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MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, Hawaii -- U.S. Marine Corps Sgt. David Bronston and Sgt. Corey Handy, both with 3rd Littoral Anti-Air Battalion, 3rd Marine Littoral Regiment, became the first Marines assigned to 3rd LAAB to complete the U.S. Coast Guard Leadership and Management School at U.S. Coast Guard Air Station Barbers Point, Hawaii, Jan. 30, 2026.
The U.S. Coast Guard Leadership and Management School (LAMS) is a professional military education (PME) course designed to prepare Second-Class Petty Officers for advancement to the rank of First-Class Petty Officer. By enhancing supervisory skills, the program aims to equip graduates for the increased responsibilities associated with their higher rank. Although LAMS is not typically a joint service course, Bronston and Handy were granted a unique opportunity to attend after their leadership secured two available seats.
As the first Marines to participate in the program, Handy reflected on the significance of the event, “They told us we were going to be the first ones to do it,” Handy said. “It was a really good feeling knowing that we were going to be the first ones to hang out with the Coast Guard, learn from them, teach them, and set the example for the Marine Corps.”
The curriculum introduced the Marines to new communication models, specifically the DiSC model a personality framework that categorizes behavior into four primary styles. Handy noted the novelty of this approach, stating, “LAMS really stripped-down communication skills and how to deal with certain individuals in certain circumstances. We got to do the DiSC assessment, which is not given in the military all around, especially not in the Marine corps. We were really surprised by that.”
Bronston observed a distinct difference between LAMS and traditional Marine Corps PMEs, such as the Corporals Course or Sergeants School, which often focus on tactical planning and small-unit operations. Bronston explained, “In my experience with Marine Corps PME's, it’s a lot more observation based. You work through being a squad leader and a team element in a tactical environment, but a lot of it is observing the material and the instructors,” said Bronston. “In LAMS, everything is a lot more laid out, there’s different behavior models presented, and the practical application focused on the effects of communication.”
Beyond the academic instruction, the joint environment provided a valuable networking and cultural exchange opportunity. The Marines shared Marine Corps traditions and knowledge with the Coast Guardsmen while learning about the history and terminology of their sister service. Bronston remarked, “They all wanted to learn about us and what we do, our traditions, knowledge and experience in the Marine Corps. They taught us about their traditions, history and lingo,” Bronston continued. “We, at that point, became the face of the Marine Corps for those Coast Guardsmen.”
Reflecting on the lasting impact of the course, Handy expressed hope that joint PME participation becomes a growing trend. He stated, “I’m really honored to be able to go with Sgt. Bronston and be the first Marines to get this opportunity, Hopefully this becomes a trend within the Marine Corps to allow Marines to go to Coast Guard, Air Force or even Army PMEs, not only for that exposure to our sister services, but to learn new communication and networking skills.”
Sgt. Bronston and Sgt. Handy reflected on their character, work ethic and devotion to interoperability while serving with 3rd LAAB, expressing gratitude for being recognized by U.S. Coast Guard leadership for their participation and representation of the U.S. Marine Corps. They set the standard for Marines attending subsequent U.S. Coast Guard courses and will continue to strive for success by implementing the tools learned from the Leadership and Management School.
| Date Taken: | 02.18.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 04.07.2026 17:28 |
| Story ID: | 561683 |
| Location: | MARINE CORPS BASE HAWAII, HAWAII, US |
| Web Views: | 25 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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