31st MEU Commanding Officer Resignation

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, JAPAN

05.19.2014

Courtesy Story

III Marine Expeditionary Force   

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, Japan - Effective May 20, 2014, Lt. Gen. John Wissler, commanding general, III Marine Expeditionary Force, has accepted the request for early and immediate termination of command of 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit (MEU) from Col. John E. Merna.

Merna, a combat veteran and a widely respected leader, recognized his incompatibility to continue leading the 31st MEU, accepted responsibility and accountability for his actions, and immediately tendered a letter requesting termination of his command authority and responsibility.

Wissler's decision was based on the initial results of a preliminary inquiry and command climate survey within the 31st MEU Command Element. The preliminary inquiry substantiated the initial allegations and indicated a pattern of intemperate behavior and language by the commanding officer which created a hostile work environment in the 31st MEU headquarters. Wissler has lost trust and confidence in Merna's ability to effectively continue in command and has endorsed Merna's acceptance of responsibility and his request to immediately relinquish command. Wissler has appointed the 31st MEU Executive Officer, Lt. Col. G. Troy Roesti, as interim commander.

Wissler will make a final determination on any additional appropriate actions based upon a detailed review of the completed preliminary inquiry and associated command climate survey.

The Marine Corps holds all Marines, but especially commanders, responsible and accountable for their actions and the actions of those they lead, and is committed to maintaining complete accountability and responsibility by commanders in upholding the highest standards of conduct at every level.

• Date Taken: 05.19.2014
• Date Posted: 05.19.2014 22:31
• Story ID: 130408
• Location: MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP S. D. BUTLER, OKINAWA, JP