WASHINGTON -- Sgt. Maj. Eric J. Stockton relieved Sgt. Maj. Sylvestor D. Daniels of his post to become the 26th segeant major of Marine Barracks Washington during a relief and appointment ceremony here, April 14.
Stockton, a Boston native, who transferred from Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, explained how being selected to come to Marine Barracks 8th and I was an honor and a privilege.
“To the Marines and sailors that work at this illustrious post, I am honored to serve along side you,” Stockton said. “I will give you everything I have, that is the least I can do.”
Stockton went on to give thanks to his friends and family, as well as the Marines who had been forward deployed and now serve as the face of the Marine Corps.
For Daniels, a Jackson, Tenn. native, his dedication to duty while serving at MBW was acknowledged with a Legion of Merit presented to him by Col. Andrew H. Smith, the Barracks Commander.
“Sgt. Maj. Daniels, you are one of the finest Marines I’ve ever served with,” Smith said. “I know you’re going down to MCRD San Diego to do great things.”
Marine Barracks Washington has benefited from the 28 years of Marine Corps experience Daniels brought to the barracks, Smith said.
“When you think of the qualities a sergeant major should have, you think of mental and physical toughness, the ability to handle multiple tasks, and the ability to advise all ranks,” Smith said. “Those traits and many more are the traits of Sgt. Maj. Daniels who exceeded every one of those attributes.”
The ceremony included a concert by the United States Marine Corps Drum and Bugle Corps as well as ceremonial marchers from Companies A and B.
With Stockton in place as the new Marine Barracks Washington senior enlisted advisor, the ceremony concluded with the Commandant’s Own leading the pass and review by both of these exceptional sergeants major.
“I am truly honored to have been selected as the sergeant major of the 'Oldest Post' in the Corps,” Stockton said.