Passing the torch

Photo By Lance Cpl. Dangelo Yanez | Newly appointed sergeant major of 4th Marine Regiment, Sgt. Maj. Jose H. Molina, gives remarks, during a relief and appointment ceremony at Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 16, 2019. During the ceremony, Leiva transferred leadership to Sgt. Maj. Jose H. Molina, who was selected as the new 4th Marine Regiment sergeant major. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. D’Angelo Yanez)  

CAMP SCHWAB, OKINAWA, JAPAN

08.16.2019

Story by Lance Cpl. Dangelo Yanez 

3rd Marine Division     

CAMP SCHWAB, Japan – U.S. Marines and sailors with 4th Marine Regiment welcome U.S. Marine Sgt. Maj. Jose H. Molina during a relief and appointment ceremony aboard Camp Schwab, Okinawa, Japan, Aug. 16, 2019.

Sgt. Maj. Luis M. Leiva, the outgoing sergeant major for 4th Marine Regiment, turned the Sword of Office over to Molina, the incoming sergeant major.

During his speech, U.S. Marine Col. Jason Perry, the commanding officer of 4th Marine Regiment, spoke about the expectations of a sergeant major and about how Leiva conducted himself while serving as sergeant major. He described Leiva as a command’s ideal sergeant major.

“4th Regiment is in very good hands,” said Perry. “[Molina] is a trusted adviser, a very trusted adviser. He defends our traditions and honor. He had his pulse on the units long before he arrived. So when he got here, he already knew the culture.”

According to Molina, the role of being a senior enlisted advisor is very important and revolves around setting the example for Marines to follow.

“The unknown is a fear you have to encounter,” said Molina. “It feels good that there is someone at [4th Marine Regiment] who is going to guide you every step of the way.”

• Date Taken: 08.16.2019
• Date Posted: 08.16.2019 08:26
• Story ID: 336149
• Location: CAMP SCHWAB, OKINAWA, JP