CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. - Maj. Gen. Anthony L. Jackson relinquished command of Marine Corps Installations West to Brig. Gen. Vincent A. Coglianese during a change of command ceremony at Camp Pendleton, Calif., Nov. 18.
Jackson assumed command in September 2009, and after 36 years of honorable service will retire from the Marine Corps as the highest- ranking African-Americans in the Marine Corps.
Under Jackson’s command, MCI-West has made vast developments to base infrastructure, training facilities and numerous energy efficiency projects such as the $24.6 million Wounded Warrior Battalion-West barracks. The project also received the title of LEED Platinum by the U.S. Green Building Council; the first time it has ever been given to the Marine Corps.
Jackson also received a Distinguished Service Medal and was recognized in a letter by President Barack Obama for his leadership.
Coglianese now serves as commanding general of MCI-West after leaving his position as the Deputy Director for Operations, J-3, Joint Staff at the Pentagon.
“My family and I have been blown away by the warmth and the welcome given to us by the Jacksons and those of Marine Corps Installation-West. I’m going to try and maintain the successes [you have] had and reinforce them,” said Coglianese, referring to the many accomplishments Jackson has made on base. “On behalf of the Marine Corps you have a great reputation amongst all ranks, thank you so much.”