2nd Marine Logistics Group Receives General Friedrich von Steuben
MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP LEJEUNE, N.C. – In recognition of its performance during the 2026 Comprehensive Command Inspection, 2nd Marine Logistics Group was presented the 2026 General Friedrich von Steuben Superior Unit Performance Award during the 2026 Inspector General of the Marine Corps Training Symposium at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Virginia, Aug. 25, 2026.
Administered by the inspector general of the Marine Corps, the General Friedrich von Steuben Award annually recognizes the Marine Corps unit that demonstrates superior efficiency, organizational integrity, and operational readiness. During the 2026 Comprehensive Command Inspection, 2nd MLG earned a Tier I rating, signifying 90% or more completion of inspection requirements and overall compliance across 42 evaluated functional areas.
U.S. Marine Corps Lt. Col. Robert Coplen, 2nd MLG command inspector general; Matthew Pinardi, deputy command inspector general; and Master Sgt. Maria Starr, command inspector general chief, accepted the award on behalf of the 2nd MLG Inspector General team.
“Winning the award illustrates the standards of excellence within the MLG, ,” said Pinardi. “That excellence exhibited by superior performance in the inspection conducted by IGMC translates into 2nd MLG mission readiness. The teamwork and professionalism, which the Marines exemplified, clearly demonstrates the MLG’s ability to accomplish any mission they are tasked with, no matter how challenging.”
The comprehensive command inspection is an IGMC-led assessment which evaluates key functional areas across all major commands to assess compliance with applicable policies, procedures, regulations, and orders. This is done every three years to assess the overall thoroughness and effectiveness of the Commanding General’s Inspection Program.
“The Commanding General’s Inspection Program forms the foundation of basic unit readiness,” said Coplen. “The inspection covers a spectrum of areas ranging from unit training requirements such as [Marine Corps Martial Arts Program] and water survival; administrative actions like military awards and request mast; to general topics including physical security and antiterrorism.”
Coplen spoke in depth about how the recognition was well deserved, “People performed outside of their comfort zone and enabled the inspection to proceed, and they did this while displaying and achieving excellence. It is a huge achievement to win such a prestigious award. It reflects the dedication and organization of the IG team and the standards maintained by 2nd MLG units.”
The intent of the 2nd MLG command inspector general team is to improve accountability, integrity, efficiency, and effectiveness throughout 2nd MLG units. In addition to leading the unit’s CGIP, the team handles complaints and requests mast, working with units to assign cases, monitor progression, and complete close-out requirements to effectively provide a comprehensive review of matters and achieve a resolution.
When asked about advice for future units going through a comprehensive command inspection, Pinardi said, “Speak with other units recently inspected; take their lessons learned from the experience and apply them appropriately. The CIG community within II [Marine Expeditionary Force] has open lines of communication, which allows us to share trends and lessons learned.”
The 2nd MLG command inspector general team’s superior performance reflects its vital role in maintaining mission readiness and supporting Marines and Sailors across the force. Their commitment to accountability, effectiveness, and service strengthens the command and ensures its people remain ready to accomplish the mission.
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