MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. - Col. Jeffrey J. Johnson retired and relinquished command of the Marine Corps Engineer School to Col. Scott Baldwin during a change of command and retirement ceremony aboard Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, July 2.
Johnson served 24 years in the Marine Corps and served as the commanding officer of the Marine Corps Engineer School since 2012.
“I know I have some huge shoes to fill while I am here, and I know I have some mentorship here that I can tap into at any time,” said Baldwin, commanding officer of the Marine Corps Engineer School. “Now it’s up to us as instructors to treat every day as if it is a brand new day and tap into that energy these young Marines have when they come here and give them what they expect.”
Johnson deployed in support of Operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom.
“We are here to honor a wonderful Marine family who is departing our ranks after 24 years and to welcome another Marine family who is coming in to take over the engineer school,” said Brig. Gen. Edward D. Banta, commanding general of 2nd Marine Logistics Group. “You can rest assured that even though you’re leaving the Corps now, you never really leave it, because you have left your impression on tens of thousands of Marines. They are the next generation that is going to carry on your legacy.”
Johnson graduated from the University of Memphis in 1990 receiving his commission and earning a Bachelor’s degree in construction management. Throughout the ceremony, Johnson thanked friends and family in attendance for their continued support throughout his career and ensured the next generation will continue to carry the legacies of those that came before them, Marines always do.
“This is truly meant for the Marines who came before us,” said Johnson. “Marines, it has been my honor to serve you over the last 24 years.”
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