklyn, New York. In August of 1990, she enlisted into the United States Marine Corps and attended recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C., where she was meritoriously promoted to private first class. Private First Class Fortner was transferred to Camp Lejeune, N.C., to attend the Basic Supply School and obtain the MOS 3051. Private First Class Fortner graduated at the top of her class and was meritoriously promoted to the rank of Lance Corporal in January 1991. After completion of school, Lance Corporal Fortner’s first assignment was 2d Supply Battalion, 2d Force Service Support Group, Camp Lejeune, N.C.
During her tour, Lance Corporal Fortner was meritoriously promoted to the rank of corporal in June 1992 and later transferred to Marine Air Traffic Control Squadron 18, 1st Marine Aircraft Wing in Okinawa, Japan. While serving as the Warehouse Chief, Corporal Fortner began cross training into the Supply Administration MOS 3043 and was meritoriously promoted to the rank of Sergeant in February 1994.
In June 1994, Sergeant Fortner was transferred to Marine Air Control Squadron 6, 2d Marine Aircraft Wing, Cherry Point, N.C., serving in various billets to include Supply Chief, Color Sergeant, and Armorer. She was promoted to the rank of staff sergeant in March 1998.
In June 1999, Staff Sergeant Fortner reported to Weapons Field Training Battalion, MCRD Parris Island, S. C. to serve as a Primary Marksmanship Instructor. After graduating number one in PMI School, She trained both male and female recruits in the basic fundamentals of marksmanship before reporting to Drill Instructor School in April 2001.
Staff Sergeant Fortner graduated as Honor Graduate of Drill Instructor School, and assigned to Co. O, 4th Recruit Training Battalion. In September 2002, Staff Sergeant Fortner was promoted to the rank of gunnery sergeant and also served as Company First Sergeant.
In 2004, Gunnery Sergeant Fortner transferred to Okinawa, Japan and was assigned to G-4, 3d Marine Logistics Group as the Supply Chief. Additionally she served as the lead Supply Analyst and Drill Analyst for the Commanding General’s Inspection Program. During this tour, she deployed several times, in addition to serving with Joint Task Force 536 to Colombo, Sri Lanka in January 2005. Gunnery Sergeant Fortner attained the rank of first sergeant and reported to Headquarters Company, III Marine Expeditionary Force on Camp Hansen, Okinawa in May 2006.
First Sergeant Fortner was later transferred to 9th Communication Battalion, I MEF Headquarters Group, Camp Pendleton, CA in July of 2007. She deployed to Camp Fallujah, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2008 and to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom in 2010.
In April 2011 Sergeant Major Fortner assumed the duties as the Battalion Sergeant Major of 4TH RTBN, Parris Island SC. Sergeant Major Fortner took an active role in preserving the legacy of female Marines through two monumental ceremonies celebrating 70 years of Women Marines. In August 2013 Sergeant Major Fortner received orders to 2D Law Enforcement Battalion, Camp Lejeune, N.C. June 2014 Sergeant Major Fortner received orders to the Ground Combat Element Integrated Task Force where she is currently serving.
Sergeant Major Fortner’s personal awards include the Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (3rd Award), Joint Service Achievement Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (3rd Award) and various campaign and unit awards. Sergeant Major Fortner is the recipient of the 2012 Megan McClung Leadership Award. She has a Bachelor of Arts in Intelligence Studies and currently pursuing a Masters of Arts degree in Leadership and Management.
MajGen Thomas Weidley, USMC (Ret)
MajGen (Ret) Weidley was raised in suburban Philadelphia, PA and earned a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mechanical Engineering from Ohio Northern University in 1987. He was commissioned into the United States Marine Corps that same year and was subsequently designated a Naval Aviator and Attack Helicopter pilot in the years that followed. During over 34 years of service, he participated in multiple combat operations in the Middle East, as well as numerous assignments and deployments ashore and afloat within the Indo-Pacific Region. He also earned a Master’s Degree in National Security and Strategic Studies from the Naval War College.
MajGen (Ret) Weidley was privileged to command Marines at multiple echelons during his military career, including the aviation Squadron, Group, and Wing levels. Serving as a General Officer for eight years, he executed a diverse array of assignments from Marine Corps University President to Commanding General of Marine Corps Installations – East, to Assistant Chief of Staff for Strategy, Plans, and Policy for U.S. Forces in Korea. He retired in the fall of 2021.
MajGen (Ret) Weidley joined Capewell, an Aerospace and Defense Company in the Argosy Private Equity portfolio shortly after military service as the Chief Operating Officer. In May of 2023, he was promoted to President and Chief Executive Officer where he remained until Capewell was sold in August of 2024. Following the bifurcation of the business, MajGen (Ret) Weidley remained President and CEO of Aerial Machine & Tool Corp and Rhine Air Inc, where he serves today in Meadows of Dan, VA.
Mr. Robert Hogue, SES (Ret)
Mr. Robert D. Hogue currently is Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary (Manpower & Reserve Affairs) (M&RA) for the Department of the Navy (DON). In this role, he is responsible for the overall supervision of manpower and reserve component affairs of the DON, including the development of programs and policy related to military personnel (active, reserve, retired), their family members and the civilian workforce. He oversees the DON’s Office of Equal Employment Opportunity; Office of Force Resiliency; Naval Education; Manpower, Analytics and Human Resources Systems; and Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Additionally, as the Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary, he also manages the Secretariat HR Office, and DON’s lifecycle management of senior executives across the department, the Assistant Administration Office, Board for Correction of Naval Records, and Council of Review Boards. From 2021 until 2023, he served as Acting Assistant Secretary (and briefly Performing the Duties) of the Navy for Manpower and Reserve Affairs and was instrumental in the standing up the Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and the restructure of the Office of Force Resiliency.
Previously Mr. Hogue served as Counsel for the Commandant, United States Marine Corps, a position he held since 2004. In that position, he served as the senior legal advisor to the Commandant, Assistant Commandant, Deputy Commandants and other senior leaders within the Marine Corps, leading 120 legal professionals located across the globe. He was appointed to the senior executive service in 2000 and served as the Deputy Counsel for the Commandant. He later was appointed Assistant General Counsel (Financial Management and Comptroller of the Navy), the chief financial management attorney for the DON, until his appointment as Counsel in 2004. When he first joined the DON, he served as principal legal advisor in the areas of satellite systems, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance; later he served as Associate Counsel for Combat Weapons Systems at the Naval Sea Systems Command.
Mr. Hogue has practiced law in both public and private sectors. He received his Juris Doctor degree from George Mason University School of Law, where also served as associate editor of the Law Review, and his bachelor’s degree from The George Washington University. He has received numerous awards to include Presidential Rank Awards (Distinguished and Meritorious), the Defense of Freedom Medal, and Distinguished Civilian Service Medal.
Col Eric Chase, USMC (Ret)
After graduation from Princeton University in 1968, Col. Chase served as a Marine officer on active duty for 39 months. He was an infantry platoon commander in Vietnam until wounded in January 1970.
He graduated from the University of Minnesota Law School with honors in 1974.
From 1971 to 1998, he had numerous reserve assignments, including infantry company commander and Commanding Officer, 4th Civil Affairs Group. During 1994-95 on special assignment at Headquarters Marine Corps, he was the reserve member of CMC’s working group on roles, functions and missions.
From 1991 to 1998, he was a member of the Adjunct Faculty of the Command and Staff College in Quantico, and served on the Marine Corps Law of War teaching team.
Col. Chase’s publications number about 200. He has written about military and defense issues in The New York Times, The Washington Post, NewsweeJ<, the Marine Corps Gazette, Strategic Review, and other newspapers and journals. He has appeared on many broadcast programs as a military expert, including Good Morning America, CBS Sunday Morning, Larry King Live, and The Charlie Rose Show.
Personal awards include the Legion of Merit (2 awards). Purple Heart, Navy Commendation Medal with combat “V” and Combat Action Ribbon.
Col Christopher Escamilla, USMC (Ret)
Mr. Chris Escamilla is currently the Chief Operating Officer for Mistral, Inc. based in Bethesda, Maryland.
As a Marine, Chris was a career artillery officer serving in numerous locations both in the United States and abroad. In addition to numerous operational tours to include Marine Expeditionary Unit and Operation Iraqi Freedom deployments, he commanded 3d Battalion, 11th Marines in 29 Palms, California as well as Combined Arms Training Center (CATC) Camp Fuji in mainland Japan. His dey staff assignments included serving at Combined Forces Command/United Nations Command in the Republic of Korea and tours at Headquarters Marine Corps at Program and Resources and Manpower and Reserve Affairs. Chris is a graduate of Harvard Business School Advance Management Program (AMP), holds a Master in Arts in Strategic Studies from the Marine Corps War College and a Master of Arts in National Security Studies from American Military University, and was a 2015-2016 Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Seminar XXI (Foreign Politics, International Relations, and the National Interest) Fellow. He retired from the Marine Corps in 2023.
Col Matthew Jones, USMC (Ret)
Dr. Matthew Jones, a retired Marine Corps infantry officer, is Professor of Practice in Joint Warfare at the Marine Corps War College.
While on active duty, his command assignments included the Marine Corps Tactics and Operations Group and the 3rd Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion.
Staff assignments included Chief of Staff and Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations (G-3) of I MEF, Director of Ground Combat Element Branch, HQMC (PP&O), and Director of Operational Assessments, ISAF Joint Command, and Military Assistant to the Executive Secretary in the Office of the Secretary of Defense.
He has served in combat in Afghanistan, Iraq, Somalia, and Kuwait and has deployed extensively to the Western Pacific region. Personal awards include the Defense Superior Service Medal, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, Purple Heart, and three Combat Action Ribbons.
Following retirement he worked as an independent consultant on wargaming, simulation, and service strategy development projects within the Marine Corps Combat Development and Training and Education Commands, as a senior analyst at Systems Planning and Analysis, Inc., and as a Special Advisor to the 38th Commandant of the Marine Corps.
He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from Yale University, a Masters of Science in National Security Strategy from the National War College, and a PhD in Military History from the University of Leeds.
Col Andrew O. Starr, USMC (Ret)
Andrew “Andy” O. Starr joined the board in 2023 and has been a member of the association for nearly two decades, both as an active-duty officer, and private consultant. He currently serves on the Board of Directors, Board of Governance, and various committees. Andy is a native of Lake Forest, Illinois, and a graduate of Lake Forest College, with a Bachelor of Arts in History. He served 29 years in the United States Marine Corps, as Supply Officer, Logistics Officer, and Contracting Officer. He held numerous Command & Staff billets, and served joint tours with the Army and Air Force. He distinguished himself in service, assigned to every element of the Marine Air Ground Task Force; Division, Air Wing, Force Service Support Group, to include two tours at Headquarter Marine Corps, Marine Corps System Command and Marine Corps Logistic Base, Albany, Georgia. He has completed every level of advance educations through Top Level School at the Air War College.
An accomplished private consult for the last decade, as well as coach of various sports for Middle School, High School, or Special Olympics’. A longtime member the Paralyzed Veterans of America, Disabled Veterans of America, National Rifle Association, MOAA, St. Jude’s Hospital, and the Veterans of Foreign Wars. He also has a secondary talent of owning, restoring, and showing very rare Buick cars across North America. Besides showing cars, Andy is an avid fishermen and hunter. He organizes Military tributes with various charity events each year. He is married to the lovely Stacy L. Starr, and they have two childred Andrew and Abigail, residing in Waterford, Virginia.
LtCol William Holdorf, USMC (Ret)
LtCol Jeff Speights, USMC (Ret)
Jeff Speights works in the Defense Customer Accounts organization, for the Raytheon Missiles & Defense (RMD) business, and serves as the Director for all Marine Corps accounts. He is responsible for facilitating all RMD activities involving the support of U.S. Marine Corps contracts, RMD customer requirements and other Marine Corps business opportunities. He has been with Raytheon for 8 years.
Raytheon Technologies, based in Waltham, MA, is an industry leader in defense and government electronics, space, information technology, technical services, and commercial and defense aviation and aerospace. Raytheon Technologies has 4 major businesses; Raytheon Missiles and Defense; Raytheon Intelligence and Space; Collins Aerospace Systems; and Pratt & Whitney.
Mr. Speights has over 38 successful years of experience in positions of increasing responsibility involving leadership, business development, and acquisition program management. Prior to assuming his current position Mr. Speights was employed by Vistronix Inc., where he served as Vice President, Business Development for their Defense Strategic Business Unit. Before Vistronix, Mr. Speights served in senior Business Development positions with Technology Associates, QinetiQ North America, and Ocean Systems Engineering Corporation.
Throughout these assignments, Mr. Speights was integrally involved in the identification, cultivation, and pursuit of new Navy / Marine Corps opportunities, and the generation of revenue growth.
Mr. Speights has an extensive Marine Corps background, serving for 21+ years as an Air Defense/ Aviation Command & Control officer, including combat command during Operations Desert Shield / Desert Storm and the counter-narcotics Operation Laser Strike.
Additionally, Mr. Speights garnered a wealth of defense systems acquisition and program management experience during his two tours at Marine Corps Systems Command, Quantico, VA, where he served initially as the Marine Corps Liaison Officer to the U.S. Army Missile Command at Redstone Arsenal, AL, and subsequently as the Program Manager / Deputy Program Manager for the Common Aviation Command and Control System (CAC2S) program. During this assignment, he led the efforts of a diverse team of government agencies, laboratories, and multiple defense contractors in the acquisition process, encompassing all aspects of systems engineering, software development, and lifecycle support. He retired from active duty in 2005 as a Lieutenant Colonel.
Mr. Speights received a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Public Administration from the University of Mississippi in 1983. He is also a graduate of the Defense Acquisition University, and certified as a Defense Acquisition Professional.
Jeff currently lives in Stafford, VA with his wife Tammy.
SgtMaj Johnny Baker, USMC (Ret)
SgtMaj Johnny B. Baker was born in Gadsden, Alabama. Upon graduation from Gadsden High School, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps on 29 July 1969. After completion of Recruit Training at Parris Island, South Carolina, he attended the Aviation Jet Course in Memphis, Tennessee. He was assigned MOS 6012. After graduating from the Aviation Machinist Jet Course, he received further special training and worked on the Marine Corps A-4 Skyhawk Attack Aircraft for twelve years as a Jet Engine and Aircraft Mechanic. In those twelve years, SgtMaj Baker served with VMA 324, MCAS Beaufort, SC; MARTD Jacksonville, FL; VMA-211 (Iwakuni, Japan & El Toro, CA; MARTD Memphis, TN; and H&MS-13, El Toro, CA.
SgtMaj Baker then was ordered to Marine Security Guard School and was assigned as the NCOIC of the Marines at the American Embassy in Jakarta, Indonesia for two years. He received a Navy Commendation Medal for his superior performance. After two years of ensuring the safeguard of the American Embassy, he returned to the United States where he was promoted to the rank of First Sergeant. During the next five years as a 1stSgt, he served duties at India Battery, 3rd Battalion, 12th Marines, Okinawa; I-I Duty Augusta, GA (MT Maintenance); and Landing Support Equipment Co, 2nd LSB, Camp Lejeune, NC. In August 1989, he was promoted to the Marine Corps top enlisted rank, that of Sergeant Major. As a Marine Corps Sergeant Major, he was assigned as the Senior Enlisted Marine of Station & Operations Squadron (SOMS) and Headquarters & Headquarters Squadron (H&HS), Kaneohe Bay, HI; Regimental SgtMaj for 14th Marine Regiment, Dallas, TX; and was the Base SgtMaj at MCAS Beaufort, SC. While at this assignment, he was the Senior Enlisted Marine responsible for the welfare of over three thousand Marines, Sailors, and their families.
SgtMaj Baker retired from the Marine Corps on 1 August 1999, after 30 years of honest and faithful service. After retirement from the Marine Corps, Johnny and his wife moved back to Alabama to be close to family and friends. Johnny applied to attend Gadsden State Community College and graduated in May 2001 with an Associate of Applied Science Degree in Electronics Engineering Technology, suma cum laudi. He then graduated from Thomas Edison State College in Trenton, NJ with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Electronics Engineering in June 2004. He then attended Alabama A&M University and graduated in May 2006 with a Masters Degree in Industrial Technology with emphasizes in Technology Education. SgtMaj Baker worked at Gadsden State Community College starting in 2002 and finally retired in 2021 as the Director of Adult Education Services.
SgtMaj Baker has been a Marine Corps League member since 2002. Within the Marine Corps League, he served as the Commandant of the McLaughlin Detachment, Gadsden, AL, the Commandant of the Department of Alabama, Southeast Division Assistant National Vice Commandant, National Judge Advocate, National Junior Vice Commandant, National Senior Vice Commandant, and the National Commandant/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Marine Corps League from Aug 2021 to Aug 2023. He now serves as the Junior Past National Commandant. He has served on the Marine Corps League’s Board of Trustees for over eight years. SgtMaj also serves his community as the local coordinator for the Toys for Tots program in Gadsden, Alabama. SgtMaj Baker is a member of the Board of Trustees of the Marine Corps League, a member of the Board of Directors of the Young Marines, of the Marine Corps Association, member of the American Legion, local Chamber of Commerce, and Coordinator for his local Toys for Tots.
Sergeant Major Baker’s personal decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal (with 1 Gold star in lieu of second award), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal, and Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
Johnny is married to the former Janice Thompson of Gadsden, Alabama. They live in Leesburg, Alabama, on Weiss Lake. They have two sons, Johnny Jr. and James who both live in Warner Robbins, Georgia. Both sons are married and have given Johnny and Janice four grandsons, three granddaughters and two step grandsons and one great grandson.
SgtMaj Thomas Eggerling, USMC (Ret)
Sergeant Major Thomas “Tom” Eggerling, (USMC, Ret.) is a member of the Marine Corps Association Board of Governors. He currently serves as a Director of Federal Transformation Delivery for KPMG, LLP in McLean, Virginia. He reported to Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego, California in November 1989 and retired from active duty in 2021 as the Sergeant Major of Marine Corps Combat Development Command/Combat Development & Integration. He also serves as a Marine Corps Scholarship Fund Scarlet and Gold committee member, an American Corporate Partner mentor, a member of the Marine Corps League, and longtime volunteer for both Semper Fi & America’s Fund as well as the Marine Corps Marathon Event Series.
Throughout his Marine Corps Career, Tom served in a variety of assignments including the Manpower Management Sergeant Major, Marine Corps Forces, South Sergeant Major, and the HMM-163 (13th MEU ACE) Sergeant Major. Other notable assignments included 3rd Battalion, 2nd Marines, 2nd Reconnaissance Battalion, 1st Battalion 4th Marines, and duty as a canvassing recruiter and SNCOIC in support of RS Omaha and RS Des Moines. He also served on Inspector-Instructor Duty in Aurora, Colorado and Seal Beach, California. He has multiple combat tours along with MEU and UDP experience. His awards include multiple Legions of Merit, Meritorious Service Medals, Navy/Marine Corps Commendation and Achievement medals, and the Combat Action Ribbon. He is authorized to wear Aerial Observer wings and is a recipient of the St. Barbara’s Medal.
Tom has a Master of Science in Management, a Bachelor of Science in General Studies, and a variety of civilian credentials and certifications. He is married to Master Sergeant Marian Eggerling (USMC, Ret).
SgtMaj Michael Mack, USMC (Ret)
SgtMaj Mack enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in June 1986 and attended recruit training at 3rd Recruit Training Battalion Parris Island, SC. He graduated from recruit training and was meritoriously promoted to the rank of PFC in September 1986. He then reported to Basic School at Camp Johnson in Camp Lejeune, NC and upon completion of the Basic Course he reported to MCAS Yuma, AZ for duty as a Finance Clerk. In August 1987, LCpl Mack transferred to Casualty Co, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, CA then on to HqCo, H&S Bn MCRD, San Diego, CA in November 1987. In November 1989, he was promoted to the rank of Cpl and was an honor graduate from Combat Enhancement Training. Cpl Mack was then transferred to Quantico, VA in December 1989 to be an auditor in the Finance Office, Separations Section. Cpl Mack also deployed to 3rd FSSG Okinawa, Japan to support Operation Cobra Gold. In May 1993, he was promoted to the rank of Sgt and tasked with training and creating the Standard Operating Procedures for the Finance Office for the Separation of Marines in Okinawa, Japan. In January 1994, Sgt Mack reported to MCB Kaneohe Bay, HI selected as NCO of the Quarter, assigned as the Battalion Career Planner, and appointed as the Color Sergeant. In April 1997, he was promoted to SSgt and reported to HqCo, H&S Bn Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, CA for duty as the Pay SNCOIC of the Finance Office. In June of 1999, SSgt Mack reported to Drill Instructor School where upon completion, he was assigned to Bravo Co 1st Recruit Training Battalion MCRD, San Diego, CA. SSgt Mack held the billet of Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor, Chief Drill Instructor, Operations Chief, and Operations Officer. He was selected by his peers to be the recipient of the Dan Daly Leadership Award, GySgt Nichols Award (Best New Drill Instructor), Drill Instructor of the Quarter, and 3 Honor Platoons, a Company Honor man, and Series Honor man.
In August 2001, SSgt Mack was promoted to the rank of GySgt and was re-assigned to Marine Forces Atlantic. In August 2002, GySgt Mack was interviewed as a Manpower Analyst representing the Marine Corps at Manpower and Reserve Affairs (M&RA), Office of the Secretary of Defense (OSD). In August 2003, GySgt Mack transferred to the position of Marine Analyst for the Marine Corps at Marine Information Systems at M&RA Division. In May 2004, GySgt Mack was transferred to Officer Candidate School where he served as a Platoon Sergeant and received the Best Drill Instructor of the Cycle Award. During August 2004, GySgt Mack attended the Advanced Course, Quantico VA where he distinguished himself through the course and was chosen by his peers as the recipient of the class Gung Ho Award for the student who best personified the traits and principles of Leadership of a Staff Non-Commissioned Officer. In December of 2004, SgtMaj Mack was selected to rank of 1stSgt and was frocked on February 2nd, 2005, where he assumed duties as Company 1stSgt Marine Corps Institute Marine Barracks, 8TH & I, Washington, DC on the third day of February 2005. In September 2006, 1stSgt Mack received PCSO to 1st Marine Division and deployed with 1st Combat Engineer Battalion to Ramadi Iraq. In October 2008, SgtMaj Mack was selected to the rank of SgtMaj and received PCAOs to proceed to MWSS-373 in April 2009 and redeployed to Afghanistan with Marine Wing Support Squadron 373 Third Marine Air Wing. May 2011, SgtMaj Mack returned from deployment and reported for duty at Recruiting Station Orange, 12th Marine Corps District as the Recruiting Station Sergeant Major. May 2013, SgtMaj Mack reported for duty as the SgtMaj of the Wounded Warrior Regiment. February 2016, SgtMaj Mack had his relief and appointment/retirement ceremony and was officially retired from the United States Marine Corps on 01 July 2016 after 30 years of faithful service. After retirement Mr. Mack went to work at the U.S. AbilityOne Commission a Federal Agency as the Director of Oversight and Compliance GS-15 until January 2021. Currently, Mr. Mack is the CEO of Mack Strategic Solutions a consulting agency that supports Wounded, Ill and Injured Veterans.
SgtMaj Mack’s personal awards include Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal in lieu of 2nd Award, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal in lieu of fifth award, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal in lieu of second award, Marine Corps Good Conduct Medal in lieu of eighth award, National Defense Medal in lieu of second award, Sea Service Deployment Ribbon in lieu of third award, Iraqi Campaign, Afghanistan Campaign, NATO ISAF Afghanistan, and the Recruiting Ribbon and the Drill Instructor Ribbon second award.
SgtMaj Stephanie K. Murphy, USMC (Ret)
Sergeant Major Murphy was born in Pine Bluff, Arkansas in 1967. She graduated from Dollarway High School, Pine Bluff, Arkansas in 1985. In May of 1988, she enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. She went to boot camp at Parris Island, South Carolina and was meritoriously promoted to Private First Class. She was transferred to Fort Eustis, Virginia where she was ordered to military occupational specialist training at the United States Army Transportation School, where she was assigned the MOS of 3112, Traffic Management Specialist.
After completion of school, she was assigned to Beach and Port Terminal Operations Company, 3rd Landing Support Battalion, Camp Kinser, Okinawa, Japan as a Traffic Management Specialist. During her tour in Okinawa, she deployed to Camp Fuji, Japan with Combat Service Support Detachment Fourteen for three months. Private First Class Murphy was promoted to Lance Corporal in April 1989.
In November 1989, Lance Corporal Murphy transferred to Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Air Station El Toro, California as a Traffic Management Specialist. In December of 1991, she reenlisted for four years. After her reenlistment, Lance Corporal Murphy was promoted to Corporal in January of 1992. She remained in El Toro until May 1993 and then transferred to Kadena Air Base, Okinawa, Japan for a one year, unaccompanied tour where she was a Passenger Service Agent.
Upon completion of her unaccompanied tour, she transferred to Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, assigned as a Traffic Management Specialist where she remained for 2 years. While stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, North Carolina, she was promoted to Sergeant in November of 1994.
In October of 1996, Sergeant Murphy reported to Drill Instructor School at Parris Island, South Carolina. She graduated December of 1996 and was assigned to Oscar Company, 4th Recruit Training Battalion. In April of 1998, Sergeant Murphy was promoted to the rank of Staff Sergeant. During her assignment she was assigned as a Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor, and Series Gunnery Sergeant.
In December 1999, after a successful tour, Staff Sergeant Murphy transferred to Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Logistics Base, Albany, Georgia where she was assigned as the Staff Noncommissioned Officer in Charge of the Traffic Management Office. During this assignment, Gunnery Sergeant Major attended the United States Army Transportation School’s Joint Personal Property Course and was honored as the Distinguish Graduate. In April 2001, Staff Sergeant Murphy received an accelerated promotion to Gunnery Sergeant.
In September 2001, Gunnery Sergeant Murphy requested orders to Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL to train Naval Officer Candidates. After completing Drill Instructor School for the second time, Gunnery Sergeant Murphy served as a drill instructor for three years. After the completion of her first class, Gunnery Sergeant Murphy was awarded a Congressional Record proceedings and debates of the United States of America, by the 107th Congress Second Session, Volume 148, Number 104, Washington, on Friday, July 26, 2002. The Senate honoring her as the First Female Drill Instructor at Naval Officer Candidate School. While assigned as a Drill Instructor, Gunnery Sergeant Murphy served as a Drill Instructor and Battalion Drill Instructor Advisor.
Gunnery Sergeant Murphy was frocked to the rank of First Sergeant in January 2005 and reported to Inspector & Instructor Staff Indianapolis, Indiana immediately as the First Sergeant of Detachment Communications, Communication Company Headquarters Battalion, 4th Marine Division and Detachment Two, Electronics Maintenance, 4th Marine Logistics Group. During this tour of duty, First Sergeant Murphy served in numerous collateral billets.
In June of 2007, First Sergeant Murphy reported to First Radio Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, California as the First Sergeant of Headquarters and Service Company. In February 2008, First Sergeant Murphy deployed in support of Iraqi Freedom.
During January 2009, First Sergeant Murphy was frocked to the rank of Sergeant Major and immediately reported to the Marine Corps Recruit Depot, Parris Island, South Carolina for duty as the 4th Recruit Training Battalion Sergeant Major of the Recruit Training Regiment, Marine Corps Recruit Depot/Eastern Recruiting Region, Parris Island, South Carolina. Sergeant Major Murphy served as the Senior Enlisted Advisor for two Battalion Commanders and a personal example for the only all enlisted-female Recruit Training Battalion in the Department of Defense, providing inspiring leadership and counsel to enlisted and officers alike. She was directly responsible for the thorough indoctrination of over 4600 new Marines to meet the challenges of the future operating environment.
After completing this tour, Sergeant Major Murphy reported to the Combat Logistics Battalion Two, 2nd Marine Logistics Group and in July 2012 deployed to combat in support of Operation Enduring Freedom 12-2.
She returned from combat deployment in February 2013 and reported to Officer Candidates School in April 2013 as the Sergeant Major of Officer Candidates School, Training Command, Quantico, Virginia. Sergeant Major Murphy served as an inspiring role model for officer candidates and the Marines and Sailors of Officer Candidates School. She was responsible for the professional and leadership development of drill instructors and over 3200 officer candidates. Notably, Sergeant Major Murphy was the first female Sergeant Major to covet this assignment.
In June 2015, Sergeant Major Murphy posted as the Marine Corps Logistics Command Sergeant Major, Albany, Georgia. This was the final Command of Service to both Nation and Corps; it was here Sergeant Major Murphy served her final three years of service and retired with a culmination of thirty years of service.
Sergeant Major Murphy’s personal decorations include the Legion of Merit, Meritorious Service Medal (with 3 Gold Stars in lieu of fourth award), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with 2 Gold Stars in lieu of third award), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (with 1 Gold Stars in lieu of second award),.
Sergeant Major Murphy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Interdisciplinary Social Sciences Degree from the University of West Florida and a Master of Business Administration degree from the American Military University. She has obtained a Doctor of Management in Organizational Leadership from the University of Phoenix.
Dr. Murphy completed her research in the area of Mentoring in the Military. Her dissertation was on Cross-Gender Mentoring Experience of a Few Good Women.
In retirement, Dr. Murphy is the Creative Executive Officer for Tuxedobox, LLC (tuxedobox.com) which is a Lifestyle Consultant and Organization/Leadership Management Company. This organization’s mission is to mentor, guide, help, and assist with life’s goals.
Dr. Murphy is a Lifetime Member of National Montford Point Marine Association and the Women Marine Association. She is a member of the Military Women’s Memorial, Marine Corps Heritage Foundation, Marine Corps Association and Foundation, Wounded Warrior Project, and the United Service Organizations, Inc.
She is active member of the University of West Florida Alumni Association and the University of Phoenix Alumni Association.
She is the Architectural and Design Committee Chair for her Homeowner’s Association.
SgtMaj Gary Smith, USMC (Ret)
Sergeant Major Smith was born in Walterboro, South Carolina. He attended Walterboro High School and upon graduation, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He attended recruit training at Parris Island, South Carolina and was meritoriously promoted to PFC upon completion of recruit training. Subsequently transferred to Twenty Nine Palms, California where he attended the Field Radio Operator Course and was assigned the MOS 2531.
Upon completion of MOS training, Sergeant Major Smith received orders to 2nd Marine Division, Camp Lejeune, North Carolina and was assigned to Headquarters Battalion, Communications Company Radio Platoon. During this tour of duty he was deployed in support of Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm.
In March 1993, Sergeant Major Smith was ordered to Okinawa, Japan. Assigned to 3rd Marine Division, he served with the 12th Marine Regiment, Communications Radio Platoon as a section leader. Upon completion of a one-year tour, Sergeant Major Smith was transferred to the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing where he served with Marine Wing Support Squadron-273, MCAS Beaufort, South Carolina. Assigned to the Communications Platoon, he served as the Radio Section leader and was promoted to Sergeant in October 1994.
In July 1995, Sergeant Major Smith requested and received orders to Drill Instructor School, MCRD Parris Island, South Carolina. Upon graduation from Drill Instructor School, he was assigned to 2nd Recruit Training Battalion. During this successful tour of duty, he served as a Drill Instructor, Senior Drill Instructor, and Series Gunnery Sergeant with Golf Company.
After his successful tour of duty on the Drill Field, Sergeant Major Smith Was transferred in November 1998 and reported to The Basic School, Quantico, Virginia as the Communications Chief. During this tour he was promoted to Gunnery Sergeant and was subsequently assigned to Officer Candidate School Permanent Personnel where he served as Sergeant Instructor, Platoon Sergeant, Company Gunnery Sergeant, and General Military Subjects Chief.
In June 2002, Sergeant Major Smith received orders to 1st MAW and was assigned to Headquarters & Service Company, Marine Wing Communications Squadron- 18 where he served as company First Sergeant. During this tour of duty he also served with the Central Identification Lab as a Communications Watch Officer for the 81’st mission to Laos for the recovery of U.S. Service Members Remains.
December 2003 Sergeant Major Smith was selected to First Sergeant and was transferred to 7th Communications Battalion, IIIMEF Headquarters Group serving as Service Company First Sergeant. March 2005 posted as the Alpha Company First Sergeant. January 2006 transferred to 3rd Transportation Support Battalion 3rd MLG and posted as the Headquarters & Service Company First Sergeant.
October 2006 Sergeant Major Smith attended the Senior Enlisted Academy (SEA) class 128 in Newport, RI. Sergeant Major Smith was the recipient of the Distinguished Honor graduate award in class 128.
July 2007 transferred to 1st BN 1Oth Marines 2nd Marine Division, posted as the Charlie Battery First Sergeant. October 2007 selected to current rank of Sergeant Major.
July 2008 SgtMaj Smith transferred to Marine Attack Squadron 542, MAG 14, 2d MAW and posted as the Squadron Sergeant Major.
May 2010 SgtMaj Smith was selected and posted as the Director of the Quantico Staff Noncommissioned Officer Academy. Sergeant Major Smith was responsible for and oversaw the efforts of more than 50 permanent personnel and two civilians who supported and educated more than 3,000 Marines, sister service and international students during the operation of all courses.
January 2012 SgtMaj Smith attends Keystone Command Senior Enlisted Leaders Course at the National Defense University.
July 2012 SgtMaj Smith was selected as the Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa Command Senior Enlisted Leader and posted on 15 July 2012. As the Command Senior Enlisted Leader for CJTF-HOA, Sergeant Major Smith served as the principal advisor to the Commander of CJTF-HOA on all issues affecting the health, morale, welfare and professional development for more than 1,800 Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines joint service personnel in 14 countries on the continent of Africa.
August 2013 SgtMaj Smith transferred to 4th Marine Logistics Group, New Orleans, LA. He serves as the principal advisor to the 4th Marine Logistics Group Commander on all issues affecting health, morale, welfare and professional development for Marines and Sailors within the command.
May 2016 Sergeant Major Gary Smith transferred to Marine Corps Systems Command (MARCORSYSCOM), Quantico, VA. He served as the principal advisor to the MARCORSYSCOM Commander on all issues affecting health, morale, welfare and professional development for Marines within the command. This was the final Command of Service to both Nation and Corps, it was here SgtMaj Smith retired with a culmination of almost three decades of service.
Sergeant Major Smith’s personal decorations include the Legion of Merit (with 1Gold star in lieu of second award), the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Meritorious Service Medal (with 1Gold star in lieu of second award), Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (with 3Gold stars in lieu of fourth award), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (with 3 Gold stars in lieu of fourth award) and the Combat Action Ribbon.
Sergeant Major Smith holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Management from Excelsior College and Master of Science Degree from Louisiana State University (LSU) School of Business. SgtMaj Smith also holds a certification as a Professional Counselor through the U.S. Department of Labor.
In Retirement SgtMaj Smith is the Chief Executive Officer for the Smith Leadership Consulting Group (Smithlcg.com) which focuses on Motivational Speaking, Executive Leadership Coaching and Workforce Leadership Development.
Gary is the Regional Chief Instructor for the Enlisted Seminars (Quantico Region) for the College of Distance Education & Training (CDET) at Marine Corps University.
Gary sits on the Board of Directors for Thrive Virginia. Gary is also a Member of The Academy of Human Resource Development (AHRD). Gary is also a member of the American Association of Christian Counselors (AACC). Gary is a devoted member of both Louisiana State University (LSU) & Excelsior College Alumni Associations. Gary is a Facilitator for Anger Management Classes for At- Risk Youth for the State of Virginia (Fredericksburg Area). Gary is Member of the Marines Memorial Association & Foundation. Gary is Member of the Marine Corps Association & Foundation. SgtMaj Smith is authoring a book that promises to be a Best Seller discussing The Art & Science in Leadership Development, due to be released in early fall 2021.
SgtMaj Robert "Grant" Van Oostrom
Sergeant Major Robert “Grant” VanOostrom, (USMC-Ret.) is a member of the Marine Corps Association Board of Governors. He currently serves as the Vice President of Program Management for IronMountain Solutions, Inc. in Huntsville, AL and supports the U.S. Army Program Executive Office, Aviation aboard Redstone Arsenal, AL as a Systems Analyst for the Training Aids, Devices, Simulators, and Simulations (TADSS) Liaison Office. He reported to Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, SC in October of 1985 and retired from the Marine Corps on 1 October 2017.
Throughout his Marine Corps career, Grant was assigned numerous duties to include: 7041 Aviation Operations Specialist, Aviation Operations Chief; Marine Security Guard, Assistant Detachment Commander, American Embassy Athens, Greece and U.S. Interests Section Havana, Cuba; Recruiter, RS Nashville, TN; First Sergeant, Charlie Company, Weapons Company, and Headquarters and Service Company, 2d Light Armored Reconnaissance Battalion; Sergeant Major, Marine Wing Support Squadron 171, Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron MCAS New River, Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 263, Marine Aircraft Group 29, Marine Corps Installations East, II Marine Expeditionary Force, and Manpower and Reserve Affairs.
Grant has a Bachelor of Science with a focus in Administration Management and is a graduate of Leadership Greater Huntsville Flagship Class 33. He and his wife (Melissa) have two children – Caleb and Cassidy.
Mr. Thomas "Tom" Craig
Thomas “Tom” Craig represents, advises, and counsels individuals and entities in a wide variety of matters, including government contracting, sensitive government inquiries and internal investigations, complex civil litigation, export and other regulatory compliance, structuring business transactions, and criminal defense.
Mr. Craig has extensive experience representing government contractors, especially in high stakes litigation. He assisted a major defense manufacturer in obtaining a nine-figure judgment from its principle subcontractor in a case involving allegations of overcharging and trade secret violations. While he handles all matters related to government contractors, from bid protests
to teaming agreements, Mr. Craig specializes in high-profile and high-risk matters that require comprehensive coordination of legal, media, political, and consulting efforts.
His other matters include breach of contract claims against the government, enforcement of work share agreements, violations of non-competition agreements, bank fraud claims, grand jury subpoenas, and alleged trade secret violations. He also has extensive employment law experience, including drafting employment contracts, advising on employment practices and policies, and litigating a wide variety of employment issues.
Before joining FH+H, Mr. Craig practiced law at Williams & Connolly LLP. Mr. Craig earned a Bachelor of Science in Economics from the University of Illinois and graduated magna cum laude from Georgetown University Law Center where he was also an editor of the Georgetown Law Journal.
Mr. Craig had a distinguished military career, serving more than 21 years as an active duty Marine, primarily in intelligence and counterintelligence billets.
REPRESENTATIVE MATTERS
+ Assists U.S. companies working in the national security environment by navigating regulations regarding investments, exports and security requirements.
+ Assists both Commercial and Government Contracting Companies in resolving complex disputes, including through negotiation, mediation, arbitration and litigation
+ Assists government contractors in resolving disputes with their government customers, including negotiations, administrative claims, and formal litigation.
+ Advises corporations on complex business transactions, including mergers, acquisitions, and joint ventures.
Mr. Gavin Philipps
Gavin is the Chief Commercial Officer of Egg Medical, where he leads global commercial strategy, market development, and strategic partnerships. In this role, he works closely with health systems, physicians, and clinical leaders to advance innovative radiation protection solutions that improve safety standards for medical professionals. His background includes leadership roles in medical technology commercialization and business development, with a focus on scaling emerging companies and driving sustainable growth. He previously served as a commercial leader for Boston Scientific and Tyco Healthcare (now Medtronic).
Gavin served as an artillery officer with 5th Battalion, 11th Marines, assigned to Sierra Battery with the United States Marine Corps. While on active duty he deployed with the 15th Marine Expeditionary Unit to the Middle East, while serving Echo Company, 2nd Battalion, 1st Marines.
In addition to his corporate leadership, Gavin has served on the Board of Directors for Next Step Development Corporation, an organization dedicated to helping unhoused veterans, and has served his community as an active leader in Scouts of America, and various fundraising leadership roles in his community. Additionally, he has been actively involved in fundraising initiatives and leadership development programs designed to cultivate principled, values-based leaders with Sigma Chi Fraternity nationally and at Purdue University. He also serves as an active member of MedtechVets, an organization helping transitioning servicemembers get into the medical technical field.
Residing in North Carolina with his family, Gavin remains dedicated to advancing organizations that promote service, leadership, and lasting impact in the communities they serve.