WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE AN HONORARY MARINE? EXPLORING THE PROCESS
Some people say that only those in uniform can be involved in action, but did you know that some civilians are given the "honorary" title. However, those who want the title must prove themselves, and that is the same with every branch of the armed forces. If you want to be an honorary Marine, then you should list some of these essential details in your notes. This title is usually given only by the United States Marine Corps Commandant to people who have made an impact and contributions to the Marine Corps. Remember that this does not carry benefits or pay entitlements but will receive a title of respect, which is one of high honor in the civilian community.
According to their records, there have been no less than 100 honorary US Marines since 2014, ranging from ordinary civilians to well-known people such as photographer Joe Rosenthal, famous actor and philanthropist Chuck Norris, famous American sculptor Felix de Weldon, and American composer and conductor John Williams.
The Selection Process of Becoming Honorary US Marines
According to Marine Corps Order 5060.19B, only the officers-in-charge, commanding generals, retired general officers, and commanding officers are authorized to nominate individuals they consider deserving to carry the title of Honorary Marine. This meticulous decision process usually lasts 45 days after the nomination is submitted.
This high honor recognizes civilians who showed distinguished, noteworthy support or service to the Marine Corps. Since the title is being earned, the award is not given to foster or reward friendships. The basis will purely depend on what the individual has done that surpasses the norm.
Other criteria may also include a terminally ill child who qualifies as a unique link to the Marines or military, deceased individuals whose contributions or actions have earned such honor to the Marine Corps, and individuals who provided extraordinary service are just some of the list that the officers will consider.
Once the selection process for Honorary Marine is done, all nominations will be endorsed by a general officer and the Commandant of the Marine Corps will be the one to designate an individual for the Honorary US Marines. A general officer will give a formal presentation of the award.
The Latest Woman to Receive an Honorary Marine Title
Almost all of the people who received this civilian honor are males, but now, there are a total of 11 women who received this prestigious award.
On March 6, 2020, during a Marine Corps Base Hawaii ceremony, Mrs. Barbara Mathews, a Hawaiian-based videographer, earned her spot as an Honorary US Marine. She dedicated her time, money, and talent for the last ten years to capture videos and photos of hundreds of Marine Corps ceremonies, including notable events and memorials around the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. She even featured the families of the Marines in her works, which is often a rare opportunity to have a glimpse of the triumphs and trials of their loved ones.
Mathews even took her support a few steps further by joining the 2nd Battalion, 3rd Marine Regiment, during their 2005 deployment in Afghanistan. This was to gain raw first-hand experience and capture the stories of the Marine Corps in a more vivid way.
During her awarding, Colonel James Donnellan recalled that Mathews did not even consider the risks involved in joining the Battalion. She was around 40 years old at that time but still had the passion and energy of a junior Marine. There was an option for her to stay at the Jalalabad Forward Operating Base, but she opted to travel to as many areas as possible with the troops to show her support.
With her efforts, Mathews captured, edited, and produced over 5,700 video clips and 25,500 images. Aside from the Marine Corps, the families of the troops also benefited from her works, wherein she featured some of the rare moments of their loved ones. This prompted her automatic nomination and eventually earning a spot to be an Honorary Marine.
The title Honorary US Marines is given to strengthen the special connection between civilians and the Marine Corps. This way, the works and efforts of individuals in the community are recognized. To continue this good bond, the organization will honor those notable people so that their efforts and sacrifices will not go to waste.
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