ALBANY, Ga. - During a morning ceremony, Maj. Gen. John J. Broadmeadow assumed command of Marine Corps Logistics Command July 26 in front of a crowd of 200 Marines, Sailors, civilian-Marines and distinguished guests from the local community.
The ceremony began with the ringing of the USS Nassau’s bell, which is entrusted to the command. Upon the conclusion of morning colors, Broadmeadow was welcomed and honored in ceremonial fashion by Marines in formation.
“I’m very proud to be here,” Broadmeadow said. “For a Marine logistician, this is the epitome because it is the senior logistics command of the Marine Corps.”
Broadmeadow began his career upon graduating from Norwich University in Vermont and receiving his commission in 1983. Since, he has served in various commands and billets around the Marine Corps.
“I’ve watched this command for a long time,” he said. “Not only has this command been an important part of the logistics community for a long time, but it’s shown an adaptability of combat focus that I think is essential.”
Some notable accomplishments include his participation in Operation Restore Hope in Somalia, as well as operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom in support of the Global War on Terror.
Broadmeadow arrives in Albany after departing Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., as the commanding general of both 1st Marine Logistics Group and 1st Marine Expeditionary Brigade, to lead MCLC and provide continued support to the warfighter abroad.
“As we shift away from sustained combat operations in Iraq and Afghanistan and get back into the business of being America’s force in readiness, the Marine Corps is going to need Marine Corps Logistics Command to support those warfighters in a new way,” he said.
In a fiscally austere command climate, Broadmeadow vows to continue the support operations of MCLC to ensure readiness.
“Despite what happens with the fiscal environment of this country, the Marine Corps will always be ready when our nation is least ready, in large part because of the work that gets done at this command,” Broadmeadow said.
After the newly-assumed commanding general finished his remarks, his wife, Karen, was presented flowers from the command as a gesture to welcome her presence and support with open arms.