1st Marine Logistics Group bids farewell to senior leader

Photo By Cpl. Jacob A. Singsank | Brig. Gen. Robert R. Ruark, former 1st Marine Logistics Group commanding general, hands Sgt. Maj. Steven J. Lara, 48, from Coolidge, Ariz., former sergeant major of 1st MLG, his retirement warrant during a ceremony here, May 21.  

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, CA, UNITED STATES

05.21.2010

Story by Cpl. Jacob A. Singsank 

1st Marine Logistics Group

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. – Friends, family members and fellow Ma¬rines and sailors joined Sgt. Maj. Steven J. Lara, former sergeant major of 1st Marine Logistics Group, to honor and celebrate his retirement after 30 years of faithful service to the Marine Corps and United States during a ceremony here, May 21.

Brig. Gen. Robert R. Ruark, former 1st MLG commanding general, oversaw the ceremony for Lara, 48, from Coolidge, Ariz. During the retirement celebra¬tion, Ruark spoke of his previous deployment and fond memories shared with Lara in garrison and in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.

"It was an honor to serve with [Lara] in Iraq and here at Camp

Pendleton with 1st MLG," said Ruark. "It's because of that I owe [Lara] a debt of thanks."

Lara conducted numerous combat deployments during his career, with his last one as the group sergeant major with 1st MLG Forward Headquarters el¬ement at Al Taqaddum, Iraq in 2008 and 2009.

"To the Marines of 1st Marine Logistics Groups, your work and efforts this week have been very much appreciated," said Lara. "I want you to know that the cere¬mony you executed today will be cherished by me and family for many years to come."

After three decades in the Ma¬rine Corps, Lara will depart the Marine Corps leaving a posi¬tive impact that will continue to inspire Marines and sailors for years to follow.

• Date Taken: 05.21.2010
• Date Posted: 05.25.2010 14:27
• Story ID: 50257
• Location: MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, CA, US