Marine Corps Base Quantico -- “When you’re tired and struggling to continue on, you’re lifted up and put on the shoulders of giants,” said Marine Corps Combat Development Command Sgt. Maj. Gary W. Weiser. Weiser said his final farewells to his friends and colleagues at the relief and appointment ceremony in Little Hall theatre.
The ceremony began with Lt. Gen. Kenneth J. Glueck, Jr. honoring the work and time that Weiser served. “He’s a warrior, leader and a mentor. He is a consistent educator and every element of his work made noticeable impact to our base.”
After retirement, Weiser plans to finish his master’s degree and continue his life as an educator by become a history professor in Las Vegas.
Glueck continued, “Weiser was always insightful and had the betterment of Marines in his heart. He made monumental differences in our education at MCCDC. As a result of his efforts, Marines will be better prepared for future crises.”
After Glueck’s remarks, Sgt. Maj. David L. Jobe spoke briefly about his posting as the new MCCDC Sgt. Maj. “Thank you for welcoming me to the team and I’m excited about what the future holds,” Jobe said.
The ceremony went on with Weiser receiving several awards, including the Legion of Merit medal. Upon being presented with the award, Weiser stated, “I wouldn’t call this an individual award, but a unit award. In my 32 years of service, I can describe my entire career in one word, humble.”
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of the flag and final remarks by Weiser. “This will be my last time wearing the uniform and speaking to an audience. Many question what the pursuit of happiness means, I believe it’s the pursuit of virtue. I believe it means living as a good human being with integrity among your fellow citizens.”