CAMP LEATHERNECK, Afghanistan – A Marine born and raised in India who came to the United States when he was 15 was combat meritoriously promoted to staff sergeant at Camp Leatherneck, Afghanistan, Jan. 30.
Staff Sgt. Jacob Gill, platoon sergeant, General Support Motor Transport Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 15 (Forward), 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward), was living with his family in India until 1998 when they moved to Indianapolis, Ind, to live near his grandparents. He enlisted in the Marine Corps in August 2002 and attended recruit training at Marine Corps Recruit Depot San Diego. His decision to join the military stemmed from his desire to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps who served in the Indian army for 26 years.
“The Marine Corps was the service that met the standards I was looking for,” said Gill, 28. “I wanted the discipline, leadership and everything the Marine Corps has to offer.”
“Staff Sgt. Gill defines the reasoning behind our Corps having combat meritorious promotions,” said 1st Sgt. Adam E. Fraser, company first sergeant, GSMT company, CLR-15 (FWD), 1st MLG (FWD). “Not only has this Marine displayed an exceptional track record of proven success throughout all his vast combat experience, both current and prior, but he also has the instinctive abilities and actions to perform in a capacity within the operating forces achieving and influencing pristine results for any unit.”
This is not the first time Gill has been singled-out for recognition by his unit leadership.
In 2009, Gill was nominated for a staff sergeant combat meritorious board, in which he placed fourth – there were only two available spaces. Again in 2009, Gill was nominated for a board and placed third, but there were only two spots for promotion.
It wasn’t until 2011, when he was nominated for a third time, that he won the Marine Expeditionary Force-level board.
“I was nervous because there are a lot of talented, stellar sergeants that I was competing against,” said Gill. “I felt honored being selected.”
Gill plans to lead Marines and serve his country with honor for the long haul, he said.
“I am doing at least 20 years,” said Gill. “My plan is to serve as long as the Marine Corps will allow me.”
Accomplishing this milestone was a proud moment in his military career, he said.
“The feeling of knowing I accomplished something that not many have done, especially where I come from, was a great feeling,” said Gill.