Marine Corps Ceremonies
For the important milestones in a Marine’s Career, MCA&F has the information you need.
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MARINE CORPS RECRUIT TRAINING AND OCS GRADUATIONS
Becoming a Marine is one of life’s most memorable events.
MCA&F has the information you need to celebrate these events.
MCRD MUSEUM FOUNDATION
The MCRD Museum Foundation staff offers tours of MCRD and the museum, reserved seating at graduations, hotel and golf packages, personalized gear and more.
Contact 619-524-4426 or email marketing@mcrdmhs.org for more information.
MCRD MUSEUM FOUNDATION
The MCRD Museum Foundation staff offers tours of MCRD and the museum, reserved seating at graduations, hotel and golf packages, personalized gear and more.
Contact 619-524-4426 or email marketing@mcrdmhs.org for more information.
MCRD MUSEUM FOUNDATION
The MCRD Museum Foundation staff offers tours of MCRD and the museum, reserved seating at graduations, hotel and golf packages, personalized gear and more.
Contact 619-524-4426 or email marketing@mcrdmhs.org for more information.
MCRD MUSEUM FOUNDATION
The MCRD Museum Foundation staff offers tours of MCRD and the museum, reserved seating at graduations, hotel and golf packages, personalized gear and more.
Contact 619-524-4426 or email marketing@mcrdmhs.org for more information.
MCRD MUSEUM FOUNDATION
The MCRD Museum Foundation staff offers tours of MCRD and the museum, reserved seating at graduations, hotel and golf packages, personalized gear and more.
Contact 619-524-4426 or email marketing@mcrdmhs.org for more information.
MCRD MUSEUM FOUNDATION
The MCRD Museum Foundation staff offers tours of MCRD and the museum, reserved seating at graduations, hotel and golf packages, personalized gear and more.
Contact 619-524-4426 or email marketing@mcrdmhs.org for more information.
MCRD MUSEUM FOUNDATION
The MCRD Museum Foundation staff offers tours of MCRD and the museum, reserved seating at graduations, hotel and golf packages, personalized gear and more.
Contact 619-524-4426 or email marketing@mcrdmhs.org for more information.
MCRD MUSEUM FOUNDATION
The MCRD Museum Foundation staff offers tours of MCRD and the museum, reserved seating at graduations, hotel and golf packages, personalized gear and more.
Contact 619-524-4426 or email marketing@mcrdmhs.org for more information.
Need USMC apparel to celebrate your new Marine? Visit The MARINE Shop!
Marine Corps Promotions
Whether pinning on private first class chevrons or being promoted to brigadier general,
MCA&F has the information you need
Enlisted Promotions to
Private First Class Through Sergeant
SECTION 1: ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS PRIVATE FIRST CLASS AND LANCE CORPORAL 2100. GENERAL. Marines in the grades of PFC and LCpl are required to exercise an ever-increasing degree of maturity, leadership, and professionalism. No Marine shall be promoted to PFC or LCpl who has not demonstrated these traits and the desire to assume positions of higher responsibility. 2101. PROMOTIONS TO PRIVATE FIRST CLASS AND LANCE CORPORAL IN THE ACTIVE COMPONENT 1. Private First Class. Marines who have served for 6 months on active duty in the grade of Pvt will be promoted to PFC, if the Marine’s service has been satisfactory (as determined by the commanding officer). TIG will be computed from the 1st day of he month of entry on active duty. For example, a Pvt who entered active duty on 27 May 2000 will be promoted to PFC on 1 November 2000. If the Marine’s service has been satisfactory, the TIG and TIS are computed as if the Pvt entered active duty on the 1st day of May. Time spent in the delayed entry program will not be used to compute TIG or TIS for promotion to PFC. Pvts who are hospitalized for periods that preclude normal completion of recruit training will be promoted to PFC while in recruit training, if recommended and not in a promotion restriction status (paragraph 1204 applies), upon attaining 6 months TIG. Although the Marine will be in a paid status as a PFC, the enlistee is not authorized to wear the PFC insignia until completion of recruit training. a. To eliminate the requirement for commanders to manually determine the eligibility of Pvts by TIG, and to reduce the number of late promotions because of administrative oversight, the Marine Corps Total Force System (MCTFS) will automatically identify the eligible personnel. A select grade of E2 will post to the unit’s Diary Feedback Report (DFR) the month prior to the promotion month for all Pvts who meet the TIG requirement. The select grade will not post if the commander reports a “NOT REC PROM” (not recommended for promotion) entry on the unit diary by the 15th of the month prior to the effective date of promotion. (1) When a Pvt has a select grade in the MCTFS, the promotion will be effected with a date of rank and effective date of the 1st day of the selected month. This applies to those Marines who are in a transit or leave status on the 1st day of the month. In these instances, or any other circumstances when the promotion is not effected on the 1st day of the month and the Marine is recommended, the command will effect the promotion on the unit diary with the date of rank and effective date of the 1st day of the month reflected in the select grade. The certificate of appointment will reflect the same dates as input on the unit diary. (2) Pvts who are in a promotion restriction status, per paragraph 1204, will not be promoted. However, Commanders may waive certain restrictions for deserving Pvts (see paragraph 1204). (3) A Marine who has been administratively reduced to the grade of Pvt for incompetence will be given his or her original date of rank, but may not be promoted to PFC for a period of 3 months (paragraphs 1204.3n and 6001.2f(1) apply). After 3 months, the commander will determine when and if the Marine meets the Marine Corps standards for promotion. *(4) A Marine who has been punitively reduced (chapter 7 applies) to the grade of Pvt as a result of NJP or court martial must serve the appropriate restriction as required by paragraph 1204.3 or the full 6 months time n grade, whichever is longer, from the date of reduction before becoming eligible for promotion to PFC. b. When a Pvt is not recommended for promotion and the command did not report a “NOT REC” entry on the unit diary prior to the select grade posting to the MCTFS, the command will report a “WILL NOT PROMOTE” entry to remove the select grade for the month concerned. A select grade will continue to post to the unit’s DFR each subsequent month unless a “NOT REC” entry is reported. This entry should be reported NLT the 15th of the month prior to the promotion month. Marines not recommended for promotion require a page 11 counseling entry and a monthly unit diary entry, per the current edition of MCO 1070.12. This will preclude future commands from requesting remedial promotion based on TIG. c. Refer to Chapter 4 of this Manual for meritorious promotions to PFC. 2. Lance Corporal. A PFC who has 8 months TIG from the PFC date of rank and 9 months TIS from the AFADBD and who is otherwise qualified for promotion, as determined by the commander, may be promoted to the grade of LCpl. A partial month is computed as a whole month for both elements. For example, a PFC promoted with a date of rank of 1 June 2000 and a PFC meritoriously promoted with a date of rank of 2 June 2000 both meet the 8 months TIG requirement on 1 February 2001. A Marine who is appointed a PFC upon initial entry on active duty (contract PFC) with a date of rank of 27 June 2000 meets the 8 months TIG and 9 months TIS requirement on 1 March 200. a. To eliminate the requirement for commanders to manually determine the eligibility of PFCs by TIG and TIS, and to reduce the number of late promotions because of administrative oversight, the MCTFS will automatically identify the eligible personnel. A select grade of E3 will post to the unit’s DFR the month prior to the promotion month for all PFCs who meet the TIG and TIS requirements. The select grade will not post if the commander Unit’s DFR the month prior to the promotion month for all PFCs who meet the TIG and TIS requirements. The select grade will not post if the commander reports a “NOT REC” entry on the unit diary by the 15th of the month prior to the effective date of promotion. (1) When a PFC has a select grade in the MCTFS, the promotion will be effected with a date of rank and effective date of the 1st day of the selected month. This applies to those Marines who are in a transit or leave status on the 1st day of the month. In these instances, or any other circumstances when the promotion is not effected on the 1st day of the month and the Marine is recommended, the command will effect the promotion on the unit diary with the date of rank and effective date of the 1st day of the month reflected in the select grade. The certificate of appointment will reflect the same dates as input on the unit diary. (2) PFCs who are in a promotion restriction status, per paragraph 1204, will not be promoted. However, commanders may waive certain restrictions for deserving LCpls (see paragraph 1204). (3) A Marine who has been administratively reduced to the grade of PFC for incompetence will be given his or her original date of rank, but may not be promoted to LCpl for a period of 3 months (paragraphs 1204.3n and 6001.2f (1) apply). After the 3 months, the commander will determine if the Marine meets the Marine Corps standards for promotion. *(4) A Marine who has been punitively reduced (chapter 7 applies) to the grade of PFC as a result of NJP or court-martial must serve the appropriate restriction as required by paragraph 1204.3 or the full 8 months time in grade, whichever is longer, from the date of reduction before becoming eligible for regular promotion to LCpl. b. When a PFC is not recommended for promotion and the command did not report a “NOT REC” entry on the unit diary prior to the select grade posting to the MCTFS, the command will report a “WILL NOT PROMOTE” entry to remove the select grade for the month concerned. A select grade will continue to post on the unit’s DFR each subsequent month unless a “NOT REC” entry is reported. This entry should be reported NLT the 15th of the month prior to the promotion month. Marines not recommended for promotion require a page 11 counseling entry and a monthly unit diary entry, per the current edition of MCO 1070.12. c. Refer to Chapter 4 of this Manual for meritorious promotions to LCpl. d. Marines who have returned to active duty after a period of broken service (USMC or USMCR) in the grade of PFC, and have been reappointed to the g
rade of PFC, may be promoted to LCpl after a minimum period of 30 days observation. The Marine may only be promoted if, on the 1st day of the month the promotion will be effected, the Marine has attained the required TIG/TIS and, in the opinion of the commander, the Marine is capable of performing in the higher grade. If not recommended by the commander, however, the Marine may be promoted the next month that he or she is recommended. Prior service in another branch of the Armed Forces is not applicable for prior service credit. 3. Promotion Waivers. If determined to be in the best interest of the command and the Marine Corps, commanders, as defined in paragraph 1200.3b, may waive an erroneous promotion to PFC and LCpl for Marines who, through no fault of their own, were promoted prior to attaining the required TIG and/or TIS. a. Commanders may, without reference to this Headquarters, waive erroneous promotions of Marines in the grades of PFC and LCpl who were promoted while under the restrictions listed in paragraph 1204.3f through 1204.3o. However, such waivers should be the exception rather than the rule. b. Commanders may, without reference to this Headquarters, rescind erroneous promotions of Marines in the grades of PFC and LCpl who were promoted while under the restrictions listed in paragraph 1204.3f through 1204.3o. A “DELETE AS ERRONEOUS” (delete promotion as erroneous) unit diary entry will be made for the promotion entry. SECTION 2: PROMOTIONS TO CORPORAL AND SERGEANT 2200. GENERAL. Marines in the grades of Cpl and Sgt are required to exercise an ever-increasing degree of maturity, leadership, and professionalism. To a large extent, accomplishment of the ultimate mission — success in battle — depends on the manner in which Marines are developed into small unit leaders and their professional abilities. Consequently, no Marine should be promoted to Cpl or Sgt who has not positively demonstrated the potential, motivation, and maturity to satisfactorily discharge the duties of a small unit leader. Therefore, it is even more critical to ensure that a commander’s recommendation concerning a Marine’s promotion to Cpl or Sgt is a thoughtful, deliberate decision. Each Marine recommended must be worthy of the title “Noncommissioned Officer.” Marines should be recommended for promotion to Cpl or Sgt only after demonstrating they are worthy of the next higher grade. 2201. PROMOTIONS TO CORPORAL AND SERGEANT IN THE ACTIVE COMPONENT 1. Corporal. The CMC will control the number of Marines to be promoted to Cpl through the use of the automated composite score. Promotions will be authorized on the basis of vacancies existing throughout the Marine Corps and will be effected by authorized commanders. Promotions will be effected monthly by primary MOS or intended MOS once the monthly promotion authority MARADMIN is received by the command and the “SELECT GRADE” is reflected on the unit’s DFR. The command will effect the promotion on the unit diary and prepare the certificate of appointment. These promotions will be based on composite scores (CS) which are automatically computed quarterly for each eligible LCpl. The term “eligible” as it relates to promotion refers to any LCpl who meets the 8 months TIG and 12 months TIS requirement by the end of the promotion quarter. The determination of which eligible LCpls will be promoted, subject to the composite score stipulation, is the sole responsibility of the commander. a. Since TIG/TIS is computed through the end of the promotion quarter, Marines who meet the TIG/TIS requirements during any month during a promotion quarter will have a composite score computed and will be considered eligible for promotion any month during that promotion quarter. Therefore, it is possible for a Marine to receive a select grade prior to obtaining the required 8 months TIG. If the Marine is recommended for promotion by the commander, he or she should be promoted. b. LCpls who are in a promotion restriction status, per paragraph 1204, will not be promoted. (1) A Marine who has been administratively reduced to the grade of LCpl for incompetence will be given his or her original date of rank, but may not be promoted to Cpl for a period of 6 months (paragraphs 1204.3m and 6001.2f(2) apply). *(2) A Marine who has been punitively reduced (chapter 7 applies) to the grade of LCpl must serve the appropriate restriction as required by paragraph 1204.3 or the full 8 months time in grade, whichever is longer, from the date of reduction before becoming eligible for promotion to Cpl. *c. To be eligible for promotion to corporal, IRR or SMCR Marines who transfer to the regular component (USMC), and prior service Marines (does not include Marines who reenlist under the PSEP; paragraph 2303), must do so by the cutoff date for the promotion quarter. Marines who transfer or join the USMC or USMCR after the cutoff date for the promotion quarter will not be eligible for promotion until the next promotion quarter. “Refer to paragraph 1203 for Marines with a select grade to Corporal/Sergeant who effect an intercategory/intercomponent transfer.” 2. Sergeant. The CMC will control the number of Marines to be promoted to Sgt through the use of the automated composite score system. Promotions will be authorized on the basis of vacancies existing throughout the Marine Corps and will be effected by authorized commanders. Promotions will be effected monthly by primary MOS or intended MOS once the monthly promotion authority MARADMIN is received by the command and the “SELECT GRADE” is reflected on the unit’s DFR. The command will effect the promotion on the unit diary and prepare the certificate of appointment. These promotions will be based on composite scores (CS) automatically computed quarterly for each eligible Cpl. The term “eligible” as it relates to promotion refers to any Cpl who meets the 12 month TIG and 24 month TIS requirement by the end of the promotion quarter. The determination of which eligible Cpls will be promoted, subject to the composite score stipulation, is the sole responsibility of the commander. a. Since TIG/TIS is computed through the end of the promotion quarter, Marines who meet the TIG/TIS requirements during any month in a promotion quarter will have a composite score computed and will be considered eligible for promotion any month during that promotion quarter. It is possible for a Marine to receive a select grade prior to obtaining the required 12 months TIG. If the Marine is otherwise recommended for promotion, he or she should be promoted. b. Cpls who are in a promotion restriction status, per paragraph 1204 will not be promoted. (1) A Marine who has been administratively reduced to the grade of Cpl for incompetence will be given his or her original date of rank, but may not be promoted to Sgt for a period of 6 months (paragraphs 1204.3m and 6001.2f(2) apply). *(2) A Marine who has been punitively reduced (chapter 7 applies) to the grade of Cpl must serve the appropriate restriction as required by paragraph 1204.3 or the full 12 months time in grade, whichever is longer, before being eligible for promotion to Sgt. (3) A Marine Cpl who has received nonjudicial punishment may not be promoted for 3 months from the date of the nonjudicial punishment. *c. To be eligible for promotion to sergeant, IRR or SMCR Marines who transfer to the regular component (USMC), and prior service Marines (does not include Marines who reenlist under the PSEP; paragraph 2303), must do so by the cutoff date for the promotion quarter. Marines who transfer or join the USMC or USMCR after the cutoff date for the promotion quarter will not be eligible for promotion until the next promotion quarter. “Refer to paragraph 1203 for Marines with a select grade to Corporal/Sergeant who effect an intercategory/ intercomponent transfer.” 3. A Marine is not promoted until the commander issues a promotion certificate to the Marine. Many errors occur in which a Marine is not promoted by issuance of a promotion certificate because of administrative oversight by the command; i.e., failure to promote on the 1st of the month or erroneou
sly entering “not recommended for promotion” in the MCTFS. When a Marine has a “SEL GRADE” in the MCTFS and the promotion is not effected because of an administrative error by the command, or because of a Marine’s transient/leave status, the command will effect the promotion on the unit diary with a date of rank and effective date of the 1st day of the selected month. The certificate must reflect the same dates as input on the unit diary. The following situations are examples of delayed promotions: a. If a Marine is actually promoted by a previous commander but the previous command fails to input the promotion in MCTFS, the receiving command will administratively promote the Marine in the MCTFS with a date of rank and effective date of the 1st of the month, as reflected on the promotion certificate. b. If the 1st of the month occurs on a weekend or holiday, the date of rank and effective date for both the promotion certificate and unit diary entry should reflect the 1st of the month, and the Marine should be promoted on the next working day. 4. Intended MOS Promotions. LCpls and Cpls in formal schools, training/ retraining assignments (including MOS conversions), or who have reenlisted and had a lateral move approved in conjunction with their reenlistment and are serving with a basic primary MOS (e.g., 0200) are considered for promotion in their intended MOS, provided the intended MOS was effective on or prior to the date of the monthly promotion authority MARADMIN. Marines who are promoted under their intended MOS, and later fail to complete the qualifications for that MOS, will be administratively reduced (paragraph 6002.1 applies). A LCpl or Cpl who reenlists and makes a lateral move is no longer eligible to be promoted in his former primary MOS. 5. Promotion Waivers. There will be no waivers of erroneous promotions to the grades of Cpl or Sgt for Marines who were promoted prior to attaining the required TIG and/or TIS, prior to attaining the required composite score, or promoted while in a promotion restriction status per paragraph 1204.3. The commander will remove the promotion entry from the MCTFS and restore the Marine’s appropriate grade.
Click the Link for More Information: Marine Corps Promotion Manual, Volume 1, Officer Promotions
Staff NonCommissioned Officer Promotions
SECTION 2: ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS 3200. GENERAL 1. Active Component SNCO Selection Boards a. To be eligible for consideration, the Marine must: (1) Meet the minimum eligibility requirements (i.e., TIG/TIS) and the eligibility requirements as listed on the MARADMIN (MCBul 1430) announcing the convening of the regularly scheduled selection board (i.e., JR DOR, AFADBD requirements). (2) Be serving on active duty with the active component on the date the appropriate regular selection board convenes; throughout the session of the board; and on the date the board report is approved by CMC. Interruption of active service for periods of less than 24 hours for the purpose of reenlistment will not be considered as an interruption of service for selection board purposes. b. Selection of Marines not satisfying these conditions will be considered erroneous. Such erroneous selections will be reported by the commander and subsequently deleted from the selection list. 2. Reserve Component Selection Boards a. A single board will be conducted to examine three separate competitive categories, within the reserve component (SMCR, IRR and AR). Reserve Marines in each category will compete for selection only with Marines in the appropriate category (i.e., SMCR with SMCR, IRR with IRR, and AR with AR, except IRR and SMCR GySgts and 1stSgts compete together for selection to SMCR 1stSgt and SgtMaj, respectively). b. AR Selection Boards (1) Meet the minimum eligibility requirements (i.e., TIG/TIS) and the MOS eligibility requirements as listed on the MARADMIN (MCBul 1430) announcing the convening of the Reserve SNCO selection board (i.e., JR DOR, AFADBD requirements). (2) Be serving on active duty with the AR Program on the date the appropriate selection board convenes. Interruption of service for periods of less than 24 hours for the purpose of reenlistment will not be considered as an interruption of service for selection board purposes. c. SMCR Selection Boards (1) Meet the minimum eligibility requirements (i.e., TIG/TIS) and the OccFld eligibility requirements as listed on the MARADMIN MCBul 1430) announcing the convening of the Reserve SNCO selection board (i.e., JR DOR, PEBD requirements). (2) Be an active participant in the SMCR. (3) Be serving in the SMCR on the date the appropriate selection board convenes. Interruption of service for periods of less than 24 hours for the purpose of reenlistment will not be considered as an interruption of service for selection board purposes. d. IRR Selection Boards (1) Meet the minimum eligibility requirements (i.e., TIG/TIS) and the OccFld eligibility requirements as listed on the MARADMIN (MCBul 1430) announcing the convening of the Reserve SNCO selection board (i.e., DOR, PEBD requirements). (2) Be an active participant in the Individual Ready Marine Corps Reserve and have earned at least 27 Reserve Retirement Credit Points in the anniversary year completed prior to the convening of the selection board. (3) Be serving in the IRR on the date the appropriate selection board convenes. Interruption of service for periods of less than 24 hours for the purpose of reenlistment will not be considered as an interruption of service for selection board purposes. 3. Commanders are required to notify CMC (MMPR-2) of any changes to an eligible Marine’s category/component that occur within two months preceding the convening of the Reserve SNCO Selection Board and while the board is in session. Marines considered in the wrong component will be considered erroneously selected and deleted from the list of Marines selected with the following exceptions. a. Reserve component Marines (AR, SMCR, IRR) who effect a category change to another reserve category during the selection board, will retain their selection and be promoted, if otherwise qualified, when their seniority number is reached. b. Marines who effect a component change after the selection board is adjourned will retain their selection and will be promoted, if otherwise qualified, when their seniority number is reached (USMC or USMCR). 4. Additional Information Regarding Consideration of Marines in the SMCR and the IRR. a. SMCR Marines ordered to active duty from the Reserve Component (IRR or SMCR) during time of war or national emergency will be considered in the SMCR. If directly or subsequently augmented to the regular component (USMC), they will then be considered by active component selection boards occurring after the effective date of augmentation. b. Marines assigned to Individual Mobilization Augmentation (IMA) billets, serving on Extended Active Duty (EAD), Active Duty Special Work (ADSW) or in an AR Limited Tour billet will be considered for selection in the SMCR component. c. Commanders of Marines serving in any of the above billets or categories will ensure the appropriate component codes are entered in the MCTFS. The component code should represent duty type (i.e., C4, B4) and the Reserve component code should represent the Marine’s component (IRR, SMCR). d. OccFld allocations for the IRR will be the higher of the following two calculations: (1) Ten percent of the corresponding SMCR allocations, or (2) The number allocations that were needed within the USMCR but were not allocated to the SMCR due to eligible population shortfalls within the SMCR. 5. SgtsMaj and 1stSgts are the principal enlisted advisors to their commanders. The primary and foremost requisite is outstanding leadership, combined with an exceptionally high degree of professional competence and the ability to act independently as the principal enlisted assistant to the commander in all administrative, technical, and tactical requirements of the organization. 6. MGySgts and MSgts are the technical experts in their fields. The primary prerequisite is outstanding proficiency in the assigned MOS/OccFld, combined with an exceptionally high degree of leadership and supervisory ability and the ability to act independently as enlisted assistants to the commander in all administrative, technical, and tactical requirements of their occupational specialty. 7. Selection boards are charged with selecting those Marines they consider “best and fully qualified” to hold each grade. Therefore, there will be no redesignation of those Marines selected for promotion to the grades of first sergeant or master sergeant from one grade to the other. 8. Consideration for promotion to First Sergeant a. GySgts are eligible for consideration for selection to 1stSgt based on TIG/TIS. GySgts, regardless of MOS, who meett the minimum TIG and TIS requirements for consideration to 1stSgt at the time the annual Sergeant Major through Master Sergeant Selection Board or Reserve SNCO Selection Board, as appropriate, convenes, will be reviewed to determine if they have indicated a preference for 1stSgt. Those GySgts eligible for consideration for 1stSgt who have indicated a preference for 1stSgt (with an “F”) on the most recent fitness report will compete for 1stSgt. Those GySgts eligible for consideration for 1stSgt who have indicated a preference for MSgt (with an “M”) on their most recent fitness report will be considered as not selected for 1stSgt. (Note: Marines considered for 1stSgt, but not selected, are not considered as passed over for promotion.) b. Reserve component Marines serving in the SMCR and IRR are eligible for consideration to 1stSgt based on TIG/TIS. Regardless of whether the eligible Marine has indicated a preference to 1stSgt (with an “F”) on the most recent fitness report, to be “fully qualified” for selection to 1stSgt, the Marine must be PME qualified and submit a letter of intent to the president of the Reserve SNCO Selection Board stating his or her willingness to serve in specific 1stSgt billets, prior to the convening date of the selection board, in the format shown in figure 3-2. CMC (RAP) will announce first sergeant billet vacancies via MARADMIN prior to the convening date of the selection board. Eligible Marines who do not submit a letter of intent will be considered less than “fully qualified” for promotion and not select
ed. c. To be considered competitive for selection to 1stSgt, a GySgt must generally: (1) Exhibit a strong ability to read and interpret regulations, communicate verbally and in writing, and be able to research all matters affecting personnel. (2) Have exhibited a consistent and exemplary standard of military appearance, physical fitness, and personal discipline. (3) Have demonstrated the ability to function in an independent environment or have successfully completed a tour as a drill instructor, recruiter, Marine Security Guard, or in the Marine Corps Security Force. d. To be fully qualified for selection to 1stSgt, GySgts must have completed, prior to the convening date of the selection board, the PME indicated in paragraph 3300.1d. e. GySgts selected for 1stSgt will not be considered for MSgt. f. Nonselection as a 1stSgt is not considered a failure of selection or a pass over. g. GySgts who indicate a preference for 1stSgt, but are not selected, will be considered for MSgt (if they meet the published TIG and TIS requirements in their MOS/OccFld). 9. Consideration for promotion to Master Sergeant a. GySgts who meet the TIG and TIS requirements for MSgt in their MOS/OccFld, and have not previously been selected for 1stSgt, will receive consideration for MSgt regardless of the preference indicated in their most recent fitness report. b. GySgts must have completed, prior to the convening date of the selection board, the PME requirements listed in paragraph 3300.1c. c. Failure of selection to MSgt from the promotion or above zones is considered a failure of selection or pass over. 3201. PRIOR SERVICE IN THE SAME OR HIGHER GRADE 1. Marines with satisfactory prior Marine Corps service in the same or higher grade will be considered in the below zone if their prior service reconstructed DOR meets or exceeds the below zone cutoff for their MOS/OccFld. Commanders of Marines who qualify for consideration by virtue of prior satisfactory service will ensure that the Marine understands that consideration will only be in the below zone. The Marine will not be considered in the promotion zone until the current DOR meets the promotion zone requirement. Requests for prior service consideration must be forwarded to the CMC (MMPR-2) in the format provided in figure 3-3. 2. Eligibility to receive consideration by reason of prior service in the same or higher grade is determined after receipt of the selection board convening announcement. If the Marine’s currently assigned DOR and time in service meet the below zone cutoff requirements for the MOS/OccFld, the application of prior service credit is of no benefit. 3. A request for the application of prior service credit to the current DOR assigned upon reenlistment may be granted only until the Marine is promoted to the next higher grade after reenlistment. The following restrictions apply: a. If the Marine receives the same grade and DOR held on last discharge from the Marine Corps/Marine Corps Reserve upon reenlistment, the Marine is not eligible for prior service credit. b. The service performed in the current grade or higher grade(s) in the previous enlistment(s) (USMC or USMCR) was satisfactory. Unsatisfactory service will not be included; i.e., if a Marine serves two years as a Sgt and is punitively reduced to Cpl, the service in the grade of Sgt is not considered satisfactory service. 4. If the Marine’s currently assigned DOR does not meet either the below, promotion or above zone cutoff requirements for his or her MOS/OccFld, computation of a reconstructed DOR is conducted in the following manner: a. Determine the total period of time during previous enlistments (USMC or USMCR) that the Marine served satisfactorily in the same grade, or higher grade, as that to which reappointed. b. Subtract this sum from the date of reenlistment shown on the current enlistment contract to determine the reconstructed DOR. c. Consideration for prior service in the same or higher grade may be granted when the resulting reconstructed DOR is at least equal to or senior to the DOR required for the Marine’s MOS (USMC and AR Marines) or OccFld (IRR and SMCR Marines). 5. The reconstructed DOR is only used for determining promotion eligibility. It does not change the DOR assigned in the MCTFS at the time of the Marine’s reenlistment. 6. Prior service in the same or higher grade is no longer applicable upon promotion to one grade above or reduction to at least one grade below, the grade to which appointed at the time of the reenlistment. 7. Since there are no provisions for determining eligibility for promotion consideration by reason of prior service in the same or higher grade in the MCTFS, a request must be submitted each year for such consideration if the Marine does not meet eligibility requirements by reason of the currently assigned DOR and TIS. 8. Requests received too late (after the date specified in the Marine Corps Bulletin announcing the selection board) will be filed without action and do not warrant remedial consideration for promotion. 3202. REQUESTS FOR TRANSFER TO THE FMCR OR RETIRED RESERVE. Marines who initiate requests for transfer to the FMCR or Retired Reserve (per paragraph 1203) are not eligible for consideration for promotion unless the provisions under paragraph 1203.9 are met. 3203. MEMBERS OF THE MARINE BAND. Based upon recommendations of the Director, Marine Band, promotion of enlisted members of the Marine Band (PMOS 9811) will be effected by the CMC (MMPR-2), per TIG/TIS requirements stipulated in paragraphs 1202.1, 3, and 4. Due to the unique nature of their duties, PME requirements are waived for members of the Marine Band. SECTION 3: PROFESSIONAL MILITARY EDUCATION 3300. GENERAL. Professional Military Education (PME) is an integral part of every Marine’s professional military development. Our Corps leaders of tomorrow must be educated and prepared to accept the responsibilities of small unit leaders, as well as command and staff assignments, in joint or combined arms environments. To maintain a level of military excellence, SNCOs must focus on the importance of, and actively participate in, Professional Military Education. 1. Participation in and completion of PME appropriate for their grade enhances Marines’ qualifications and competitiveness for promotion. Selection boards will consider Marines who have not completed the appropriate level PME for their grade prior to the convening date of the selection board to be less than fully qualified for selection for promotion. The following Professional Military Education Requirements apply: *a. Staff Sergeant. To be fully qualified for selection to Staff Sergeant, Sergeants must complete: (1) The Marine Noncommissioned Officer (MCI Courses in the 03.3K or earlier series) (Note: MCI Courses in the 03.3 series issued subsequent to the discontinuation of the Marine Noncommissioned Officer course do not fulfill this requirement.), or (2) The Noncommissioned Officer Basic Nonresident Program (MCI Program 7000), or (3) The Sergeants Nonresident Program/Sergeants Distance Education Program (MCI Program 8000). (4) The Sergeant Nonresident Program/Sergeans Distance Education Program (MCI Program 8010). b. Gunnery Sergeant. To be fully qualified for selection to Gunnery Sergeant, Staff Sergeants must complete the SNCO Career Nonresident Program/SNCO Career Distance Education Program (MCI Program 7100). c. Master Sergeant. To be fully qualified for selection to Master Sergeant, Gunnery Sergeants must complete: (1) The SNCO Advanced Nonresident Program/SNCO Advanced Distance Education Program (MCI Program 7200); and (2) The Warfighting Skills Program (MCI Program 7400). d. First Sergeant. To be fully qualified for selection to First Sergeant, Gunnery Sergeants must complete: (1) Either the SNCO Career Nonresident Program/SNCO Career Distance Education Program (MCI Program 7100); or The SNCO Resident Course; and (2) The SNCO Advanced Nonresident Program/SNCO Advanced Distance Education Program (MCI Program 7200); and (3) The Warfighting Skills Program (MCI Program 7400); and (4) The Staff Noncommissioned Officer Advanced Resident Course. 2. Successfu
l completion of Drill Instructor, Recruiter or Marine Security Guard school in the grades of corporal through gunnery sergeant can replace the requirement to complete resident PME courses, including the SNCO Advanced Resident course, provided the Marine has also completed the appropriate nonresident program. SECTION 4: ACCELERATED PROMOTIONS 3400. GENERAL 1. The accelerated promotion program is designed to provide selection opportunity to Sgts and SSgts who do not meet the DOR or AFADBD (USMC and AR) or PEBD (IRR/SMCR) cutoff required for consideration in the below zone. Marines recommended for accelerated promotion will be considered in the below zone with the Marines in their MOS/OccFld who met the established TIG and TIS cutoff for promotion consideration. Accelerated promotion is a form of meritorious promotion and is established to advance deserving Marines based on exceptional, noteworthy, and commendatory performance of duty over a sustained period. The performance should be of the degree which clearly merits promotion over other qualified, senior Marines being considered in the promotion zone and above zone by the selection board. a. Only those Marines whose DOR does not make them eligible for consideration by the selection board in their MOS/OccFld as announced in the Marine Corps bulletin are eligible for this program. Reporting officials must submit their recommendations per the instructions contained in MCO P1610.7 during the annual reporting period for the respective grade. Recommendations for accelerated promotion of Sgts and SSgts will be considered by the next appropriate annual selection board in the below zone. b. The selection board will consider Marines recommended for accelerated promotion on fitness reports with ending dates any time since the convening date of the last annual selection board and the current selection board’s convening date. c. No remedial action will be taken on requests when commands fail to comply with the instructions in MCO P1610.7 and the convening MARADMINs. 2. Marines will be considered for accelerated promotion solely on the basis of fitness report input. This recommendation will be strictly reserved for the Marine who is “the one above,” and who is eminently capable of immediately assuming the responsibilities of the next senior grade. Rationale for such a recommendation will be fully justified and must strictly adhere to the procedures as outlined in the current edition of MCO P1610.7. 3. Marines who are considered and not selected for accelerated promotion will not be presented to a subsequent selection board for accelerated promotion consideration unless again recommended under this program by their present commanders, or until TIG/TIS requirements are met.
Click the Link for More Information: Promotion Manual, Volume 2, Enlisted Promotions
Officer Promotions
1. There is no formal ceremonial process associated with an officer’s promotion. However, typical promotion ceremonies have evolved through tradition and practice. A standard officer promotion ceremony may be conducted in the following manner: a. The commission (promotion warrant) is read. A constructive promotion warrant may be read in the event the original promotion warrant has not been received. b. The officer reaffirms the oath from the presiding official. c. Presiding officials should be senior to the officer being promoted, if the officer being promoted reaffirms the oath. d. The officer’s new rank insignia is pinned on by individuals of the officer’s choosing. 2. The commission is not the legal authority to promote. 3. Under no circumstances will an officer be promoted prior to the effective date, regardless of what day of the week the effective date should happen to fall.
Click the Link for More Information: Marine Corps Promotion Manual, Volume 1, Officer Promotions
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Marine Corps change of commands
Change of Command Ceremony
19000. GENERAL
Changes of command in the Marine Corps shall be conducted as prescribed in this Chapter. (The term “sergeant major” will reflect either the unit sergeant major or senior enlisted representative present.)
19001. OCCASION. When practicable, the ceremony set forth below will be held upon the change of command for an organization of battalion or squadron size, or larger units and directors of schools. The ceremony is normally a parade (see chapter 17), however, it may be a review or as simple as a formation of the unit affected.
19002. FORMATION
1. The command is formed for the appropriate ceremony (e.g., unit formation, review or parade) per chapter 16 and 17. When the selected ceremony reaches the point in time when the command is presented to the outgoing commander the sequence of events for the change of command as outlined in this Chapter will be followed.
2. The color guard is normally trooped as part of the sequence of events. However, if the incoming commander is being promoted at the parade or the outgoing commander is retiring or receiving an award during the parade, the color guard marches on with the formation and the colors are brought forward for the promotion/retirement/awards portion of the ceremony.
19003. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS FOR A CHANGE OF COMMAND WITHOUT PROMOTION, RETIREMENT OR AWARDS
1. The standard sequence for a change of command normally begins after the commander of troops has presented the command to the outgoing commander. On occasion, modifications to the normal sequence can take place, such as:
a. The playing of “Honors,” (or)
b. “Trooping the Line” during a Review. Note: In these cases, the commander of troops presents the command after completion of the scenarios described above.
2. The commander of troops, having placed the command at attention and order arms, faces the reviewing area. The incoming commander then takes the designated post in the reviewing area to the left and abreast of the outgoing commander.(See figure 19-1.)
3. Commander of troops commands “Sergeant Major, Deliver the Colors to the Commanding Officer (General).”
4. The sergeant major, who is positioned to the left of the reviewing stand, moves by the most direct route to the color guard, passing the commander of troops and staff on his/her own right.
a. Upon the commander of troop’s command to the sergeant major, the color guard executes carry colors.
b. The sergeant major halts 1 pace in front of and centered on the color guard, and salutes the national colors. Once rendered, the Marine then takes one right step, while at the same time the organizational color bearer removes the organizational colors from the socket. The sergeant major grasps the organizational colors, (left hand at the base near the ferrule, right hand on the staff approximately eye level) and steps off to the right in marching.
c. The color guard remains at carry colors until the organizational colors is returned.
d. The sergeant major then marches to the reviewing area carrying the colors as close to the “carry colors” position as possible without a sling. The sergeant major passes the commander of troops and staff on his/her own right. The sergeant major halts approximately 2 paces in front of the outgoing commander. (See figure 19-1.)
5. Commander of troops commands “Present, ARMS,” as the sergeant major is approaching the staff, the commander of troops then faces the reviewing area.
6. Commander of troops commands “Staff, Present, SWORD.”
a. The staff executes. At this time the narrator will read the orders of the outgoing commander. The sergeant major then delivers the colors to the outgoing commander (the colors remaining in its most upright position), then executes one right step and salutes.
b. On the sergeant major’s salute, the outgoing and incoming commanders face each other. At this time the narrator will read the orders of the incoming commander. The outgoing commander passes the colors to the incoming commander.
c. Both commanders then face front. The sergeant major cuts his/her salute and executes one right step. The incoming commander then returns the colors to the sergeant major.
d. The outgoing and incoming commanders then face each other, exchange salutes and handshakes, and exchange positions (right shoulder to right shoulder).
e. The sergeant major then steps off to the right as in marching and returns the colors to the color guard, passing the staff on his/her right. When arriving at the color guard the sergeant major halts centered on the color guard and returns the organizational colors. The sergeant major salutes steps to the right as in marching and moves by the most direct route from the field, passing the staff on his/her own right. (See figure 19-1.)
7. Commander of troops commands “Staff, Order, SWORD,” as the sergeant major is moving to return the organizational colors, the commander of troops and staff execute. The commander of troops faces the line of troops.
8. Commander of troops commands “Order, ARMS.” The unit executes order arms and/or carry sword.
a. The color guard remains at carry colors and receives the organizational colors from the sergeant major. The color guard then executes order colors. (If honors are to be played as the next sequence, the color guard will remain at carry colors.)
b. After the sergeant major has cleared the parade field the commander of troops will face the line of troops. Note: If the incoming commander rates honors, continue with paragraph 19003.9. If the incoming commander does not rate honors continue with paragraph 19003.12. 9. Commander of troops commands “Present, ARMS.” All execute, present arms/present sword.
10. Commander of troops commands (while facing the reviewing area) “Staff, Present, SWORD.” The staff executes present sword. NARRATOR: “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, PLEASE RISE FOR HONORS TO RANK AND NAME OF COMMANDER.” (The band plays appropriate honors and gun salutes are fired.) Note: The organizational color bearer salutes on the first note and terminates on the last note (last gun) of honors. After honors are completed the narrator speaks. NARRATOR: “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, PLEASE BE SEATED.”
11. Commander of troops commands “Staff, Order, SWORD.” The commander of troops and staff execute. The commander of troops goes to carry sword and faces the line of troops.
12. Commander of troops commands “Order, ARMS” and “Parade, REST.” The unit executes. The commander of troops then faces about.
13. Commander of troops commands “Staff, Parade, REST.”
a. The staff and commander of troops execute.
b. The narrator then delivers a microphone (if available), to the outgoing commander. The commander makes remarks then passes the microphone to the incoming commander who makes his/her remarks. After the incoming commander’s remarks the microphone is retrieved. Both commanders return to their positions in the reviewing area assuming the position of attention.
Note: If the reviewing officer or the senior officer present other than the commanders desire to make remarks, they will do so prior to the outgoing and in coming commanders.
14. Commander of troops commands “Staff, ATTENTION.” The staff and commander of troops execute. The commander of troops goes to carry sword and faces the line of troops.
15. Commander of troops commands “Battalion/Squadron, ATTENTION.” The unit executes. The commander of troops then faces the reviewing area. 16. Incoming Commander Commands
a. “DISMISS THE COMMAND” (or)
b. “MARCH THE COMMAND IN REVIEW.” Note: Follow remaining parade sequence for “Dismissing the Command” or “Pass in Review” as explained in chapter 17.
19004. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS FOR A CHANGE OF COMMAND WITH PROMOTION AND/OR PRESENTATION OF AWARDS
1. If the incoming commander is to be promoted as part of the ceremony, the colors are not trooped at the beginning of the parade sequence. The sequence of events begins after the change of command and the command has been presented to the “Promoting/Awarding Official,” who is normally senior to both the incoming and outgoing commanders. After honors, if appropriate, (see paragraph 19003.9) are complete the unit is at order arms.
2. Commander of troops commands “Officer to be Promoted, and All Colors, Center, MARCH.”
a. On the preparatory command “Colors,” the staff executes carry sword. On the command “Center:”
(1) The staff executes a right face, commander of troops commands “MARCH,” the staff marches 8-10 paces, halts, and executes a left face and goes to order sword all on command of the adjutant.
(2) The color guard executes carry colors.
(3) The commander of troops (once the staff has moved), marches to a point, 10 paces in front of the color guard, halts, salutes, and executes an about face.
b. On the command of execution “MARCH:”
(1) The commander of troops and the color guard step off and march forward to a point of approximately 10 paces in front of the promoting official. The commander being promoted then takes their position in front of the colors as described for retirees in chapter 18.
(2) As the color guard passes, the staff executes carry sword, left face and returns 8-10 paces to its previous position, executes a right face, and executes order sword all on command of the adjutant. The commander of troops salutes, and reports to the reviewing officer “Sir/Ma’am, Officer(s) to be Promoted and All Colors are Present.”
3. Promoting official commands “PRESENT THE COMMAND.” The commander of troops returns to carry sword, faces to the right as in marching, while passing the colors he/she executes present sword and returns to their position in the staff. Facing the line of troops.
4. Commander of troops commands “Present, ARMS.” (Faces about and commands) “Staff, Present, SWORD.” (The command is then presented for the “National Anthem.”) After the last note;
5. After the last note, the commander of troops commands “Staff, Order, ARMS.” Commander of troops executes carry sword, faces about and commands “Order, ARMS.” Note: As an option after the promotion or award is effected the “Promoting Official” may make remarks followed by the old and new commanders. Remarks are made at this time in place of remarks immediately following the passing of the organizational colors. If this option is used the commander of troops will place the command at “Parade, REST” until after the remarks then return the command to “ATTENTION,” and follow the remainder of the sequence below.
6. After the promotion or award is presented the reviewing officer moves back to the reviewing area and the sergeant major departs the field. The commander of troops, seeing the reviewing officer back in position goes to carry sword.
7. Commander of troops commands “POST THE COLORS” and “Staff, Carry, SWORD.” The commander of troops and staff execute carry sword. The color guard executes carry colors.
8. Commander of troops commands “Staff, Right, FACE” and “Staff, Forward, MARCH.” The commander of troops and staff execute.
a. Color guard executes a countermarch and moves back to its position on line of troops, countermarches, halts and goes to order colors. (See figure 18-4.)
b. The commander of troops and staff march forward sufficiently for the colors to pass, halts, does a left face and goes to order sword. When the colors have passed the commander of troops moves the staff back to its position, halts and executes a right face and goes to order sword. However, the commander of troops faces the line of troops, remaining at carry sword. When the color guard is in position, and at order colors, the commander of troops faces the reviewing area.
9. Once the promotion or award is effected the outgoing commander takes his/her post in the reviewing area. The change of command then proceeds as described in paragraph 19003.16.
19005. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS FOR A CHANGE OF COMMAND WITH PRESENTATION OF AWARDS AND/OR RETIREMENT
1. If the outgoing commander is to receive an award and/or retire as part of the change of command ceremony, the colors are not trooped at the beginning of the parade ceremony. The sequence of events begins after the change of command and the commander of troops is facing the reviewing area. The “Retiring Official,” who is normally senior to both the incoming and outgoing commanders takes his/her post in the reviewing area.
2. Commander of troops commands “Officer(s) to be Retired, and All Colors, Center, MARCH.”
a. On the preparatory command “Colors,” the staff executes carry sword. On the command “Center:”
(1) The staff executes a right face, commander of troops commands “MARCH,” the staff marches 8-10 paces.
(2) The color guard executes carry colors.
(3) The commander of troops (once the staff has moved), marches to a point, 10 paces in front of the color guard, halts, salutes, and executes an about face.
b. On the command of execution “MARCH:”
(1) The commander of troops and the color guard step off and march forward to a point approximately 10 paces in front of the promoting official. The commander being retired then takes their position in front of the colors as described for retirees in chapter 18.
(2) As the color guard passes, the staff returns, as described in paragraph 14003.6, executes carry sword, left face and returns 8-10 paces to its previous position, and executes a right face and executes order sword. The commander of troops salutes, and reports to the reviewing officer “Sir/Ma’am, All Officers to be Retired and All Colors are Present.”
3. Reviewing officer commands “PRESENT THE COMMAND.” The commander of troops returns to carry sword, faces to the right as in marching while passing the colors he/she executes present sword and returns to their position in the staff, and facing the line of troops.
4. Commander of troops commands “Present, ARMS.” (Faces about and commands) “Staff, Present, SWORD.” (The command is then presented for the “National Anthem.”)
5. After the last note, the commander of troops commands “Staff, Order, ARMS.” Commander of troops executes carry sword, faces about and commands “Order, ARMS.”
6. The award and/or retirement is affected per the procedures in chapter 18. Note: As an option after the award or retirement is effected the “Retiring Official” may make remarks followed by the old and new commanders. Remarks are made at this time in place of remarks immediately following the passing of the organizational colors. If this option is used the commander of troops will place the command at “Parade, REST” until after the remarks then return the command to “ATTENTION,” and follow the remainder of the sequence below.
7. After the last award and/or retirement is effected the reviewing officer moves back to the reviewing area. The commander of troops, seeing the reviewing officer back in position, goes to carry sword.
8. Commander of troops commands “POST THE COLORS” and “Staff, Carry, SWORD.” The commander of troops and staff execute carry sword. The color guard executes carry colors.
9. Commander of troops commands “Staff, Right, FACE” and “Staff, Forward, MARCH.” The commander of troops and staff execute.
a. Color guard executes a countermarch and moves back to its position on the line of troops, countermarches, halts and goes to order colors. (See figure 18-4.)
b. The commander of troops and staff march forward sufficiently, as described in paragraph 14003.8b, for the colors to pass, halts, does a left face and goes to order sword. When the colors have passed the commander of troops moves the staff back to its position, halts and executes a right face and goes to order sword. However, the commander of troops faces the line of troops, remaining at carry sword. When the color guard is in position, and at order color, the commander of troops faces the reviewing area.
10. Once colors are returned to the line of troops, the outgoing and incoming commanders take their post in the reviewing area. The command is then marched in review or dismissed.
19006. HONORS FOR GENERAL OFFICERS AND HIGH RANKING CIVILIANS PARTICIPATING IN THE CHANGE OF COMMAND
1. It is not unusual for general officers and high ranking civilians to observe change of command ceremony as invited guests. Unless they are participating in the ceremony as the Promoting/Retiring Official, honors are not rendered since the outgoing and incoming commanders during their remarks recognize them. If participating the following procedures will be used.
a. When the selected ceremony reaches the point in time when the command is presented to the outgoing commander the command is instead presented to the general officer. The narrator would introduce the general officer by announcing. NARRATOR: “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, PLEASE RISE FOR HONORS TO ___________________” (e.g., The Commanding General, Second Marine Division, Major General Smith).
b. The command is presented and honors are rendered. NARRATOR: “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN PLEASE BE SEATED.”
c. The general officer returns to his/her seat in the reviewing stand.
d. The command is then placed at the order and the commander of troops faces the reviewing area. The outgoing commander then moves to their position in the reviewing area and the change of command resumes its normal sequence.
e. The change of command then proceeds as outlined in paragraph 19003.
Click the Link for More Information:Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies Manual
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Marine Corps Retirements
Once A Marine, Always A Marine!
Retirement Ceremony
*1. An appropriate retirement ceremony is to be held within the capabilities of the command for Marines retiring (includes transfer to the FMCR, TDRL, and PDRL).
*2. The commander will personally interview and discuss plans for the ceremony with the Marine.
3. While command resources vary, each command will ensure the preference of the Marine is fulfilled to the extent feasible.
4. Commanding officers should take appropriate steps to duly recognize the spouse of a retiring Marine (e.g., by the presentation of a spouse’s letter of appreciation.)
5. Refer to chapter 18 of reference (z) MCO P5060.20, Marine Corps Drill and Ceremony Manual, for information on retirement parades.
6. A retirement certificate, letters, and USMC lapel pin are provided by the CMC (MMSR) for presentation upon retirement.
7. Reference (aa) National Defense Authorization Act of 1999 directed that commanders present a United States flag to active duty Marines upon their transfer to the Fleet Marine Corps/Navy Reserve or retired list on or after 1 October 1998. Reference (ab) National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 directed that commanders present a United States flag to reserve Marines upon their transfer to the retired list awaiting pay on or after 1 October 1999. Commanders are directed to use local operating funds to procure flags (NSN 8345-00-656-1435).
Click the Link for More Information:
Separation and Retirement Manual
Sequence of Events
18003. SEQUENCE OF EVENTS FOR RETIREMENTS
1. After the command has been presented to the reviewing officer, and while the commander of troops is giving the command of “Order, ARMS,” the retirees form to the left of the reviewing stand. The retirees form in a single file at twice the normal distance so that they will be extended interval when halted in front of the reviewing officer. This allows space for their spouses to stand at their left. They march on in reverse order.
2. Commander of troops commands “Person(s) to be Retired and All Colors, Center, MARCH.” On the command “Colors,” the color guard goes to carry colors and the staff goes to carry sword.
a. On the command “Center,” the staff executes a right face.
b. On the command “MARCH,” the staff steps off and moves forward approximately 10 paces, halts, and executes a left face.
c. The commander of troops, once the staff has cleared, marches forward to the color guard, halts 10 paces in front of them, salutes the colors, and faces about.
3. Commander of troops commands “Forward, MARCH.” The commander of troops and color guard march forward towards the reviewing area. The commander of troops commands “Detachment, HALT” so that the detail is halted with the commander of troops approximately 10 paces in front of and centered on the reviewing officer. The color guard remains at the carry.
a. The adjutant commands left face and marches the staff back to its position, where the staff halts, faces the reviewing area and goes to order sword.
b. The retirees march forward, execute a column right, march to a position 5 paces in front of the color guard, halt and execute a right face. They will be at extended interval.
c. The commander of troops, once the retirees are in position, salutes the reviewing officer and reports “Sir/Ma’am, Person(s) to be Retired and All Colors are Present.” The reviewing officer returns the commander of troops’ salute.
4. Reviewing officer commands “PRESENT THE COMMAND.” The commander of troops returns to the carry, steps right in marching and moves to a position in front of the staff, saluting the colors as he/she passes them, and halts facing the line of troops.
5. Commander of troops commands “Present, ARMS.” The unit executes. The commander of troops faces the reviewing area.
6. Commander of troops then commands “Staff, Present, ARMS.” The commander of troops and staff execute present sword. NARRATOR: “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN PLEASE RISE FOR HONORS TO OUR NATIONAL COLORS.”
a. The color guard riflemen execute present arms on the command of the staff, from the carry.
b. On the first note of the “National Anthem” or “To The Color” the retirees and reviewing officer executes a hand salute and the organizational color bearer presents colors.
c. After the last note of the “National Anthem” or “To The Color” the organizational color bearer returns to the carry position. The retirees and reviewing officer terminates their salute.
7. Commander of troops commands “Staff, Order, SWORD.” The commander of troops, staff, and color guard go to the order. The commander of troops then goes to carry sword and faces the line of troops.
8. Commander of troops commands “Order, ARMS.” The unit executes. The commander of troops then faces the reviewing area and goes to order sword. NARRATOR: “LADIES AND GENTLEMEN, PLEASE BE SEATED.”
9. The reviewing officer, assisted by the sergeant major now moves forward and presents the awards, if any, and effects the retirements.
a. As the reviewing officer arrives in front of each retiree the narrator reads the award citation, if any, and the reviewing officer attaches the medal over the left breast pocket of the recipient.
b. The narrator then reads extracts from the retirement orders, (e.g., Transferred to the retired list (FMCR) after 20 years of service, Date of retirement, etc.). At this time each retiree is presented a national flag.
c. The reviewing officer then moves to the next retiree by stepping to the left in marching, taking approximately 1 1/2 steps, halts and faces the next recipient. After the last retirement has been effected, the reviewing officer moves back to the reviewing area and the sergeant major departs the field. (If spouses are to be recognized the sergeant major will remain and assist the reviewing officer). If spouses are not recognized the reviewing officer followed by the retirees may make remarks.
10. Once the last retirement order is read and if there will be recognition of the spouses and remarks by the reviewing officer and retirees, the commander of troops will come to the carry, face about and order parade rest. The commander of troops will then face about and give the staff parade rest.
11. Marines assigned to do so, now escort the spouses of the retirees to the left of their husband/wife, and stand behind the spouse they escorted.
a. The narrator then reads the spouses citation (Optional).
b. After all spouses have been recognized the Marines assigned as escorts will return the spouses to their seats.
c. At this time the reviewing officer moves back to the reviewing area and the sergeant major departs the field. The reviewing officer followed by the retirees may make remarks at this time.
d. Once all remarks have been made the reviewing officer returns to the designated position in the reviewing area.
e. The commander of troops, seeing the reviewing officer back in position, comes to attention, and goes to carry sword.
12. Commander of troops commands “Staff, ATTENTION,” faces about and commands “(Size of Unit), ATTENTION.” Commander of troops faces about and commands “POST THE COLORS” and “Staff, Carry, SWORD.” The commander of troops and staff execute carry swords. The color guard executes carry colors.
13. Commander of troops commands “Staff, Right, FACE” and “Staff, Forward, MARCH.” The commander of troops and staff execute.
a. Color guard executes a countermarch and moves back to its position in formation, countermarches, halts and goes to order color.
b. The commander of troops and staff march forward sufficiently as prescribed in paragraph 14003.4c through 14003.4f for the colors to pass, halts, does a left face and goes to order sword. When the colors have passed the commander of troops moves the staff back to its position, halts and executes a right face and goes to order sword. However, the commander of troops faces the line of troops, remaining at carry sword. When the color guard is in position, and at order colors, the commander of troops faces the reviewing area.
c. The retirees on command of the commander of troops march to their position in the reviewing area, and form a line at normal interval, to the left of the reviewing officer.
20. The ceremony would then continue as prescribed for a review (see chapter 16), a parade (see chapter 17) or unit formation. (e.g., the command be marched in review, dismissed, etc.)
Click the Link for More Information:
Marine Corps Drill and Ceremonies Manual
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Marine Corps Funerals
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