As a four-star general — served as the 34th Commandant of the Marine Corps.
Previous high level assignments included President of the Service’s University, commander of the 1st Marine Division, and commander of 90,000 US / UK forces during the 2003 invasion of Iraq. Prior to becoming the Commandant, he was the senior operations officer for the U.S. military.
As Commandant, served as the senior uniformed Marine responsible for organizing, training, and equipping over 250,000 active duty, reserve, and civilian personnel in the US and overseas. Oversaw the growth of 27,000 additional personnel, major military construction efforts at bases, and the integration of multiple next-generation weapons systems into the inventory. Initiated new programs for the care of wounded warriors and brought Marine Corps family programs onto a war-time footing. Managed a USMC annual budget on the order of $40 Billion.
As a member of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, functioned as military advisor to the Secretary of Defense, National Security Council, and the President. Retired from active duty after 40 years of commissioned service in late 2010.
Attended Southeast Missouri University; the Seminar XXI M.I.T. Fellowship Program, and the JFK School of Government, Harvard University, Seminar of International Relations.
His post-government service ventures include membership on Textron’s Board of Directors, Colt Firearm’s Board of Advisors and as adjunct faculty member of Georgetown University.
Married to Annette Conway for 42 years. They have three children: two sons serving as majors in the Marine Corps, and a daughter, married to a Marine major.
In excellent health — hobbies include fishing, hunting, golfing, kayaking, and grandchildren.