Former Camp Pendleton Marine named Marine Corps’ 19th sergeant major, the highest enlisted rank

Sergeant Maj. Troy E. Black, who served with 1st Marine Logistics Group at Camp Pendleton, will become the Marine Corps’ 19th sergeant major.

Black, who currently serves as sergeant major of Manpower and Reserve Affairs, will replace Sgt. Maj. Ronald L. Green during a ceremony this summer, the Marine Corps announced on Thursday, April 25.

Green will retire after that ceremony with 35 years of service.

The post of Sergeant Major of the Marine Corps was established in 1957 as the senior enlisted adviser to the Commandant. The position is selected by the Commandant and  appointees typically serve four-year terms.

Black enlisted in 1988 and completed boot camp at Marine Corps Recruit Depot Parris Island, S.C. He has served as Sergeant Major of Officer Candidates School, the 11th Marine Expeditionary Unit, and 1st Marine Logistics Group.

He deployed numerous times including serving in Operation Desert Storm/Desert Shield, Operation Iraqi Freedom, and Operation Enduring Freedom. He also deployed with several Marine Expeditionary Units as well as Fleet Anti-Terrorism Security Team Company deployments.

His personal awards include the Legion of Merit with Gold Star, Bronze Star with Combat Distinguishing Device, Meritorious Service Medal with two Gold Stars, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal with Combat Distinguishing Device and three Gold Stars, Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Gold Starn and the Combat Action Ribbon with two Gold Stars.