U.S. Marine Corps Master Gunnery Sgt. Gregory Callier (ret.), the communications chief with III Marine Expeditionary Force, participates in the ‘Old Glory’ tradition during his retirement ceremony on Camp Hansen, Okinawa, Japan, May 5, 2021. Callier enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1991 and served four tours in Okinawa throughout his 30-year career. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Lance Cpl. Natalie Greenwood)

“I never thought I’d join the Marine Corps. It was never even a thought that crossed my mind. Come my sophomore year of high school, my brother was a senior, and he joined the Marine Corps. My mom and dad did not want him to join. Then for me, seeing him join, that was my inspiration and my competition.

My dad passed away a few years ago, and that was the hardest thing for me because he was my biggest supporter. He grew up in the Vietnam era and didn’t get drafted because he was an only son and needed to carry on the family name. My dad wore a Marine Corps hat or shirt every day until his dying day. When I was leaving to come out here, it was the first time I’ve ever seen him cry. I didn’t know at the time that would be the last time I would talk to him alive. In my 30 years-- I can tell you this-- you don’t get here by yourself. I have so many people to thank: my wife, my kids, my mom, my grandkids, and my Lord and Savior. Without them I would not be standing here today.”