U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Rhonda C. Martin, the assistant chief of staff manpower, poses for a photo at the Gray Research Center on Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Sept. 11, 2025. Martin is currently the longest serving active-duty Marine. She spent over 40 years in the Marine Corps, during her first 14 years she served as an enlisted Marine and reached the rank of staff sergeant before she decided to become an officer. With her decades of service, she witnessed and experienced key changes in the structure of the Corps as it relates to women Marines. She enlisted in 1984, a time where women Marines weren’t allowed to wield rifles or qualify on the range, and she was an advocate for change throughout her time in the Corps. Coming full circle, in 2016, she witnessed women officially serve in combat roles when the policy was enacted. Martin explained that she never intended to stay in the Marine Corps for 41 years. Her goals were set for three years at a time or by duty station, but there was always an opportunity that came along which kept her from exiting the Marine Corps. “I would not be here if it weren't for the Marines, Sailors, and civilians that I have worked with over the years,” Martin said humbly. “Sharing my experiences with next generation Marines has always been a motivator to stick around. I love the Marine Corps, so it will be a bittersweet day to retire; however, I am confident that those behind me will continue to serve honorably and make us all proud.” (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Harleigh Faulk)