Sergeants Major unite aboard Depot

19 Jul 2002 | Cpl. Christopher A. Raper Marine Corps Recruiting Command

Wisdom and experience over ran the Depot July 12-14 as sergeants major from across the West Coast gathered to renew old bonds and share a few tales at the 2002 West Coast Sergeants Major Reunion.

"Nine years ago some of the sergeants major on the West Coast decided they wanted to have a reunion here to mimic the one in Quantico," said Sgt. Maj. Bruce A. Mackamul, sergeant major, Marine Corps Recruit Depot, San Diego, and the Western Recruiting Region.  "They wanted to get together locally to tell sea stories and renew old acquaintances."

Active duty sergeants major joined retired sergeants major for a weekend get together to enjoy some good fellowship.

"I came to the reunion for a get together with the old timers," said Sgt. Maj. (ret) William L. F. Wood.  "It brings us all together for a little camaraderie."

"As the sergeant major, it is hard to have someone around to associate with because you are the top enlisted Marine for the unit," said Mackamul.  "The reunion gets all of the big wigs together to share ideas.  Everyone here is on the same level."

This year's reunion was visited by a special guest, the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps.

"It isn't customary for the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps to be able to attend the West Coast reunion," said Sgt. Maj. Alford L. McMichael.  "It is a great pleasure and delight for me to be able to attend this function.  It gives us a chance to talk to so many of the legends that have paved the way for the sergeants major of today."

The weekend kicked off with a welcome aboard at the Bay View Restaurant.  Following breakfast, the sergeants major made their way over to the general's building to attend morning colors and then recruit graduation.

The group toured the Command Museum after attending the graduation ceremony, and then it was off to the golf course for 18 holes.

Junior enlisted had the chance to see the sergeants major at play as they enjoyed a Bay View happy hour celebration closing out their first day aboard the Depot.

"We have the celebration to keep the camaraderie between the active and retired sergeants major," said Sgt. Maj. Bruce A. Craig, sergeant major, Recruit Training Regiment.

On Saturday, the sergeants major enjoyed an afternoon of picnicking by the Depot Boat House completing the reunion celebration.
Marine Corps Recruiting Command