MARINE CORPS BASE QUANTICO, Va. – More than 50 civilian employees were recognized and awarded Jan. 22 during the Civilian Quarterly Awards Ceremony at The Clubs at Quantico. This included employees recognized for their years of service and dedication as well as those honored for their excellence during the 2025 4th Quarter and the 2025 civilian of the year.
In her opening remarks, U.S. Marine Corps Col. Jenny Colegate, commanding officer of MCB Quantico, highlighted the prominent role civilians played in preparing for the Secretary of War’s address to senior military leaders on Quantico in September, noting the value of their years of experience.
“You’re not just meeting the standard,” said Colegate, “but setting a new one.”
34 employees were recognized for reaching significant milestones in their federal service. Three employees reached 35 years of service and another for 40 years. The ceremony also included yearly awards from 2025, including the Senior Appropriated Funds Civilian of the Year Award, which Installation Protection Branch director Peter J. Russett took home for his role in planning the historical meeting here in September in which the President of the United States and Secretary of War met with all military generals and admirals and their senior enlisted advisors.
Russet was quick to recognize others as he accepted his award and reminded the audience that his departments success was only possible because of teamwork and strong coordination with other departments.
“Their dedication to this Base is absolute,” Russett said of his fellow civilians during his remarks, “…all the other branches on this base help us…to you guys, thank you very much.” For Sgt. Maj. Liam D. Williams, the sergeant major of MCB Quantico, this ceremony marked his first time presenting the awards. In his closing remarks, he shared how his lack of experience working with civilians on other installations had not prepared him for what Quantico’s civilians brought to the table.
“You are the glue that keeps this all together,” Williams told the civilians. “Your effect is felt all over the Marine Corps.”