NORFOLK, Va. –The Joint Enabling Capabilities Command (JECC) Marine Corps Detachment (MARDET) welcomed a new leader during a change of command ceremony on January 9, 2025.
Col. John M. “Mitch” Douglass assumed command from Col. Guillermo “Rosie” Rosales, Jr., with Brig. Gen. Michael McWilliams, JECC Commander, presiding over the time-honored tradition. The ceremony marks the formal transfer of authority and responsibility for the detachment.
The JECC MARDET consists of Marine Corps planners who integrate into the Joint Planning Support Element (JPSE), a subordinate unit to the JECC. In this role, they provide critical operational expertise to joint planning teams that support Combatant Command requirements across the globe.
McWilliams praised Rosales’s 18-month tenure, highlighting his significant contributions to the JECC’s global mission. Under Rosales’s leadership, the MARDET’s readiness surged from 55% to a consistent 95%. He also led a successful recruiting initiative that increased the Marine Corps Reserve capacity in Tampa by 250% and is on track to double the size of the JECC MARDET.
“It is a remarkable 18 months that you’ve had at the helm of the Marine Detachment,” said McWilliams. “Thank you for your leadership and your dedication and devotion.”
McWilliams also noted Rosales’s operational leadership, including leading planning efforts in the U.S. European Command area of operations and spearheading the initial team for Operation Southern Spear at U.S. Southern Command, which developed the foundational plan for the ongoing mission. In recognition of his service, Rosales was awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal.
During his farewell remarks, Rosales, who has been selected for promotion to Brigadier General, credited the Marines he led.
"You all make me look good," Rosales said. "The recognition comes from the work that everybody else does. They make us look good."
The incoming commander, Col. Douglass, is returning to the JECC, having served there previously. McWilliams welcomed him back, stating Douglass is “the right officer to take the helm.”
In his brief remarks, Douglass expressed his eagerness to lead the detachment and build on the foundation laid by his predecessor.
“The structures you built and the team you’ve put in place has really enabled this group to take things to the next level and get ready for the fight,” Douglass said to Rosales. “I am absolutely excited to be able to jump into these very big shoes and run to the next thing.”
The ceremony concluded with the playing of the Marines’ Hymn, formally ushering in the next chapter of leadership for the JECC Marine Corps Detachment.
| Date Taken: | 01.09.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 03.05.2026 13:34 |
| Story ID: | 559453 |
| Location: | NORFOLK, VIRGINIA, US |
| Web Views: | 17 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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