MOS 09 Training
0911 Sergeant Instructor, OCS
MERITORIOUS SERVICE AS ASSISTANT MARINE OFFICER INSTRUCTOR AT THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO NAVAL RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS UNIT FROM 20 MARCH 2023 TO 1 MAY 2026. DURING THIS PERIOD, GUNNERY SERGEANT POLANCO DISTINGUISHED HIMSELF BY EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP, MENTORSHIP, AND DEDICATION TO OFFICER DEVELOPMENT. AFTER HIS COMPLETION OF TWO INCREMENTS AS A SERGEANT INSTRUCTOR AT OFFICER CANDIDATES SCHOOL, HE PROVIDED PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE AND TRAINING TO MORE THAN 60 MIDSHIPMEN, DIRECTLY CONTRIBUTING TO 20 EARNING THEIR COMMISSIONS IN THE NAVY OR MARINE CORPS. HIS LEADERSHIP WITHIN BULLDOG PLATOON OVER SIX SEMESTERS RESULTED IN A 100 PERCENT PASS RATE AT OFFICER CANDIDATES SCHOOL AND THE COMMISSIONING OF SEVEN SECOND LIEUETENANTS. INSTRUMENTAL IN EXECUTING OVER 200 HOURS OF BATTALION TRAINING, FIVE FIELD EXERCISES, AND MULTIPLE VETERANS AFFAIRS VOLUNTEER EVENTS AND FORMAL CEREMONIALS, HIS LEADERSHIP HAS LEFT AN INDELIBLE MARK ON THE UNIVERSITY OF NEW MEXICO NAVAL ROTC UNIT. GUNNERY SERGEANT POLANCO'S INITIATIVE, PERSERVERANCE, AND DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT ON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
0913 INSTRUCTOR, EWTG, Pacific
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS INSTRUCTOR, EXPEDITIONARY WARFARE TRAINING GROUP, PACIFIC, FROM AUGUST 2023 TO JULY 2025. SERGEANT CEBALLOSREYES CONDUCTED FOUR COMBAT RUBBER RECONNAISSANCE CRAFT REPAIR COURSES, QUALIFYING 55 MARINES AND TRAINING FOUR INFANTRY BATTALIONS FOR DEPLOYMENT. HE COMPLETED OVER ONE HUNDRED CORRECTIVE SERVICE REQUESTS, WHILE MAINTAINING A 96 PERCENT DIVISIONAL READINESS RATE. HE REQUISITIONED 57,000 DOLLARS IN PARTS FOR SIX HIGH-RISK TRAINING COURSES, MANAGED $1.2 MILLION IN EQUIPMENT, AND OVERSAW THE TRANSFER OF 23 CRAFTS WORTH 386,000 DOLLARS. HIS PERFORMANCE DURING THE FIELD SUPPLY AND MAINTENANCE ANALYSIS INSPECTION EARNED EXEMPLARY REMARKS, CONFIRMING ONE HUNDRED PERCENT MISSION READINESS. SERGEANT CEBALLOSREYES' EXCEPTIONAL PROFESSIONALISM, UNRELENTING PERSEVERANCE, AND DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT ON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
MOS 0931/0933
-Assisted in the investigation of 40+ vehicle accidents and ensured units provide all required reports to higher in a timely manner which made the camp Pendleton AOE a more safe environment for personal.
-Inspected and supervised more than 200+ tactical convoys consisting of over 3,000 vehicles prior to off-base movements which resulted in proper safety and support for 1st mar div.
-Escorted 180+ convoys between Camp Pendleton, 29 Palms, and Yuma training areas which resulted in combat effectiveness for 1st mar div.
-Issued and recorded over 80+ citations to units throughout I MEF.
-Ran and supervised 6 Combat Marksmanship Coach, and 6 Combat Marksmanship Trainer courses which resulted in 240+ Marines gaining the 0933 MOS, and 90+ students gaining the 0931 MOS
MOS 0941 Cold Weather Instructor
Staff Sergeant Angel distinguished himself as a premier Cold Weather Instructor. He masterfully orchestrated and executed a comprehensive arctic survival course for 93 Marines across three geographically dispersed locations, directly ensuring their combat effectiveness in an austere environment. Senior Watch Chief, Staff Sergeant Angel demonstrated exceptional leadership and technical acumen. He expertly managed communications across three geographically distinct locations, providing the commanding officer with flawless situational awareness of all networks, data, and transmission systems supporting the Aviation Combat Element (ACE). served as the Transmissions Chief for the ACE and Transmissions Chief amongst the five geographically isolated locations. As the Transmissions Chief for the ACE, Staff Sergeant Angel flawlessly maintained the single-channel radio (SCR) backbone essential for seamless fail over in the event of total loss of the network for the entirety of the ACE and its Commanding Officer to communicate with the Marine Air Ground Task Force (MAGTF).
MOS 0941 Cold Weather Instructor
Sergeant Aubron J. Thomas is enthusiastically recommended for the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal for outstanding service while serving as the Cold Weather Instructor for Company B, Marine Wing Communications Squadron 28 (MWCS-28) from January 2026 to March 2026, as well as Assistant Maintenance Chief for Cold Response 26. Through superior leadership, superb devotion, and professionalism, Sergeant Thomas's limitless contributions led to the success of Company B, MWCS-28, and ultimately Marine Air Control Group 28 (MACG-28).
During Cold Response 2026, Sergeant Thomas served as a Cold Weather Instructor, He was responsible for planning, coordinating, and evaluating training for 51 Security Force Marines across 3 geographically isolated locations in the skills needed to survive in the austere environment of the arctic. He coordinated all necessary training supplies with allied national forces to ensure a seamless training continuum for his Marines. He was responsible for a 14 training day course consisting of break through Ice drill, and other course requirements. Sergeant Thomas's dedication to duty and perseverance facilitated the continued success of MCRD PI recruit training during a global pandemic.
Concurrent with his Cold Weather Instructor duties, Sergeant Thomas was assigned as the Assistant Maintenance Chief for Company B. Sergeant Thomas used his technical expertise to provide timely troubleshooting and repair of essential C2 equipment necessary for. In the absence of necessary specific diagnostic equipment, Sergeant Thomas manufactured a field expedient equivalent with limited resources allowing circuit analysis and locating a failed component, which he was able to remove and repair.
Sergeant Thomas' initiative, technical competence, and leadership under pressure significantly contributed to the overall success of the team and exemplified a level of performance well above his rank. He held a variety of billets that encompassed several operational aspects of the Marine Corps, demonstrating his versatility as a leader. He consistently maintained the highest standards for himself and his Marines. Sergeant Thomas' superior performance of duty reflected great credit upon him and were in keeping with the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and United States Naval Service. He is highly recommended for the Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal.
0944 Instructor, Mountain Warfare Training Center
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS INSTRUCTOR, MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER FROM SEPTEMBER 2022 TO OCTOBER 2025. STAFF SERGEANT COCHRAN MADE INVALUABLE CONTRIBUTIONS TO SEVEN MOUNTAIN LEADERS COURSES AND THREE SERVICE-LEVEL TRAINING EXERCISES, EFFECTIVELY INSTRUCTING 148 SUMMER MOUNTAIN LEADERS, 110 WINTER MOUNTAIN LEADERS, AND TRAINING MORE THAN 600 PERSONNEL FROM ACROSS THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS, JOINT FORCE, AND PARTNER NATIONS. HE REPRESENTED THE MARINE CORPS IN EXERCISE FIRST PITCH IN ENGLAND AS A SUBJECT MATTER EXPERT IN MILITARY MOUNTAINEERING, LEADING 120 HOURS OF INSTRUCTION ON MOUNTAIN SPECIFIC TACTICAL TRAINING PROCEDURES. HIS EFFORTS ENSURED THE OPERATIONAL CAPABILITY OF MARINES AND PARTNER FORCES IN THE MOST AUSTERE ENVIRONMENTS. HIS DEDICATION TO TACTICS AND PASSION FOR MILITARY MOUNTAINEERING SIGNIFICANTLY INFLUENCED INSTRUCTOR DEVELOPMENT THROUGH CONSTANT COUNSELING, MENTORSHIP, AND TRAINING OF PEER INSTRUCTORS. STAFF SERGEANT COCHRAN'S PROFESSIONALISM, PERSEVERANCE, AND DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT ON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
Horsemanship Chief Instructor
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS SPECIAL OPERATING FORCES HORSEMANSHIP CHIEF INSTRUCTOR, MARINE CORPS MOUNTAIN WARFARE TRAINING CENTER, FROM OCTOBER 2020 TO JULY 2021. AS ONE OF THE THREE CHIEF INSTRUCTORS IN COMBAT SERVICE SUPPORT COMPANY, SERGEANT GREENWALT PLAYED A CRITICAL ROLE IN THE SUCCESS OF THE COURSES, DRAWING UPON HIS EXPERTISE IN HORSEMANSHIP. HE SUCCESSFULLY LED MORE THAN 64 STUDENTS IN PROPER EMPLOYMENT OF EQUINE IN EXTREMELY HAZARDOUS AND DEMANDING TERRAIN THROUGH MOUNTAIN OPERATIONS. SERGEANT GREENWALT FOSTERED A CULTURE OF PHYSICAL AND MENTAL TOUGHNESS AS HIS STUDENTS FLAWLESSLY CONDUCTED FINAL EXERCISES, COVERING OVER 100 KILOMETERS WITH EQUINE AT ELEVATIONS IN EXCESS OF 9,000 FEET. HE SET THE STANDARD FOR NON-COMMISSIONED OFFICER LEADERSHIP AND HIS STUDENTS COMPLETED ALL OPERATIONS WITHOUT LOSING A STUDENT. SERGEANT GREENWALT'S EXCEPTIONAL PROFESSIONALISM, UNRELENTING PERSERVERANCE AND LOYAL DEVOTION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
0951 Formal School Instructor
CPL GENARO EXHIBITED INITIATIVE AND RESOLVE, SPENDING MORE THAN 200 HOURS EXPLOITING THE DETAILED FEATURES OF THE MICROSOFT OFFICE SUITE AND DEVELOPING A TRAINING MANAGEMENT SYSTEM THAT WOULD SUPPORT SCHEDULING, TRACKING, AND REPORTING OF ALL AREAS RELATED TO THE GLOBAL COMBAT SUPPORT SYSTEM - MARINE CORPS IMPLEMENTATION TRAINING THAT NOW CONTAINS OVER 5,000 REGISTERED STUDENTS. CORPORAL GENARO'S ENTHUSIASM NEVER WAVERED WHILE SIMULTANEOUSLY MEETING HIS RESPONSIBILITIES FOR SUPPORTING A 22 INSTRUCTOR STAFF ACROSS 43 CLASSROOM LOCATIONS IN OKINAWA, MAINLAND JAPAN, AND HAWAII, THROUGHOUT THE IMPLEMENTATION. IN ADDITION, CPL GENARO VOLUNTEERED WITH THE MCCS YOUTH SPORTS PROGRAM, SERVING AS HEAD COACH. CPL GENARO'S UNMATCHED COMMITMENT, DEVOTION TO DUTY, AND SUPPORT OF THE COMMUNITY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS AND NAVAL SERVICE.
0951 Formal School Instructor
MERITORIOUS SERVICE WHILE SERVING AS A FORMAL SCHOOLS INSTRUCTOR WITH AUTOMOTIVE MAINTENANCE TECHNICIAN BASIC COURSE, FOR MOTOR TRANSPORTATION MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTIONAL COMPANY, LOGISTICS OPERATIONS SCHOOL, CAMP JOHNSON, NORTH CAROLINA FROM SEPTEMBER 2016 TO OCTOBER 2019. DURING THIS PERIOD, SERGEANT GRIMALDI PERFORMED HIS DUTIES IN AN EXEMPLARY AND HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL MANNER. THROUGH HIS TECHNICAL EXPERTISE AND UNQUESTIONED VERACITY, HE DEVOTED OVER 978 HOURS OF PLATFORM INSTRUCTION, PRACTICAL APPLICATION, AND UNCOMPROMISED PERFORMANCE EVALUATION TO MORE THAN 1,750 ENTRY LEVEL MARINES DURING THEIR INITIAL MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY SCHOOL ALL THE WHILE WORKING TIRELESSLY WITH SKILLFUL INITIATIVE SERGEANT GRIMALDI MAINTAINED IN EXCESS OF 1,000,000 DOLLARS OF VALUABLE MISSION ESSENTIAL TRAINING ASSETS, 11,759.00 DOLLARS IN DEMAND STOCK CONSUMABLE INVENTORIES, AND VOLUNTEERING AS THE LOGISTICS OPERATIONS SCHOOL'S NAVY AND MARINE CORPS RELIEF SOCIETY REPRESENTATIVE EFFICIENTLY COLLECTING CONTRIBUTIONS TOTALING OVER 9,000 DOLLARS IN DONATIONS THROUGH PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATION WITH 373 MARINES. ADDITIONALLY SERVING OUTSIDE OF HIS PRIMARILY ASSIGNED DUTY OF A MOTOR TRANSPORT MAINTENANCE INSTRUCTOR, SGT GRIMALDI EARNED A SECONDARY AND THIRD MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY OF COMBAT MARKSMANSHIP COACH AND COMBAT MARKSMANSHIP COACH TRAINER. DURING HIS TIME AS CHIEF INSTRUCTOR WITH COMBAT MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING UNIT, WEAPONS TRAINING BATTALION SGT GRIMALDI MENTORED 44 STUDENTS TO THE 0931 MILITARY OCCUPATIONAL SPECIALTY, ACTED AS RANGE OFFICER IN CHARGE ON 2 LIVE FIRE RANGES, AS WELL AS RANGE SAFETY OFFICER ON 8 MISHAP FREE LIVE FIRE RANGES TO INCLUDE 3 AS THE LASER RANGE SAFETY OFFICER, CULMINATING IN THE OVERALL TRAINING OF 271 HIGHLY EFFECTIVE COMBAT MARKSMANSHIP TRAINED MARINES. BECAUSE OF HIS METICULOUS EFFORTS AND UNRELENTING RESOURCEFULNESS, HE DEVELOPED A STERLING REPUTATION AS A CONSUMMATE PROFESSIONAL WHO EARNED RESPECT AND THE ADMIRATION BY ALL HE SERVED. SERGEANT GRIMALDI'S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED GREAT CREDIT UPON HIMSELF AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
0961 Formal School Instructor
MERITORIOUS SERVICE WHILE SERVING AS A LEADERSHIP AND WARFIGHTING INSTRUCTOR, SCHOOL CHIEF, AND STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER IN CHARGE, STAFF NONCOMMISSIONED OFFICER ACADEMY HAWAII, MARINE CORPS UNIVERSITY, EDUCATION COMMAND FROM MAY 2023 TO JUNE 2026. GUNNERY SERGEANT BRAGG DEDICATED 975 HOURS OF PLATFORM INSTRUCTION AND SQUAD GROUP LESSON FACILITATION TO 678 STUDENTS ACROSS 19 SERGEANTS SCHOOL ITERATIONS. HE WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT OF FIVE INSTRUCTORS, MENTORING THEM THROUGH 29 LEADERSHIP AND WARFIGHTING INSTRUCTOR PROGRAM MILESTONES RESULTING IN THEIR PROGRAM ADVANCEMENT TO JUNIOR AND SENIOR INSTRUCTOR. GUNNERY SERGEANT BRAGG'S ACUMEN WAS SHOWCASED BY HIS STEPPING IN AS THE ACADEMICS OFFICER DURING A CRUCIAL TIME, NAVIGATING A COMPLETE CURRICULUM REFORM FOR SERGEANTS SCHOOL. HE ALSO FACILITATED TRAINING FOR THE UNIVERSITY OF HAWAII NAVAL RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS, TWO CORPORALS' COURSES, AND THREE COMMUNICATION SKILLS ENHANCEMENT PROGRAMS, POSITIVELY EXTENDING HIS IMPACT BEYOND THE ACADEMY. GUNNERY SERGEANT BRAGG'S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT ON HIM AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
Instructor, Communication-Electronics School
WHILE SERVING AS AN INSTRUCTOR, RADIO MAINTENANCE TRAINING SECTION, COMPANY A, AIR CONTROL TRAINING SQUADRON, MARINE CORPS COMMUNICATION-ELECTRONICS SCHOOL, TRAINING COMMAND, TWENTYNINE PALMS, CALIFORNIA FROM MARCH 2020 TO SEPTEMBER 2021. STAFF SERGEANT CANTU DEMONSTRATED COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION BY OBTAINING A MASTER INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION AND ENHANCING HIS ABILITY TO DELIVER FIRST-RATE TRAINING. HE AMASSED OVER 630 HOURS OF INSTRUCTION, RECEIVED SEVEN FORMAL WRITTEN AND VIDEO EVALUATIONS, MENTORED FIVE INSTRUCTORS IN THEIR PROGRESS TOWARDS THEIR NEXT INSTRUCTOR CERTIFICATION, AND COMPLETED ALL REQUIRED ELECTIVES. STAFF SERGEANT CANTU'S MENTORSHIP HAS BUILT A BEST PRACTICE MINDSET, AND CREATED THE FOUNDATION FROM WHICH WORLD CLASS ACADEMICS CAN BE TAUGHT. HIS ABILITY TO DELIVER COMPREHENSIVE AND EFFICIENT INSTRUCTION ENSURED MISSION ACCOMPLISHMENT AND ENSURED THAT MARINES RECEIVED THE HIGHEST QUALITY TRAINING POSSIBLE BEFORE ENTERING INTO THE FLEET MARINE FORCE. STAFF SERGEANT CANTU'S PERFORMANCE AND DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIMSELF AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
0961 Faculty Advisor
PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS THE FACULTY ADVISOR, DETACHMENT 1, COMBAT LOGISTICS BATTALION 453, COMBAT LOGISTICS REGIMENT 4, FROM 10 JULY 2015 TO 26 JULY 2015 IN SUPPORT OF CORPORALS COURSE 361-15. DURING THIS PERIOD, SERGEANT GRAY PERFORMED HIS DUTIES IN AN EXEMPLARY AND HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL MANNER, ENSURING 24 CORPORALS RECEIVED THE REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND TRAINING TO BECOME PME COMPLETE, RESULTING IN A 100% PASSING RATE, WITH A CUMULATIVE COURSE GPA OF 87.85%. AFTER THE CHIEF INSTRUCTOR HAD TO LEAVE EARLY, SERGEANT GRAY WORKED RIGOROUSLY, DELIVERING 89 HOURS OF LECTURES, GUIDED DISCUSSIONS, SWORD MANUAL, STUDENT TESTING AND OUTSIDE THE BOX PRACTICAL APPLICATIONS TO DELIVER THE MOST REALISTIC TRAINING POSSIBLE, EXCEEDING EXPECTATIONS. HIS DIRECT SUPERVISION AND MENTORSHIP TO EIGHT CORPORALS IN HIS ORIGINAL ASSIGNED GROUP RESULTED IN THEM ACHIEVING THE HIGHEST CUMULATIVE GPA OF 91.75%, WITH FOUR OF HIS MARINES SCORING THE HIGHEST IN THE COURSE AND ONE BEING THE HONOR GRADUATE. SERGEANT GRAY'S INITIATIVE, PERSEVERANCE, AND TOTAL DEDICATION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIMSELF AND UPHELD THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
0961 Instructor, Staff NCO Academy
Master Sergeant Cord E. Burgan is enthusiastically recommended for the Meritorious Service Medal for outstanding meritorious service while serving as an Instructor and Faculty Advisor, Staff Noncommissioned Officers Academy, Quantico, Virginia, from July 2023 to December 2025. During this period, Master Sergeant Burgan distinguished himself through exceptional initiative, sustained professionalism, and superior instructional expertise. His conduct and performance reflected his extensive experience in the Marine Corps, earning him widespread respect for his loyalty, high standards, and unwavering commitment to excellence. His ability to inspire and educate Marines, Airmen, and allied partners has left an indelible mark on the Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) program.
Upon his arrival at the Staff Noncommissioned Officers Academy, Master Sergeant Burgan was assigned as an Instructor for the Advanced School for 18 months while concurrently serving on the Sergeants School staff during off cycles. He concluded his final 12 months with the newly established SNCO Leadership School (SLS). During his tenure, he completed eight active component and six reserve component student classes, personally leading and mentoring 29 sergeants, 23 staff sergeants, 93 gunnery sergeants, four Air Force master sergeants, one senior master sergeant, and six Croatian students across three EPME schools: Sergeants School, Advanced School, and SNCO Leadership School. He instructed over 442 Marines, Airmen, and allied partners in leadership principles grounded in Marine Corps doctrine and the warrior ethos, fostering confidence, competence, and readiness for future operational challenges. Master Sergeant Burgan certified and instructed 13 classes across all pillars, including leadership, warfighting, communication, profession of arms, and capstone, amassing over 1,500 hours of classroom instruction, guided discussions, demonstrations as a subject matter expert, and student evaluations. His ability to convey complex concepts with clarity and enthusiasm ensured students were well-prepared to lead in dynamic and high-stakes environments.
Master Sergeant Burgan demonstrated exceptional instructional excellence by integrating wargaming into the Marine Corps Planning Process (MCPP) evaluation in response to a Discrepancy Correction Request (DCR). At the SNCOA Advanced School, he skillfully merged doctrinal planning with adaptive thinking against a thinking enemy, emphasizing Marine Corps warfighting publications and joint integration in multidomain scenarios. This innovative approach enabled students to develop refined planning products, significantly enhancing their operational readiness and ability to navigate complex battlefield scenarios. Additionally, he designed and executed a faculty development session to elevate instructors' knowledge and meet academic progression requirements. The session's content and methodology, praised for their practicality and impact, are now under consideration as a baseline for preparing and sustaining future Leadership and Warfighting Instructors (LWI) within the College of Enlisted Military Education (CEME). This contribution has directly strengthened the institutional capacity to train, mentor, and inspire enlisted leaders across the Marine Corps.
Master Sergeant Burgan transformed the unit readiness lesson plan for the Sergeants School pilot course into a dynamic and practical presentation, creating a scalable framework for implementation across all EPME academies. By connecting doctrinal guidance with the Sergeant's role in utilizing tools such as the Marine Corps Training Information Management System (MCTIMS), training and readiness manuals, and unit training modules, he developed an adaptable model for small unit leadership. His instruction emphasized planning and delivering technical and adaptive training aligned with the commander's intent, fostering creativity, threat awareness, and intentional leadership. This product not only enhances comprehension at Sergeants School but also establishes a repeatable model for cultivating cohesive, combat-ready units. His efforts have set a new standard for how sergeants are trained to integrate education, training, and readiness management, ensuring they are equipped to lead effectively in diverse operational environments.
As a dynamic educator, Master Sergeant Burgan represented the SNCO Academy and Marine Corps University as the sole enlisted keynote speaker at the 2025 Modern Day Marine Exposition. His visionary address on the future of Enlisted Professional Military Education (EPME) to an audience of general officers, senior enlisted leaders, defense industry experts, and academic professionals advanced awareness of EPME modernization efforts and underscored the critical role of enlisted leadership development in shaping the future force. His poised and articulate presentation distinguished him among his peers and positioned him as a respected ambassador of the Marine Corps' professional military education enterprise. Feedback from attendees highlighted his ability to bridge strategic vision with practical application, further solidifying his reputation as an enlisted thought leader.
Beyond his instructional duties, Master Sergeant Burgan excelled as a certified Equal Opportunity Coordinator and Operational Stress Control and Readiness (OSCAR) Master Trainer, personally training 96 team members in resilience and leadership under stress. Hand-selected by the Marine Corps' Combat and Operational Stress Control (COSC) Program Section Head, he served as a featured speaker and lead trainer at the inaugural Enhanced OSCAR Training event. His presentation on stress management, delivered to an audience that included the Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps, a Medal of Honor recipient, senior enlisted leaders, and civilian professionals, advanced the Marine Corps' efforts to strengthen force preservation and resilience education. His performance established him as a trusted advocate for Marine Corps Total Fitness (MCTF) and a respected ambassador of the SNCO Academy. Additionally, Master Sergeant Burgan's mentorship extended beyond the classroom through his volunteer work with local youth programs, where he incorporated real-world lessons into his instruction, enriching the learning experience for students and fostering their professional growth.
Master Sergeant Burgan's impact extended to curriculum development, where he reviewed and refined over 15 lesson plans, ensuring alignment with evolving Marine Corps priorities and operational requirements. His meticulous attention to detail and ability to anticipate the needs of students and instructors alike resulted in course materials that were both relevant and forward-thinking. He consistently sought student and peer feedback to refine his instructional techniques, demonstrating a commitment to continuous improvement. His ability to adapt his teaching style to diverse audiences, including international and sister service students, ensured that all learners were engaged and empowered to succeed. His dedication was evident in the countless hours he spent outside regular duty hours, mentoring students and preparing course materials to ensure the highest quality of instruction.
Throughout his tenure, Master Sergeant Burgan displayed qualities that warrant roles of greater responsibility. He frequently assumed leadership roles in the absence of senior staff, seamlessly managing course operations and coordinating professional military education events for academy staff. His ability to balance multiple responsibilities while maintaining a positive and professional demeanor set a powerful example for students and peers alike. Students consistently praised him in end-of-course critiques for his approachability, expertise, and ability to inspire confidence, often seeking his guidance long after graduation. His mentorship has directly contributed to the professional success of countless Marines and allied partners, many of whom have gone on to excel in leadership roles across the Marine Corps and joint forces.
Master Sergeant Burgan's professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to developing enlisted leaders have left a lasting impact on the Staff Noncommissioned Officers Academy. His inspiration, leadership, and instructional proficiency reflect credit upon him and uphold the highest traditions of the Marine Corps and the United States Naval Service. His contributions to curriculum development, faculty training, and resilience education have set a new benchmark for excellence in enlisted professional military education, ensuring that future generations of Marines are prepared to lead with competence and conviction.
Marine Officer Instructor
FOR PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES WHILE SERVING AS MARINE OFFICER INSTRUCTOR, SOUTHERN UNIVERSITY NAVAL RESERVE OFFICERS TRAINING CORPS UNIT, BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, FROM MAY 2023 TO JUNE 2026. CAPTAIN CHRISTIAN W. CARTHEN PROVIDED EXCEPTIONAL LEADERSHIP AND MENTORSHIP DIRECTLY STRENGTHENING THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND COMMISSIONING READINESS OF OVER 65 NAVY- AND MARINE-OPTION MIDSHIPMEN. SERVING CONCURRENTLY AS INTERIM EXECUTIVE OFFICER, HE EXPERTLY SYNCHRONIZED ADMINISTRATION, TRAINING, COMPLIANCE, AND OPERATIONS, SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVING COMMAND EFFECTIVENESS. THROUGH INNOVATIVE THINKING AND INITIATIVE, HE DEVELOPED AN AGENTIC TACTICAL DECISION GAME AND DECISION-FORCE CASE APPLICATION, ENABLING THE CREATION OF A NAVAL SERVICE TRAINING COMMAND DOD-LEARN MODULE THAT MODERNIZED DECISION-MAKING INSTRUCTION ACROSS THE NROTC ENTERPRISE. CAPTAIN CARTHEN'S SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE, PROFESSIONALISM, AND DEVOTION TO DUTY WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE UNITED STATES MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
Midshipman First Sergeant
FOR PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT IN THE SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE OF HIS DUTIES AS MIDSHIPMAN FIRST SERGEANT. MIDSHIPMAN MENDOZA'S COURAGEOUSLY PERFORMED HIS DUTIES DURING THE FALL SEMESTER OF 2015, AUGUST TWENTY FOURTH TWO THOUSAND AND FIFTEEN THROUGH DECEMBER FOURTEENTH TWO THOUSAND AND FIFTEEN. DURING THE SEMESTER, MIDSHIPMAN MENDOZA LEAD FROM THE FRONT AND ENSURED THE CARE AND EXEMPLARY PERFORMANCE OF ALL PRAIRIE VIEW MIDSHIPMEN. MENDOZA FACILITATED THE USE OF THE PHONE APPLICATION "GROUPME" WITHIN THE ENTIRE PRAIRIE VIEW NROTC UNIT. IMPLEMENTING THIS NEW AND EFFECTIVE METHOD OF COMMUNICATION, HE ENSURED THE ACCOUNTABILITY OF ALL FIFTY SEVEN MIDSHIPMEN AT EVERY UNIT FUNCTION IN A TIMELY MANNER. MIDSHIPMAN MENDOZA FACILITATED THE NEW UNIFORM STANDARDS AND ENSURED ALL 57 MIDSHIPMEN APPEARED IN SHARP CONDITION FOR THE MILITARY BIRTHDAY BALL. MIDSHIPMEN MENDOZA'S LEADERSHIP FROM THE FRONT, SHARP EXECUTION, AND ATTENTION TO DETAIL REFLECT GREAT CREDIT UPON HIMSELF AND ARE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST STANDARDS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
Midshipman Platoon Sergeant
FOR PROFESSIONAL ACHIEVEMENT WHILE SERVING AS THE PLATOON SERGEANT FOR SECOND PLATOON , PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY, NAVAL RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS, HOUSTON CONSORTIUM FROM JANUARY TO MAY 2016. PLATOON SERGEANT JAIME PERFORMED HIS DUTIES IN AN EXEMPLARY AND HIGHLY PROFESSIONAL MANNER. HE ASSISTED IN THE PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT AND EDUCATION OF THE JUNIOR MIDSHIPMEN NOT ONLY IN HIS PLATOON BUT IN THE COMPANY AS WELL. HIS PROFESSIONAL KNOWLEDGE COUPLED WITH HIS MANAGERIAL SKILLS ALLOWED HIM TO DIRECT HIS PLATOON IN THE FLAWLESS EXECUTION OF ALL COMPANY TRAINING EVOLUTIONS. PLATOON SERGEANT JAIME'S EFFORTS IN EMPHASIZING AND ENCOURAGING TUTORING RESULTED IN THE IMPROVED ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE OF THOSE IN HIS CHARGE. HIS EXCEPTIONAL ABILITY, UNRELENTING PERSEVERANCE, AND LOYAL DEVOTION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HIMSELF AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.
SAPR Instructor
FOR MERITORIOUS SERVICE WHILE SERVING AS AN INSTRUCTOR AND SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE COORDINATOR, TRAINING COMMAND, MARINE CORPS DETACHMENT, KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, BILOXI MISSISSIPPI FROM JULY 2013 TO JULY 2014. STAFF SERGEANT RANGELVENTURA WAS INSTRUMENTAL IN THE SUCCESSFUL TRAINING OF 88 NAVY AND MARINE CORPS PERSONNEL BY PROVIDING OVER 1285 HOURS OF CLASSROOM INSTRUCTION RESULTING IN A 94.32 PERCENT GRADE POINT AVERAGE AND A ZERO PERCENT ATTRITION RATE. AS THE SEXUAL ASSAULT PREVENTION AND RESPONSE COORDINATOR, HER KEEN MANAGERIAL SKILLS AND RELENTLESS EFFORTS LED TO ZERO DISCREPANCIES DURING THE COMMANDING GENERAL'S FUNCTIONAL AREA INSPECTION. STAFF SERGEANT RANGELVENTURA'S ACCOMPLISHMENTS, PERSEVERANCE, AND DEVOTION TO DUTY REFLECTED CREDIT UPON HERSELF AND WERE IN KEEPING WITH THE HIGHEST TRADITIONS OF THE MARINE CORPS AND THE UNITED STATES NAVAL SERVICE.