Mission: The Marine Corps Enlisted Aide Program enhances the effectiveness and efficiency of senior leadership by providing professional support in the management of social events, household duties, and administrative responsibilities. Through comprehensive training and adherence to the highest standards of conduct, Enlisted Aides enable commanders to focus on mission-critical priorities while promoting readiness and fostering a culture of service excellence.
The Marine Corps Enlisted Aide Program (MCEAP) is a selective, mission-essential program established by the Commandant of the Marine Corps to support General and Flag Officers (G/FOs in the execution of official military and representational duties. Enlisted Aides perform duties that directly support the Department of Defense’s representational mission and must always serve a valid military purpose. All support is executed in accordance with established authorities and policies, ensuring professional boundaries, accountability, and a clear line of authority between the General Officer and the Enlisted Aide.
The MCEAP is built on trust, discretion, and excellence. It is not a routine assignment; it is a position of responsibility. Marines selected for this program operate in highly visible environments and are expected to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, maturity, and conduct while representing the Marine Corps at the most senior levels.
Marines who successfully serve in the MCEAP return to the operating forces with refined leadership skills, increased confidence, and a heightened sense of responsibility to develop and mentor others. Marines selected for the program must be prepared to undergo a two week trial phase and an intensive 3-4 month training syllabus in 8th & I, Marine Barracks Washington, Washington, D.C.
Enlisted Aides must be capable of anticipating requirements, coordinating across multiple stakeholders, and executing tasks to exacting standards—often with minimal supervision. The role requires a Marine who can assess complex situations, apply sound judgment, and take decisive action while maintaining accountability and transparency. Success in this assignment depends on attention to detail, time management, and the ability to operate in fast-paced, high-visibility environments. Enlisted Aides are expected to represent the Marine Corps with confidence, professionalism, and respect in every interaction.
Because Enlisted Aides work in close proximity to senior leaders and frequently interact with distinguished guests, they must consistently demonstrate sound judgment and an understanding of professional boundaries. Trust is foundational to the program, and Enlisted Aides are expected to safeguard that trust through ethical conduct, reliability, and adherence to policy.
Marines in the program are expected to take ownership of their responsibilities, manage competing priorities, and maintain readiness while operating with a high degree of independence. Performance in the MCEAP reflects directly on the Marine, the supported General Officer, and the Marine Corps as a whole.
Who the Program Seeks
The Marine Corps Enlisted Aide Program seeks Marines who consistently exceed standards and are motivated by service, professionalism, and accountability. Ideal candidates are self-disciplined, adaptable, and capable of operating independently in complex environments. Marines considered for this assignment demonstrate integrity, emotional intelligence, and the ability to manage sensitive situations with discretion. They take pride in their work, understand the importance of details, and are committed to representing the Marine Corps with excellence.
• MCEAP Order (MCO 1306.18B W ADMIN CH-1)
• MARADMIN (Updated Version)
• Written Submission Letter (Statement of Purpose)
• Administrative Action Form
Prerequisites
Base, Station, and Operating Force Commanders shall use the following prerequisites to solicit volunteers and nominees:
- Applicant must be a food service specialist PMOS 3381.
- Applicant must be active duty Corporal through Staff Sergeant.
- Applicant must be within height/weight standards.
- Applicant must have a 1st class PFT/CFT.
- Applicant must be eligible for reenlistment.
- Applicant must be eligible to PCS.
- Applicant must be eligible for a Secret Clearance.
- Applicant must be PME complete in grade.
- Applicant must have a valid driver's license.
- Applicant must possess US citizenship and/or willing to relinquish dual citizenship, if applicable.
- Applicant must have no legal matters pending, adverse fitness reports or derogatory paperwork in grade.
- Command Nominations. All nominations will be forwarded and endorsed by the first O-7 level or above in the Marines' chain of command.
- Commanders shall submit nomination packages via email to the MCEAP Program Manager, CIV Brian K. Brazil, at brian.brazil@usmc.mil and MCEAP SNCOIC Gunnery Sergeant Blanquivett Cuz at blanquivett.cuz@usmc.mil. Packages must be received at DC I&L within 90 days of the nominees initial submission. Subsequent submission timelines will be promulgated via separate correspondence based on MCEAP recruitment requirements.
Package Requirements
Nomination packages will consist of and be submitted in of the following order:
- Administrative Action Form NAVMC 10274 and Command Endorsements
- Professional Biography.
- Statement of purpose explaining why you are an ideal candidate for MCEAP. Typed, double spaced, 12pt font and no longer than one page. Include future career plans, and any culinary experience.
- Letter of Recommendation from G-4 Food Technician
- Current Promotion Photo in Service Charlies.
- Current BIR/BTR.
- Service Pages 3,11,12, if applicable.
- Security Clearance Letter.
- Independent Duty Screening Checklist.
- Commanding Officer's Financial Worksheet.
- PME Certificates and Culinary Certifications, if applicable
References
• DODI 1315.09
• SECNAVINST 1306.2E
• SECNAVINST 7042.7L ORF
• CJCSI 1331.01E