New CLR-1 sergeant major sets standards for junior Marines

1st Marine Logistics Group
Story by Cpl. Jennifer Pirante

Date: 03.08.2012
Posted: 03.12.2012 13:26
News ID: 85108
New CLR-1 sergeant major sets standards for junior Marines

CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. — Since he assumed his post as sergeant major of Combat Logistics Regiment 1, 1st Marine Logistics Group, here, Jan. 21, Sgt. Maj. Juan Diaz wasted no time making sure his Marines understand what he expects as it pertains to discipline, conduct, standards and morale.

To reach out to the junior Marines of General Support Motor Transport Company, CLR-1, 1st MLG, Diaz held a brief at the GSMT lot at Camp Pendleton, Calif., March 8.

His intent was to get to know, advise and mentor the junior Marines about doing the right thing at all times, making wise decisions and exhibiting a sense of military pride in their appearance, even when in civilian attire. To accomplish this, Diaz encouraged his Marines to help one another.

“I need you to look out for one another,” Diaz said. “When someone is about to do something unwise, I need you to have the courage to ask that person, ‘Hey, what the heck are you doing?”

Diaz also encouraged his Marines to think ahead as they carry themselves through their military career, both professionally and academically.

“We push you, we want you to go to school and invest in your future,” Diaz said. “I need you to be smart in how you do that.”

Diaz shared stories from his own life experience and emphasized most that his leadership extends beyond delegating tasks and giving orders. As a sergeant major of Marines, Diaz makes sure to uphold morale and insure his Marines understand their common bond.

“Believe me when I tell you I care about you,” Diaz said. “I care about you because we have one common thing: We’re devil dogs.”
Lance Cpl. Amy Dias, motor vehicle operator, GSMT, CLR-1, 1st MLG said Diaz seemed like a sergeant major who brings a great sense of leadership backed by a wealth of experience.

“I thought he was very motivating,” Dias said. “I’ve never had a sergeant major come out, sit with his Marines, open up to us and tell us a little bit about himself.”

As a new Marine coming to a new unit, Dias said she felt confident knowing what was expected of her and her fellow Marines. She also expressed confidence in her chain-of-command and the improvements that are still to come.

“I think he has a lot to bring to this unit,” Dias said. “He’s good to go.”