Leiva passes H&HS torch to Deabreu

Photo By Sgt. Ned Johnson | Sgt. Maj. Nicholas Deabreu, incoming sergeant major of Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron, speaks with the squadron at a Post and Relief Ceremony at Marine Corps Air Station New River, Sept. 16. Deabreu challenged the marines of H&HS to give everything they have each day when they come to work.  

NEW RIVER, NC, UNITED STATES

09.16.2016

Courtesy Story

Marine Corps Installations East       

Sgt. Maj. Luis Leiva was relieved as the Headquarters and Headquarters Squadron sergeant major and Sgt. Maj. Nicholas Deabreu was posted as the new sergeant major during a Post and Relief ceremony on Marine Corps Air Station New River, Sept. 16.

Leiva, who will report as the sergeant major of 8th Engineer Support Battalion on Marine Corps Base Camp Lejeune, was instrumental in creating both a command sponsored Lance Corporal Seminar and Corporals’ Course at New River.

The battalion commander of H&HS, Lt. Col. Quentin Vaughn, spoke of Leiva’s impact on the squadron and the air station including his leadership style and how it turned the unit into a family.

After the ceremonial passing of the NCO sword, which represents the passing of authority, Leiva received a Meritorious Service Medal for his achievements during his tour with the squadron.

"It’s never been about me. It’s always been about the individuals I serve. People think the higher rank you are, the more people there are to serve you," said Leiva. "It’s the opposite of that. The higher you get the more people you are required to serve."

Leiva then thanked the many Marines in his charge who helped support him along the way as well as his superiors who guided him.

Deabreu, who was previously the Recruit Training Regiment sergeant major at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, thanked his guests for attending before challenging his Marines in formation.

"All I will ask of you is what I have asked of every Marine I’ve had, said Deabreu. "Give me everything you have every day when you come in."

• Date Taken: 09.16.2016
• Date Posted: 09.23.2016 09:16
• Story ID: 210399
• Location: NEW RIVER, NC, US